Medicinal plants and their preparations are of great interest to many patients with rheumatic diseases. In 2023 the German Society for Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology (DGRh) Committee for Complementary Medicine and Nutrition (KHE) began reviewing the scientific literature on selected phytotherapeutic agents and herbal preparations and examining their potential applications in rheumatology. Following the publication of the initial results in 2025, the evaluation of 13 additional phytotherapeutic agents took place later that same year. In an online meeting of the KHE Committee on 7 January 2025, a further list of phytotherapeutic agents frequently used in rheumatology (mostly as self-medication) was compiled. Committee members then conducted literature searches on these herbal preparations and summarized the results according to a predefined matrix. Research was conducted on comfrey, arnica, turmeric, ginger, cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa), garlic, cabbage leaves, milk thistle, Pycnogenol (extract from the bark of maritime pine), horsetail, devil's claw (Harpagophytum), frankincense (Boswellia) and Wilford's tripter fruit (Tripterygium wilfordii). The results were reviewed using a circulation procedure, a consensus was agreed upon in an online meeting of the KHE committee and finally confirmed by the German Society for Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology (DGRh). For all plant substances investigated, there are reports of anti-inflammatory or immunological effects in vitro and/or in animal models; however, the evidence for a clinically relevant benefit is very limited. None of the investigated preparations can be recommended for use in inflammatory joint diseases. If arnica, comfrey, turmeric, ginger, garlic, cabbage leaves, Pycnogenol, devil's claw or frankincense are taken at the patient's own initiative for degenerative joint diseases, rheumatologists do not need to advise against them, provided a sensible treatment plan is otherwise being followed. Ginger, garlic and turmeric in their natural form can be recommended as foods within the framework of a health-conscious diet. The scientific analysis of a second series of herbal preparations has also shown that the confirmed value of phytotherapy for the field is limited; however, for the rheumatological practice a differentiated consideration is needed for the herbal preparations presented here. EINLEITUNG: Heilpflanzen und ihre Zubereitungen stoßen bei vielen Patienten mit rheumatischen Erkrankungen auf Interesse. Die DGRh-Kommission für Komplementäre Heilverfahren und Ernährung (KHE) hat im Jahre 2023 damit begonnen, die wissenschaftliche Literatur zu ausgewählten Phytotherapeutika und pflanzlichen Präparaten zu sichten und Möglichkeiten für ihre Anwendung in der Rheumatologie zu prüfen. Nachdem 2025 erste Ergebnisse veröffentlicht wurden, folgte im gleichen Jahr die Begutachtung von 13 weiteren Phytotherapeutika. In einer Online-Sitzung der Kommission KHE am 07.01.2025 wurde eine weitere Liste von Phytotherapeutika erstellt, die in der Rheumatologie häufig Anwendung finden (meist als Selbstmedikation). Mitglieder der Kommission führten daraufhin Literaturrecherchen zu diesen Präparaten durch und fassten die Ergebnisse nach einer vorab vereinbarten Matrix zusammen. Dabei wurde zu Beinwell, Bergwohlverleih (Arnica), Curcuma, Ingwer, Katzenkralle (Uncaria tomentosa), Knoblauch, Kohlblättern, Mariendistel, Pycnogenol (See-Kiefer-Rindenextrakt), Schachtelhalm, Teufelskralle (Harpagophytum), Weihrauch (Boswellia) und Wilfords Dreiflügelfrucht (Tripterygium wilfordii) recherchiert. Die Ergebnisse wurden im Umlaufverfahren überprüft, in einer Online-Sitzung der Kommission KHE konsentiert und vom Vorstand der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Rheumatologie und klinische Immunologie (DGRh) final bestätigt. Für alle untersuchten Pflanzenstoffe liegen Berichte über entzündungshemmende oder immunologische Effekte in vitro und/oder im Tiermodell vor. Die Evidenz für einen klinisch relevanten Nutzen ist jedoch sehr spärlich. Für keines der untersuchten Präparate kann eine Anwendung bei entzündlichen Gelenkerkrankungen empfohlen werden. Wenn Arnica, Beinwell, Curcuma, Ingwer, Knoblauch, Kohlblätter, Pycnogenol, Teufelskralle oder Weihrauch bei degenerativen Gelenkerkrankungen auf Patienten-Initiative eingenommen werden, müssen Rheumatologen nicht abraten, wenn ansonsten ein sinnvolles Therapiekonzept eingehalten wird. Ingwer, Knoblauch und Curcuma in natürlicher Form können als Lebensmittel im Rahmen einer gesundheitsbewussten Ernährung empfohlen werden. Auch die wissenschaftliche Analyse einer zweiten Serie von pflanzlichen Präparaten hat gezeigt, dass der belegbare Stellenwert der Phytotherapie für das Fachgebiet gering ist. Dabei müssen die hier vorgestellten pflanzlichen Präparate für die rheumatologische Praxis jedoch differenziert betrachtet werden.
Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) remains a significant global health concern associated with substantial morbidity. The primary etiologies include Helicobacter pylori infection and the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), both of which impair gastric mucosal defense mechanisms. This review aims to provide an updated overview of the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and current management strategies of PUD, including emerging therapeutic developments. Advances in diagnostic modalities, such as endoscopy and imaging, have improved early detection and clinical outcomes. Current management focuses on H. pylori eradication, gastric acid suppression with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and prevention of complications. Recent advances in peptic ulcer therapy include the introduction of potassium-competitive acid blockers (P-CABs), which provide rapid and potent acid suppression and may serve as an effective alternative to PPIs in selected patients. In cases of bleeding ulcers, endoscopic therapy combined with high-dose PPI administration remains the standard of care. Case reports from multiple countries demonstrate a wide clinical spectrum, ranging from mild dyspepsia to severe complications such as perforation and upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Common risk factors include chronic NSAID use, smoking, anticoagulant therapy, and persistent H. pylori infection. Diagnosis is established through laboratory evaluation, imaging, and endoscopy, while treatment ranges from pharmacological therapy to emergency surgical intervention in severe cases. Most patients show favourable outcomes with timely management, although mortality may still occur in complicated conditions. Emerging challenges, particularly antibiotic resistance, have led to the adoption of tailored therapeutic strategies based on antimicrobial susceptibility testing. In addition, novel approaches, including phytotherapy, are being explored as potential adjuncts. An individualized and evidence-based approach is therefore essential to optimize clinical outcomes in patients with PUD.
There are currently no registered medicines available for the treatment of gambling disorder. To describe the evidence about medication for gambling disorder. We conducted a systematic review of the effectiveness of medication for gambling disorder in Medline, Embase, and PsycInfo. Due to methodological differences between the studies no meta-analysis could be performed. We included 24 double-blind, randomized trials with a total of 1,547 patients, analyzing the effect on gambling disorder of opioid antagonists, antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, anti-epileptics, glutamate modulators and phytotherapy. In 21 studies active medication was compared to placebo and in three studies two active medications were compared. Of the seven studies about opioid antagonists, four reported significantly better results than placebo. A positive effect was seen less frequently with the other drugs. Due to the limited evidence, only patients who do not respond to psychotherapeutic interventions might be considered for off-label treatment with an opioid antagonist such as naltrexone or nalmefene. For all other medications investigated, there is currently insufficient evidence of effectiveness in treating gambling disorder.
Background/Objectives: Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim. (meadowsweet) is a medicinal plant traditionally used for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. There is also some data indicating its anticancer potential; however, its impact on colorectal cancer cells remains poorly understood. Here we investigated the cytotoxic and pro-apoptotic effects of an aqueous F. ulmaria extract on human LoVo colorectal cancer cells and analyzed some of the mechanisms underlying it. Methods: LoVo colorectal cancer cells were treated with the aqueous extract and analyzed for intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential, DNA damage, lysosomal alterations, apoptosis-related mechanisms, and antioxidant activity. Phytochemical profiling was performed by HPLC-TOF/MS. Results: The extract elevated intracellular ROS levels, disrupted mitochondrial membrane potential, and induced DNA damage in LoVo cells. Activation of crucial caspases, along with increased p53 levels, confirmed engagement of both extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways. Changes in lysosomal fluorescence were also observed, indicating alterations in lysosomal properties. In chemical assays (FRAP, TAC, DPPH, ABTS, and superoxide scavenging), the extract demonstrated robust antioxidant capacity comparable to or exceeding that of ascorbic acid. Phytochemical profiling by HPLC-TOF/MS revealed a rich presence of bioactive flavonoids, phenolic acids, and coumarins. Altogether, our findings indicate that the extract's cytotoxicity against colon cancer cells arises from a multifaceted mechanism involving oxidative stress, organelle dysfunction, and apoptosis induction. Conclusions: These results highlight F. ulmaria aqueous extract as a promising candidate for colorectal cancer phytotherapy as a form of supportive treatment and warrant further preclinical validation.
The article considers placement of methods of traditional and complementary medicine in the public health system of the Russian Federation, focusing on prevention and management of chronic non-communicable diseases. The analysis of the evidence base on key methods of traditional and complementary medicine (acupuncture, phytotherapy, homeopathy, manual therapy, osteopathy) was carried out, including differentiated estimate of level of evidence for forms of homeopathy based on the latest systematic review of meta-analyses. The legal framework of its application in Russia are explored. The corresponding collisions and barriers are identified. The following proposals concerning integrative health care model are formulated: differentiated register of methods, clinical guidelines, pilot integration into compulsory health insurance system and enhancement of research. Рассмотрено место методов традиционной и комплементарной медицины в системе общественного здравья Российской Федерации с фокусом на профилактику и управление хроническими неинфекционными заболеваниями. Проведен анализ доказательной базы по ключевым методам традиционной и комплементарной медицины (акупунктура, фитотерапия, гомеопатия, мануальная терапия, остеопатия), включая дифференцированную оценку уровня доказательств для форм гомеопатии на основе новейшего систематического обзора метаанализов. Исследованы правовые рамки применения ее в России, выявлены коллизии и барьеры. На основе анализа сформулированы предложения по интегративной модели здравоохранения: дифференцированный реестр методов, клинические рекомендации, пилотная интеграция в ОМС и усиление исследований.
Phytotherapy has emerged as a promising strategy for the management of obesity and related metabolic disorders. In this context, species of the Physalis genus have been widely recognized in traditional medicine for their potential therapeutic effects against these conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Physalis philadelphica husk infusion on obesity and associated metabolic disturbances such as hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, hepatic steatosis, and oxidative stress markers in diet-induced obese rats. Male Wistar rats were allocated into three groups (n = 8): (1) healthy control, (2) obese control group, and (3) intervention group (husk infusion). Obesity was induced using a high-fructose and high-saturated fat diet (~511.1 kcal/100 g), followed by 16 weeks of husk infusion administration. After euthanasia, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, hepatic steatosis, and oxidative stress markers were analyzed. Results showed that rats receiving the husk infusion exhibited a significant reduction in weight gain (~7.2%), serum glucose levels (22.8%), and free fatty acids (26%) compared to the obese control group, while no significant effects on insulin sensitivity, hepatic steatosis, or several lipid-related parameters were observed. Regarding oxidative stress markers, serum nitrite levels decreased by 33%, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the liver (30%) and adipose tissue (38%) were significantly reduced compared to the obese control group. Moreover, treated rats showed a significant increase in catalase (~1.2-fold) and superoxide dismutase (~2.8-fold) activity in the liver. These findings suggest that Physalis philadelphica husk infusion reduces hyperglycemia and improves oxidative stress in obese rats.
The review evaluates current clinical and epidemiological evidence regarding the use of plant-derived compounds in pediatric practice. Data from randomized controlled trials indicate symptomatic efficacy of selected agents-particularly in acute respiratory infections-alongside generally favorable safety profiles when standardized preparations are used. Emerging research also explores applications in neurodevelopmental disorders, gastrointestinal conditions, and dermatology, and as supportive therapy in pediatric oncology. However, variability in product quality, limited pediatric-specific trials, potential toxicity, and regulatory inconsistencies remain significant challenges. The integration of phytotherapy into pediatric care therefore requires rigorous study design, careful safety monitoring, and clear quality standards to ensure an evidence-based risk-benefit balance.
Enzymatic nanomotors (EMNMs) represent an emerging class of intelligent nanosystems that exploit enzymatic biocatalysis to generate autonomous motion within biological environments, including complex cellular and tissue contexts within living organisms. Owing to their ability to utilize endogenous biofuels, high biocompatibility, and capacity for targeted propulsion, EMNMs have demonstrated considerable potential in diverse biomedical applications. These include targeted drug delivery, cancer therapy, diagnostics, and bioimaging, as well as the traversal of biological barriers. This review comprehensively discusses the mechanisms underlying enzyme-driven propulsion, nanomotor design strategies, and their current and prospective applications in medicine, while also addressing major challenges associated with enzymatic stability, biocompatibility, motion control, and clinical safety. Furthermore, future perspectives are highlighted, including enzyme cascade systems, intelligent nanomotor swarms, biodegradable materials, and strategies facilitating clinical translation. As a representative example of practical application, curcumin was employed as a model therapeutic agent due to its well-established anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, enabling evaluation of the nanomotors' capability for controlled, pH-responsive release of therapeutic cargo. Nanophytomedicine enhances the therapeutic efficacy of phytochemicals by improving their stability, bioavailability, and targeted delivery through nanocarrier systems. The integration of phytotherapy with nanotechnology offers promising opportunities for the development of safer and more effective therapeutic strategies.
Serissa belongs to Rubiaceae plants, which has the effects of dispelling wind and relieving surface, clearing heat and draining dampness, relaxing the sinews, and quickening the collaterals. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and anti-hepatitis B virus properties, inhibits bacterial growth and tyrosinase activity, and promotes coagulation and other pharmacological effects. It also has a good therapeutic effect on kidney diseases. In this paper, the botany, traditional use, processing specifications, phytochemistry, pharmacological effects, toxicology, clinical application, and quality control analysis of the genus Serissa were reviewed to provide some reference for the follow-up application of the genus Serissa. Literature and related information were collected from online resources such as Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, CNKI, Baidu Scholar, and VIP database. A total of 141 compounds were collected, including volatile oil components, flavonoids, lignans, quinones, triterpenoids, and steroids. The most important pharmacological effect of Serissa is its anti-inflammatory action, which is commonly used in the treatment of diseases such as hepatitis and nephritis. In this paper, the botany, traditional use, processing specification, phytochemistry, pharmacological effects, toxicology, clinical application, quality control analysis, and other aspects of a comprehensive review proved that Serissa has great medicinal value.
Diabetic wounds are characterized by persistent inflammation, prolonged healing time, and an increased risk of amputation. The use of natural compounds combined with established therapies can increase the effectiveness of treatments for these lesions. In this context, natural products have stood out as therapeutic adjuvants due to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and regenerative properties. Terminalia fagifolia Mart., a medicinal species native to the Brazilian Cerrado, has a rich phytochemical composition; however, its clinical potential in wound healing has not yet been investigated. This is the first clinical trial to investigate the potential synergistic effects of Terminalia fagifolia Mart. extract, alone or in combination with photobiomodulation, on the healing of non-infected diabetic foot ulcers. A total of 102 participants with type 2 diabetes and lower limb ulcers will be randomly allocated into three groups: G1 (Terminalia fagifolia Mart. + wound occlusion), G2 (GaAs 904, 10 J/cm² + Terminalia fagifolia Mart. + wound occlusion), and a control group using Endophoton KLD (GaAs 904) at a dose of 10 J/cm² + conventional dressing. One hundred and two volunteers will be recruited and treated on two non-consecutive days per week for 10 weeks, totaling 20 sessions. The primary outcome variable will be the rate of ulcer size reduction over the 10-week period. This study is expected to provide preliminary evidence regarding the safety, feasibility, and potential efficacy of the synergistic use of T. fagifolia Mart. extract combined with photobiomodulation in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers.Clinical trial registration This study was registered at Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry (ReBEC) on December 27, 2023 (RBR-25ng5pt || https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-25ng5pt ).
Ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, plays a critical role in various diseases. Berberine, a bioactive compound from plants such as Coptis chinensis, tree turmeric, and barberry, exhibits bidirectional regulation of ferroptosis, but its systemic mechanisms remain unclear. This review summarizes berberine's effects through multiple signaling pathways, emphasizing context-dependent mechanisms, tissue-specific accumulation, and therapeutic potential. Relevant literature was retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, and ScienceDirect. Berberine modulates ferroptosis via iron homeostasis, lipid peroxidation, the System Xc-/GSH/GPX4 anti-oxidant system, and mitochondrial function, involving NRF2, p53, AMPK, PI3K/Akt, and MAPK pathways. It promotes ferroptosis in tumors and fibrotic diseases but inhibits it in cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurological disorders, alleviating tissue damage. Nano-delivery systems and structural optimization enhance bioavailability and targeting, demonstrating therapeutic efficacy and biosafety. Berberine's multi-target, bidirectional regulation shows promising clinical potential, warranting further mechanistic and delivery-focused studies.
The publisher identified, after publication of this article, that Reference No. 100 was incomplete in the reference list. This error has now been corrected. The original article can be found online at: https://www.eurekaselect.com/article/150286 We regret the error and apologize to readers. Details of the correction: Original [100] Costa CJ, Nguyen MTT, Vaziri H, Wu GY. Genetics of gallstone disease and its clinical significance: A narrative review. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2024; 000(000): 000. http://dx.doi.org/10.14218/JCTH.2023.00563 PMID: 38426197 Corrected [100] Costa CJ, Nguyen MTT, Vaziri H, Wu GY. Genetics of gallstone disease and its clinical significance: A narrative review. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2024; 12(3): 316. http://dx.doi.org/10.14218/JCTH.2023.00563 PMID: 38426197.
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is among the most lethal of malignancies. Quercetin (QCT), a natural flavonoid, exhibits broad pharmacological activities and minimal toxicity, which makes it a promising candidate for cancer therapy. Ferroptosis, a form of cell death driven by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, has emerged as a promising therapeutic target for cancer treatment. Emerging evidence highlights ferroptosis as a key tumor-suppressive mechanism because it directly kills tumor cells independently of apoptotic effectors and necrosis inducers. The focus of this work is to investigate the significance of QCT in inhibiting PDAC via ferroptosis induction. The antitumor effects of QCT on PDAC were investigated both in vitro, through analyses of cell proliferation and apoptosis, and in vivo by using tumor xenograft models. The in vitro validation results confirmed that QCT inhibited PDAC cell proliferation by modulating ferroptosis via the elevation of intracellular Fe[Formula: see text] and lipid peroxidation. In addition, QCT promoted autophagy by upregulating expression of LC3 and ATG5 autophagy-related proteins. Mechanistically, QCT sensitized PDAC cells to ferroptosis by facilitating NCOA4-mediated ferritinophagy to increase intracellular Fe[Formula: see text] content. Conversely, silencing NCOA4 further supported our mechanistic studies by restoring the downregulated mitochondrial respiration and glycolytic capacity. This study likewise served to demonstrate the significance of NCOA4-mediated ferritinophagy in promoting QCT-regulated tumor cell death. Taken together, our findings reveal the direct protein targets and molecular mechanisms through which QCT enhances antitumor activity, and thus suggest that the targeted induction of ferroptosis via QCT administration may represent a valuable and effective strategy for treating PDAC.
Frequently evolving into a highly immunosuppressive niche that facilitates tumor growth and metastasis, the tumor microenvironment (TME) serves as the primary site for interactions between tumor cells and the host immune system. Reversing this immunosuppressive state therefore represents a pivotal strategy for antitumor therapy. Natural products possess the distinct advantages of multi-targeted and multi-pathway mechanisms, as well as the capacity to enhance therapeutic efficacy while attenuating systemic toxicity. These characteristics perfectly align with the core principles of antitumor immunotherapy. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that natural products including Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides, Astragalus polysaccharides, and Lycium barbarum polysaccharides, as well as bioactive single compounds such as curcumin, resveratrol, and bufalin, exert potent antitumor immunotherapeutic effects by remodeling the suppressive TME. Consequently, they are increasingly being utilized as synergists or adjuvants in advanced therapeutic modalities, which include adoptive immune cell therapy, cancer vaccines, and immune checkpoint inhibitors. In addition, the discovery of novel potential regulatory factors for tumor immunotherapy from natural products has attracted significant attention. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest progress on how natural products reshape the immunosuppressive landscape and enhance the systemic antitumor response. Ultimately, this review both underscores the immense translational potential of natural products in tumor immunotherapy and highlights critical directions for future standardized research.
Babesiosis/theileriosis is a tick-borne disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Babesia and Theileria. Tick species of genera, such as Ixodes, Rhipicephalus, Haemaphysalis and Hyalomma, transmit these parasites. These diseases threaten livestock productivity and health, particularly in tropical and subtropical areas. These diseases have a significant economic impact due to reduced milk and meat production, reproductive losses, higher veterinary expenses, and, in extreme cases, animal mortality. Even after decades of research, piroplasmosis is still difficult to control and manage. The most common drugs to treat this disease include buparvaquone, diminazene aceturate, and imidocarb dipropionate. These drugs are known for toxicity, and recent reports of the emergence of resistance to these drugs are worrisome. Hence, the development of alternative sustainable control methods is necessary. This review examines the current status of research on plant-based natural extracts/compounds, with particular emphasis on combination therapies integrating natural products with synthetic antiparasitic agents.
Gastric Cancer (GC) poses a substantial global health threat, ranking as the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality among gastrointestinal malignancies. This investigation explores the potential therapeutic implications of plant extracts on gastric cancer, with a specific focus on their effects on the innate immune system. A comprehensive analysis was conducted using 200 Sequence Read Runs (SRRs) thigh samples associated with gastrointestinal cancer tissue, juxtaposed with pathologically confirmed healthy tissues serving as controls. Differential Gene Expression (DGE) testing, encompassing the examination of 28,000 genes, including 95 pivotal genes associated with the innate immune system, was conducted. Findings elucidate alterations in the expression of key pattern recognition receptors, such as TLR2 and TLR4, as well as pivotal molecules within their signaling pathways. In pursuit of potential antagonists for these receptors, virtual screening on the Maestro docking platform in the Schrödinger 2022 package was conducted, evaluating 220,000 diverse tautomer's of plant active substances. Selected candidates, exhibiting superior docking scores across four additional platforms, were subjected to further scrutiny. MMT results showed that nettle extract showed significant cytotoxic effects within 12 hr compared to the control (no treatment) sample, resulting in a 34.7% reduction in AGS cancer cell viability. The flow cytometry test showed that the control group had 71%, and groups treated with nettle extract for two and 12 hr had 65.3 and 67.18% viable cells, respectively. These differences were not statistically significant, indicating that nettle extract selectively preserves healthy living cells. Cytotoxicity tests and cell cycle assessments confirmed the ability of nettle extract to reduce the survival of GC cells. This property makes nettle a promising candidate for drug development in this direction.
Inulin-type fructans are widely recognized as functional polysaccharides with prebiotic properties, while plant polyphenols represent one of the most important classes of natural antioxidants. Increasing evidence demonstrates that interactions between dietary fibers such as inulin and phenolic compounds significantly influence antioxidant capacity, bioavailability, and physiological activity. The present review integrates recent advances regarding the chemical structure of inulin, extraction sources, molecular interactions with polyphenols, and implications for antioxidant activity in functional foods and nutraceuticals. Experimental studies indicate correlations between inulin concentration and antioxidant parameters such as DPPH, FRAP, SOD and CAT activities. Furthermore, physicochemical interactions between cell wall polysaccharides and polyphenols influence the stability, release kinetics and bioefficacy of antioxidant compounds. These findings support the potential development of optimized functional formulations combining inulin-rich plant extracts with polyphenol sources for improved health benefits. The literature was identified through searches of PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases (2000-2026).
Essential oils are extracted from various parts of plants and have many beneficial properties and applications. These include aromatherapy, healthcare, cosmetics, fragrances, agriculture, household cleaning products, and the food industry. Due to their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, essential oils are suitable for use as natural flavorings and preservatives, ensuring food quality maintenance and facilitating clean-label product production. In this context, assessing the quality of essential oils is of paramount importance. Among the various analytical methods, electrochemical methods stand out for their simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and environmental friendliness. Consequently, this review examines the applications, advantages, disadvantages, and limitations of electroanalytical methods proposed to quantify major volatile, electroactive components and determine their antioxidant properties. The objective of this evaluation is to establish a framework for future research that will address existing gaps and shortcomings in electroanalytical methodologies.
Acute inflammatory disorders, including acute lung injury, acute pancreatitis, ischaemia-reperfusion injury, and sepsis, are major clinical challenges characterised by rapid progression, a characteristic cytokine storm, and high mortality rates. The receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) serves as a pivotal multi-ligand pattern recognition receptor that integrates PAMPs and DAMPs. Excessive RAGE engagement triggers detrimental signalling cascades, notably NF-κB and MAPKs, which exacerbate hyperinflammation and lead to progressive organ dysfunction. Consequently, the RAGE axis represents a potent therapeutic target for mitigating hyperinflammation and improving clinical outcomes in acute inflammatory disorders. While initial pharmacological efforts focused on synthetic inhibitors and biologics, there is a shifting focus toward bioactive alternatives with high safety profiles. Here, we present recent molecular insights into RAGE-mediated pathogenesis in acute inflammatory disorders and evaluate current therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, we emphatically summarise the bioactive natural products, including terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, and a xanthone, that prevent and treat acute inflammatory disorders by disrupting RAGE-ligand interactions and suppressing downstream oxidative stress and cytokine release. Integrating these molecular mechanisms with the pharmacological profiling of natural RAGE modulators provides a robust foundation for the development of next-generation therapeutic strategies to improve clinical outcomes in acute inflammatory disorders.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) colonization drives persistent infection and inflammation in bronchiectasis, a condition lacking targeted biotherapies. Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) is a key regulator of immune homeostasis, and its plant-derived activator, Ginkgolic acid C17:1 (GAC 17:1), has emerged as a potential biotechnological therapeutic agent due to its anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of GAC 17:1, a natural compound, in alleviating PA-induced airway injury by targeting the PTEN/mtDNA/TLR9 axis, thereby evaluating its role as a novel biotechnological intervention for immune modulation in bronchiectasis. A rat model of chronic PA-induced bronchial injury was established and divided into four groups: Control, PA-infected, PA-infected + GAC 17:1 (PTEN activator, 2 mg.kg-1), and PA-infected + SF1670 (PTEN inhibitor, 1.5 mg.kg-1). Lung pathology, function (FEV0.3, FVC, PEF), PTEN/TLR9/NF-κB expression (RT-qPCR, Western blot), mtDNA content, cytokine levels (IL-6, IL-17, TGF-β; ELISA), and Th17/Treg cell proportions (flow cytometry) were assessed. PA infection downregulated PTEN, elevated mtDNA/TLR9/NF-κB, increased IL-6/IL-17 and Th17 cells, reduced TGF-β and Tregs, and impaired lung function. Treatment with GAC 17:1, the plant-derived PTEN activator, effectively restored PTEN expression, suppressed mtDNA release and TLR9/NF-κB signaling, rebalanced Th17/Treg immunity, reduced inflammatory cytokines, and significantly improved pulmonary function. Conversely, PTEN inhibition worsened all parameters. This study demonstrates that GAC 17:1, a natural bioactive compound, exerts potent significant effects in PA-related bronchiectasis by activating PTEN and inhibiting the mtDNA/TLR9/NF-κB pathway. Our findings highlight GAC 17:1 as a promising biotechnological candidate for developing plant-derived immunomodulatory therapies against chronic airway infections.