Objective:It is believed that opium, as a narcotic substance, may have protective effects against various disorders such as cardiovascular diseases. The association between opium use and the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in patients undergoing angiography was assessed in this study. Materials and Methods:The present descriptive-analytical study was conducted on patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD) who underwent angiography at Razi Hospital, Birjand, Iran from June 2018 to November 2020. Participants were considered into two groups: Addicted (i.e. opium users) and non-opium users. Demographic information, medical history, history of opium use, and the SYNTAX score were collected. Results:A total of 2,759 individuals with a mean age of 60.12 ± 18.12 years (ranging from 18 to 94 years) were included. Among the participants, 59.4% were male, with 627 identified as opium users and 2,132 as non-users. The opium user group exhibited significantly lower body mass index (BMI), and frequency of diabetes mellitus and hypertension compared to the non-opium user group (p<0.001). Conversely, the incidence of stenosis ≥50%, moderate SYNTAX score, and MACE incidence were remarkably higher among opium users compared to non-users (p<0.01 to p<0.001). Logistic regression analyses indicated a significant relationship between age, SYNTAX score, prior percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and opium use with cardiovascular procedures. Conclusion:These results indicate that opium use is associated with increased stenosis and SYNTAX score, as well as a higher incidence of myocardial infarction and PCI, thereby increasing the odds ratio for cardiovascular events.
Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of ginger supplementation on treatment responses in children with oligoarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (oligo-JIA). Materials and Methods: A total of forty children between the ages of 6 and 16 years with oligo-JIA were randomly assigned to receive either a ginger capsule (containing 250 mg of powdered Zingiber officinale rhizomes) or a placebo twice daily for three months, along with standard treatment. The response to therapy was measured using the American College of Rheumatology Pediatric 30, 50, 70, and 90 response criteria (ACR-Pedi 30, 50, 70, and 90) after three months of supplementation. Results: ACR-Pedi 30, 50, 70, and 90 responses were significantly higher among those receiving ginger supplement (p<0.001, p<0.001, p<0.001, and p=0.001, respectively). Conclusion: In this study, ginger supplementation improved ACR-Pedi 30, 50, 70 and 90 responses in pediatric patients with oligo-JIA. Given its safety profile and anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, ginger supplementation may enhance therapeutic responses in this clinical setting. However, due to certain limitations within our study, further research is essential to confirm these promising findings.
Objective: Patients with prediabetes are at a higher risk of cardiometabolic diseases. There has been growing attention to the role of phytochemicals and nutraceuticals against prediabetes. Previous research supports the efficacy of curcumin in controlling blood glucose level in diabetes but its effect on prediabetes has not been adequately studied. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of curcumin and piperine on prediabetes. Materials and Methods: This triple-blind, randomized controlled trial was performed on patients with prediabetes. The intervention group (n=34) received curcumin + piperine tablets (containing 500 mg curcumin plus 5 mg piperine), while the control group (n=34) used placebo for three months. Before and after three months, fasting blood glucose (FBG), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), HOMA-IR, C-reactive protein (CRP), insulin, and anthropometric indices were assessed. The measurements were analyzed using SPSS software. Results: The mean age of participants was 48.4±10.82 years, and 55.8% were females. After the intervention, FBG and HbA1c did not differ significantly between the groups. After 3 months, CRP was significantly reduced in the curcumin + piperine group (p=0.01), while the insulin level increased significantly (p=0.03). After adjustment for CRP and weight at baseline, the difference in changes in insulin, HOMA-IR, and CRP levels between the two groups disappeared. Moreover, there were no changes in anthropometric indices in either group during the study period. Conclusion: Our study revealed that the combination of curcumin and piperine had no significant impact on glycemic indices in patients with prediabetes. Evaluation of the precise effect of this combination on prediabetes requires more clinical trials with varying dosages and durations.
Objective: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the proliferation of prostatic cells and the growth of the prostate gland in elderly men. Oils that are rich in free fatty acids have been reported to be potentially effective in treating BPH. In the present study, we investigated the effect of rice bran oil (RO) on the treatment of testosterone enanthate (TE)-induced experimental BPH in male Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: An animal model of BPH was established by subcutaneous administration of TE to Wistar rats for 28 days. RO was administered by oral gavage daily before TE/corn oil injection at a dose of 400 and 800 mg/kg body weight. All the rats were sacrificed at the end of the experiment and we measured prostate index (PI), histological changes, and activities of antioxidant enzymes. Moreover, we assessed the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the serum. Results: Our findings indicate that RO significantly inhibited the development of BPH in experimental rats, reduced PI (p<0.0001), decreased PSA in serum (p<0.01), increased antioxidant enzyme activities (Glutatione (GSH), super oxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT); p<0.0001), and decreased concentration of oxidative stress biomarkers advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), and nitric oxide (NO) (p<0.0001) compared to positive controls. Hematoxylin & Eosin staining demonstrated that RO decreased pathological changes in the prostate of experimental animals. The treatment effect of RO was better exhibited in rats receiving RO at high dose. Conclusion: These results suggest that RO may be used as a therapeutic agent for BPH as oral administration of RO significantly halted the disease progression via anti-proliferative, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activity.
Objective:This preliminary pilot study aimed to evaluate how oatmeal and oxygen-ozone (O2-O3) administrations after intense exercise affect the NRF2 pathway, a key regulator of antioxidant responses. Materials and Methods:A single-blind, repeated-measures design was conducted with ten participants (ages 20-36, body mass index<30 kg/m²) who completed high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) protocols under four conditions: baseline, following O2-O3 sauna sessions, after oatmeal supplementation, and post-HIIE. Blood glucose, lactate, white blood cell count (WBC), and levels of NRF2 pathway-related antioxidants, body weight, and blood pressure were measured under four conditions. Results:Significant fluctuations over time were observed in cardiovascular responses (p<0.05). Notably, cardiovascular responses following HIIE after supplementation differed compared to ozone sessions. Lactate, platelets, lymphocytes, and WBC increased significantly, while neutrophils decreased (p<0.05). glucose and most NRF2-related antioxidants remained stable; however, a gender-specific increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) was found (p>0.05). Women showed a greater WBC reduction after oatmeal versus O2-O3 administration (p>0.05). Conclusion:The study demonstrated that oatmeal and O2-O3 administrations may significantly affect cardiovascular responses and immune cell dynamics post-exercise, with gender-specific effects. The SOD increase among women and the greater reduction in WBC after oatmeal probably suggest its potential in enhancing antioxidant defenses and reducing inflammation. These findings probably underscore the role of dietary interventions in managing oxidative stress following intense exercise.
Objective: Carica papaya has been widely recognized for its medicinal benefits, particularly in treating metabolic disorders such as obesity. This study examines the weight loss effects of C. papaya fruit peel and determines its phytochemical composition. Materials and Methods: Various standard procedures were utilized for the identification and quantification of phytochemicals. UV/Vis spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) were utilized to identify the functional groups and volatile compounds. In vitro, pancreatic lipase inhibition assay and in vivo, high-fat diet rat model were used to evaluate the anti-obesity activity of the methanol extract. Lipid profile, liver function tests (LFTs) and renal function tests (RFTs) were measured, and histopathological studies of the pancreas, liver, and kidneys were performed. Results: The results of phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of various compounds such as flavonoids, polyphenols, and glycosaponins which are recognized for their anti-obesity properties. GC/mass analysis also confirmed the existence of volatile compounds. The methanol extract from C. papaya fruit peel significantly inhibited pancreatic lipase activity dose-dependently. In vivo studies showed that the methanol extract reduced the weight, improved the lipid profile, and restored the normal structure of the pancreas, liver, and kidneys. These effects were nearly identical to those of the standard reference drug, orlistat. Conclusion: This study confirms the anti-obesity activity of C. papaya fruit peel. Further clinical studies are needed to validate its safety and efficacy, as well as to explore its underlying mechanisms of action.
Objective:The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of supplementing with shankhpushpi tea or Clitoria ternatea flower extract (CTE) on changes in serum protein carbonyls and urine 5-Hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) levels in those experiencing diabetic distress. Materials and Methods:A comparative study conducted with 30 healthy voluntaries as control group- CON, 90 type-2 diabetic patients experiencing moderate distress (as determined by a DDS-17 score between 2 and 3), 30 patients were assigned to either the DIAB, CTE-1 or CTE-2, with the CTE-1 group receiving 5 daily for 12 weeks and the CTE-2 group receiving 10 daily. Serum protein carbonyls and urinary 5-HIAA levels were assessed at the end of the twelfth week to conclude the preventive role of CTE on diabetic distress in the type-2 diabetic population. Results:Out of the 114 individuals initially enrolled in the study, 90 were included in the final analysis. The diabetic distress group (DIAB) exhibited significantly elevated levels of protein carbonyls and significantly decreased levels of 5-HIAA (p<0.001). In comparison to the CON group, the administration of both Shankhpushpi 5 g and 10 g extracts resulted in a significant reduction in serum protein carbonyls and an increase in urinary 5-HIAA, demonstrating a statistically significant compared with control (p<0.001). Conclusion:Shankhpushpi tea supplementation is beneficial in improvement of diabetic distress (quality of life) in diabetic patients.
Objective: Paraquat (PQ), a commonly used herbicide, is known to induce male reproductive toxicity through oxidative stress. This study evaluated the protective effects of saffron hydroalcoholic extract (SFE) against PQ-induced testicular damage in adult male mice. Materials and Methods: Thirty male BALB/c mice were randomly assigned to six groups (n=5) including control, saffron extract (80 mg/kg/day; SFE), PQ (20 mg/kg/day; PQ20), PQ (40 mg/kg/day; PQ40), PQ20 + SFE80, and PQ40 + SFE80. Treatments were administered orally for 30 days. After the treatment period, the mice were euthanized, and parameters such as testosterone concentration, sperm quality, gonadosomatic index (GSI), antioxidant enzyme activity, and the expression of apoptosis-related genes were analyzed. Additionally, histopathological evaluation of testicular tissue was performed using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Results: PQ significantly reduced body weight, testicular weight, GSI, sperm count, viability, motility, and normal morphology compared to the control group. Furthermore, the PQ20+SFE80 and PQ40 + SFE80 groups exhibited a significant decrease in catalase (CAT) activity, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), serum testosterone levels, and histological indexes. However, co-treatment with SFE significantly mitigated these effects. Compared to the PQ-only groups, mice treated with both PQ and SFE exhibited significant improvements in sperm parameters, restored antioxidant enzyme activities (CAT and TAC), normalized serum testosterone levels, and preserved testicular histology. Conclusion: Saffron extract exerts protective effects against PQ-induced reproductive toxicity by enhancing antioxidant defenses, hormonal regulation, and preserving testicular integrity and apoptotic status.
Objective:The glycopeptide antibiotic colistin (polymyxin E) causes dose-dependent nephrotoxicity. The pathophysiology of colistin-induced nephrotoxicity involves processes such as ischemia, inflammation, and apoptosis. By alleviating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, crocin, a key component of Crocus sativus protects the kidneys from toxicity. This study designed to explore the protective effects of crocin against colistin-induced cytotoxicity in HEK-293 cells. Materials and Methods:HEK-293 cells were treated with varying concentrations of crocin (1.25 - 40 μM) for 24 hr before exposure to 160 µM colistin (the IC50 value). Cell viability was measured using an MTT assay. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were measured using DCFH, and Western blotting was performed to analyze the expression of Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase-3 proteins. Results:Pre-treatment with crocin at concentrations of 1.25 (p<0.001), 2.5, and 5 (p<0.01) µM effectively enhanced cell viability, which had been diminished by colistin. Furthermore, crocin mitigated the elevated levels of ROS induced by colistin (p<0.001). The findings reveal that crocin prevented the upregulation of pro-apoptotic proteins Bax (p<0.05) and caspase-3 (p<0.01), and countered the downregulation of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 (p<0.05) triggered by colistin in HEK-293 cells. Conclusion:Crocin serves as a natural compound that alleviates colistin-induced cytotoxicity through inhibiting oxidative stress and preventing apoptosis induction. As a result, crocin stands out as a promising antioxidant for preventing colistin-induced cytotoxicity, especially in renal cells.
Objective:This investigation aimed to evaluate how varying doses of auraptene (AUR) alone and in combination with estradiol (E2) on various parameters after traumatic brain injury (TBI) in rats. Materials and Methods:The rats were divided into twelve groups, including a sham group and eleven TBI groups. The TBI groups consisted of three vehicle groups (DMSO, Oil, and DMSO+Oil), an E2 group, three AUR groups with varying doses (4, 8, and 25 mg/kg), and three combination groups of AUR and E2 (AUR 4+E2, AUR 8+E2, and AUR 25+E2).AUR was administered for five consecutive days) ip). TBI was induced 30 minutes after the last injection on the fifth day.E2 and Oil were injected 30 minutes post-TBI. Results:AUR at 25 mg/kg and in combination with E2 significantly reduced brain water content. Nitric Oxide (NO) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were lower in AUR 8 and 25, and all AUR+E2 groups. Glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and Catalase (CAT) activity increased in all AUR+E2 groups. TBI increased interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) levels in the intestine, which were reduced by AUR alone and AUR+E2. Conclusion:These findings support AUR, particularly with E2, as a promising therapeutic strategy for managing oxidative stress, inflammation, and tissue damage in TBI cases.
Objective:The burden of cancer prevalence and mortality poses challenges to global cancer care delivery, particularly impacting low- and middle-income countries in accessing evidence-based cancer prevention, treatment, and supportive care. Integrative oncology integrates traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine with standard cancer therapies to enhance healthcare delivery. This study aims to evaluate the anti-cancer properties of kombucha tea across multiple cancer types. Materials and Methods:Various databases, including PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus, reviewed for recent research on kombucha tea's potential benefits and impact on cancer. Results:Recent research developments highlight kombucha tea as a potential aid in enhancing cancer resistance and offering various health benefits. Conclusion:Integrative oncology, complemented by the consumption of kombucha tea, presents a promising approach to addressing the complexities of cancer care. Further exploration and updates on kombucha tea anti-cancer properties against breast, lung, liver, colorectal, ovarian, uterine, and prostate cancers are warranted to enhance comprehensive understanding and potential therapeutic applications.
Objective: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disorder worldwide, affecting 30-40% of adults. High-fat diets contribute significantly to NAFLD by promoting hepatic lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, and inflammation. In this context, cinnamaldehyde (CNMA) has emerged as a promising hepatoprotective agent due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-regulatory properties. Materials and Methods: Male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups (n=6 per group): (A) Control; (B) HFD; (C) Control+CNMA; and (D) HFD+CNMA. CNMA was administered orally at 20 mg/kg body weight for 16 weeks simultaneously with HFD. At the end of the study, rats were fasted for 12-14 hr and anesthetized with sodium pentobarbital (60 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) for serum, liver, and visceral adipose tissues collection. Biochemical analyses included serum liver enzymes, lipid profiles, hepatic triglyceride levels, and oxidative stress markers (nitric oxide metabolites; NOx, and malondialdehyde; MDA). Histopathological evaluation was performed on H&E (Hematoxylin and Eosin)-stained liver sections. Results: HFD feeding induced significant hepatic injury and metabolic dysfunction in rats, characterized by elevated AST (Aspartate aminotransferase) and ALT (Alanine aminotransferase) levels, increased liver and fat pad weights, and enhanced oxidative stress. CNMA treatment significantly reduced these parameters, resulting in lower serum liver enzymes, decreased hepatic triglyceride content, reduced adiposity (notably mesenteric fat), and ameliorated oxidative stress. Histopathological findings confirmed a reduction in micro-and macrovesicular steatosis with CNMA. Conclusion: CNMA significantly protected against HFD-induced hepatic injury by reducing serum AST and ALT, hepatic triglycerides, visceral adiposity, and oxidative stress and inflammatory markers, as confirmed by histopathology. It suggests the therapeutic potential of CNMA for NAFLD and related metabolic disorders.
Objective:Pomegranate juice (PJ) is rich in polyphenols with potential lipid-lowering effects. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of PJ consumption on blood lipid parameters through a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Materials and Methods:A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases to identify RCTs assessing the effects of PJ on lipid profiles in adults. A total of 17 RCTs involving 663 participants were included. Outcomes analyzed were changes in total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Subgroup and meta-regression analyses were performed based on dose, duration, and participant health status. Results:PJ consumption was associated with significant reductions in TG (MD: -8.2 mg/dL) and LDL-C (MD: -4.8 mg/dL), and a significant increase in HDL-C (MD: +2.8 mg/dL). No overall effect was observed for TC. High heterogeneity was detected, partially explained by differences in PJ dose and population characteristics. Conclusion:PJ may improve lipid profiles, particularly by reducing TG and LDL-C and increasing HDL-C levels. These effects appear more pronounced in populations with metabolic disorders. Future trials with standardized PJ formulations and longer durations are warranted.
Objective: Diabetes mellitus (DM) as a chronic disease can negatively affect male fertility due to endocrine and metabolic pathways disruption. This study was implemented to appraise the possible beneficial effects of urolithin A (UA), a natural polyphenol produced by the gut microbiota, against DM adverse effects on epididymal sperms and pre-implantation embryo development in mature rats. Materials and Methods: Forty mature male Wistar rats were randomly allocated to five equal groups including non-treated control group, DM group administered with intra-peritoneal streptozotocin (50 mg/kg), and three treated diabetic groups which received 25, 100, and 400 mg/kg of UA for 60 days orally. Thereafter, serum levels of testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH), and testicular total anti-oxidant capacity (TTAC) and malondialdehyde (TMDA), as well as sperm quantity and quality, in vivo fertility, and in vitro fertilization (IVF) success rate were rigorously assessed. Results: The UA exerted dose-dependent protective effects against DM-related negative impacts on biochemical (testosterone, FSH, LH, TTAC, and TMDA), spermatological (sperm count, motility, viability, and chromatin and DNA qualities), in vivo fertility, and embryological (IVF, and two-cell embryos, morulae, and blastocysts formation rates) parameters. Conclusion: This study's outcomes spotlighted the promising protective functions of UA in DM-associated male reproductive disorders in rats, owing its weighty anti-oxidative properties.
Objective:During inflammation and oxidative stress, vascular endothelial cell surfaces express high levels of adhesion molecules such as intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1) which bind the circulatory leukocytes (e.g. macrophages), through counter receptors LFA/Mac1. The bound leukocytes on sub-endothelial translocation accumulate oxidized lipids and proteins, developing atherosclerotic plaques by foam cell and fatty streak formations. Herewith, nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA) prevails as a polyphenol in the Larrea tridentate plant, with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory traits. This study for the first time elucidates that NDGA attenuates TNFα-dependent ICAM1 expression in the cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), by targeting the TNFα-PI3K-NF-κB-ICAM1 pathway. Materials and Methods:Cultured HUVECs were treated with pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidative cytokine TNFα, to induce ICAM1 mRNA level and protein expression on HUVECs cell surface as documented by northern and western blot, respectively. The effect of varying NDGA concentrations was examined on TNFα-stimulated ICAM1 expression and monocyte attachment assay. Results:Pre-TNFα-NDGA treatment of HUVECs moderated TNFα-dependent ICAM1 expression and monocyte attachment on vascular endothelium by inhibiting the PI3K-NF-κB-ICAM1 signaling pathway. Conclusion:In this study, the NDGA anti-inflammatory and anti-adhesion essence is elucidated via impaired cytoplasm to nucleus translocation of pro-oxidative and pro-inflammatory transcription factor NF-κB, moderating the ICAM1 expression and monocyte attachment.
Objective:This study assessed the neuroprotective effects of crocin one of the main bioactive compounds of saffron, in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, by focusing on its anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective properties. Materials and Methods:In this systematic review, we evaluated the efficacy of crocin on in vivo models of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Using three online literature databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar), we identified studies describing the neuroprotective effects of crocin in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. A literature search was carried out using a combination of keywords such as crocin, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective. Papers were identified to describe the neuroprotective effects of crocin from 2013 until 2024. Results:The total number of articles included in the present review is 28. Reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and increasing superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels indicate the anti-oxidant effects of crocin. Crocin can show anti-inflammatory activities via decreasing tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin levels. Crocin can display cytoprotective effects via down-regulation of p- extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2, and augmentation of phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3K)/Akt/ mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway activity. Conclusion:Finally due to a noticeable efficacy of crocin, it is suggested that crocin can be used as a suitable neuroprotective agent against Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
Objective:High menstrual bleeding (HMB) is a common issue affecting women's health, often leading to significant physical and psychological distress. While several medical treatments are available, many women face treatment failures or undesirable side effects, prompting interest in natural remedies. This systematic review aims to evaluate the therapeutic effects of Plantago major on women with high menstrual bleeding, focusing on randomized clinical trials. Materials and Methods:A comprehensive literature search was conducted in various databases such as, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar to identify relevant randomized clinical trials assessing the efficacy of Plantago major in reducing menstrual bleeding until July 2024. Various preparations of P. major were utilized in the included studies. Results:Administration of P. major leaf and seed extract significantly reduced both the duration and severity of bleeding. These extracts also led to a decrease in hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (HTC) levels in the intervention group compared to the control group. The rectal suppository of P. major seed extract significantly decreased bleeding during the first 4 hours postpartum compared to the control group. Additionally, vaginal suppositories of P. major leaf extract notably reduced the mean in the pictorial blood loss assessment chart (PBAC) and improved the duration of bleeding in the intervention group. Conclusion:The extracts of P. major seeds and leaves may enhance hematological parameters and reduce both the mean and severity of menstrual bleeding; however, the clinical significance of these findings necessitates further assessment in future trials.
Objective: The effects of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. extract (HSE) as a supplemental therapy with valsartan for type 2 diabetic patients with nephropathy and its underlying biological functions were investigated in this study. Materials and Methods: This clinical trial took place in Gorgan, Iran with 70 diabetic nephropathy patients who had hypertension. The participants were divided into two groups: The HSE group which received 500 mg HSE along with valsartan 40 mg twice daily over three months (n=35) and the control group which received valsartan plus hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg (n=35). The study measured blood pressure levels with additional assessments of microalbuminuria, proteinuria, and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) alongside lipid profile analysis, and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), fasting blood glucose (FBS), and electrolyte tests. Molecular docking simulations tested HSE compounds as potential inhibitors of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2), dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and Receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE). Results: Both groups showed improvements, but HSE had a greater impact on kidney function and lipid levels, while control group was more effective in lowering blood pressure and improving glucose metabolism. Docking analysis revealed that cyanidin 3-O-beta-D-sambubioside and tiliroside strongly interacted with targets, suggesting a role in blood glucose regulation and insulin secretion. Conclusion: HSE demonstrates the potential to help type 2 diabetic nephropathy patients by modifying renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system activity carbohydrate digestion processes and lipid metabolism which reduces diabetic complications risks.
Objective: The beneficial effect of Vitex agnus-castus on the female endocrine system has been reported. This study examines the impact of Vitex extract (VE) on the serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), sex hormones, and P450arom, AMH, and CTRP6 gene expression in the ovaries of a rat model of PCOS. Materials and Methods: Thirty-two rats with regular estrous cycles were enrolled as controls, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and two treatment groups. PCOS was induced by estradiol valerate. The treatment groups (T1 &T2) received VE (150 or 200 mg/kg body weight, respectively) for 30 days following PCOS induction. Serum and left ovary were used to assess hormone levels and P450arom, AMH, and CTRP6 gene expression. Results: In the T2 group, a significant decrease in estradiol (E2, testosterone, and AMH levels (p=0.028) was observed with no significant change in DHEA (p=0.967) in comparison with the PCOS group. AMH in the serum was significantly higher in the PCOS group than in all the other groups (p=0.021). The level of progesterone was not considerably changed between treatments and the PCOS group (p=0.11). The expression of P450arom in the T2 group was significantly higher than the PCOS group (p=0.003) and had no significant difference from the control (p=0.200). The expression of AMH (p=0.003) and CTRP6 was significantly (p=0.0001) higher in the ovaries of the PCOS group compared to other groups, and consumption of the extract improved the evaluated parameters significantly. Conclusion: The endocrine profile and gene expression were improved in the rat ovary following administration of VE, and therefore, the therapeutic effect of VE may be expected in PCOS.
Objective: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is asymptomatic and can lead to severe and irreversible vision loss if not treated promptly. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of crocin in mild-to-moderate DR patients whose macular center was not involved according to the early treatment diabetic retinopathy study (ETDRS) criteria. Materials and Methods: Forty patients with primary DR without involvement of the macular center were enrolled and randomized into crocin 15 mg/day and placebo groups for 3 months. At the beginning and 3 months later, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), fasting blood sugar (FBS) and HbA1c were measured and the thickness of areas around the macula was determined. After three months, the patients were examined by an ophthalmologist and the required specialized tests were performed. Results: The mean age of the participants was 47-71 years that were 27 males and 13 females. In the intragroup comparison, the thickness around the macula was significantly reduced in the crocin group (p=0.001) compared to placebo group (p=0.67). In comparison between groups, the mean thickness of the areas around the macula at the beginning and end of the study was significantly different (p=0.046). BCVA was not significantly different after 3 months between groups. HbA1C was significantly reduced (p=0.004) in the crocin group. In this study, no specific complication due to drug use was reported. Conclusion: Based on our findings, crocin was effective in reducing the thickness of the areas around the macula in mild-to-moderate DR. It is suggested that crocin can be considered an effective supplementary drug in preventing the progression and an adjuvant therapy for DR.
