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Osteoarthritis is one of the most common locomotor diseases, with a steadily increasing prevalence and incidence. Loxacon® is a food supplement capsule containing vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts with Boswellia serrata extract and Harpagophytum procumbens extract as its two main active components. The study involved 88 patients at 4 sites. The 88 patients were divided into 3 groups. The first group received physical therapy and Loxacon® capsules for 5 weeks, while the second group (30 patients) received physical therapy only for 5 weeks, and the third group (30 patients) received physical therapy and placebo capsules for 5 weeks. After 5 weeks, physical therapy was discontinued in all three groups and all groups continued Loxacon® capsules exclusively for an additional 60 days. Physical therapy had been carried out by a standard protocol over 5 weeks. Investigated parameters included Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) testing, European Quality of Life (EQ-5D-5L) quality of life test and the Range of Motion (ROM). Among the 4 visual analogue scale (VAS) values investigated from WOMAC, significant change was seen for functionality in all three groups; however, the extent of change was twice as large in the physical therapy + Loxacon® group at Visit 2 in comparison with the other two groups. In the physical therapy + placebo group, improvement was seen only at the 3rd visit when they were also receiving Loxacon® capsules. The most pronounced difference was seen in the minimum clinically important difference index, calculated from the quality of life—VAS, where those taking Loxacon® capsules had a chance 3 times as high to obtain clinical improvement versus the other two groups. Our study confirmed that a combination of boswellic acid and harpagosides is beneficial as an additional therapy in knee OA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclophosphamide (CYP) is a chemotherapeutic drug used to treat various cancers. However, its clinical use is limited due to severe organ damage, particularly to the kidneys. While several phytochemicals have been identified as potential therapeutic targets for CYP nephrotoxicity, the nephroprotective effects of boswellic acid (BOSW) and betulinic acid (BET) have not yet been investigated. Our study used 42 rats divided into six equal groups. The study included six groups: control, CYP (200 mg/kg), CYP+BOSW20 (20 mg/kg), CYP+BOSW40 (40 mg/kg), CYP+BET20 (20 mg/kg), and CYP+BET40 (40 mg/kg). The pre-treatments with BOSW and BET lasted for 14 days, while the application of cyclophosphamide was performed intraperitoneally only on the 4th day of the study. After the experimental protocol, the animals were sacrificed, and their kidney tissues were isolated. Renal function parameters, histological examination, oxidative stress, and inflammation parameters were assessed both biochemically and at the molecular level in kidney tissue. The results showed that oxidative stress and inflammatory response were increased in the kidney tissue of rats treated with CYP, leading to impaired renal histology and function parameters (p < 0.05). Oral administration of both doses of BET and especially high doses of BOSW improved biochemical, oxidative, and inflammatory parameters significantly (p < 0.05). Histological studies also showed the restoration of normal kidney tissue architecture. BOSW and BET have promising biological activity against CYP-induced nephrotoxicity by attenuating inflammation and oxidative stress and enhancing antioxidant status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The role of Acetyl -11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA) in regulating osteoblast differentiation was recently brought to light. Therefore, the current study was designed to explore the osteogenic differentiation capability of AKBA on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) as a potential therapeutic agent to accelerate the healing process in apicoectomy. Materials and Methods: BMMSCs were characterized by flow cytometry. Cellular viability and proliferation assays were used with different concentrations of AKBA. Cells were divided into 5 groups to test osteogenic differentiation: Group I: negative control, Group II: positive control, Group III: BMMSCs were treated with 1 μM AKBA, Group IV: BMMSCs were treated with 0.1 μM AKBA, and Group V: BMMSCs were treated with 0.01 μM AKBA. Mineralization assays and gene expression analysis were assessed, and the significance difference between groups was established at P < 0.05. Results: The flow cytometry analysis demonstrated that BMMSCs had positive expression for mesenchymal stem cell marker and negative expression for hematopoietic markers. The concentration of 0.01 μM gave significantly higher cell density than the untreated cells after 7 days (P < 0.05). Cells treated with 0.1 and 0.01 μM AKBA revealed a significantly higher ALP activity, alizarin red, and von Kossa staining than control groups (P < 0.05). High expression of osteogenic genes was detected in BMMSCs treated with 0.1 μM AKBA (P < 0.05). Conclusions: It was declared that the concentration of 0.1 μM AKBA has no toxicity on BMMSC viability and proliferation with an impact on BMMSC osteogenic differentiation. Therefore, AKBA (0.01 μM) could be used in bone regeneration during periradicular surgery.

Background: Topical delivery of medication is often considered to be the best choice due to benefits such as avoidance of gastric degradation, first pass metabolism along with effortless application and retrieval. In topical delivery, the types of the vehicles and the physicochemical characteristics of drug are the prime variables that control the drug release and the therapeutic efficacy. The main component of Boswellia, Boswellic Acid (BA), is assumed to be accountable for the majority of pharmacologic effects. Nanoemulgel combines the benefits of nano-emulsions and the gels. Materials and Methods: The present work carried out with an objective of formulation of topical nanoemulgel of boswellic acid containing carbopol 934 and liquid paraffin as oil base. Results: The prepared nanoemulgel characterized for the various parameters such as, in vitro, ex vivo permeation and in vivo anti-inflammatory activity. The optimized nanoemulsion consisted of carbopol 934 and surfactant mix ratio (tween 80:Span20::1:1), in 1, 1.5 and 2 % w/w. The in vitro, ex vivo permeation of BA from nanoemulgel were found to be 90±0.33% and 85.5±1.2% at 12 hr respectively. Conclusion: Topical application of BA nanoemulgel formulation significantly reduced the inflammation by reducing the serum IL-6 concentration compared with the arthritic rats. The research findings showed that BA nanoemulgel has the ability to increase penetration through the skin and produce an anti-inflammatory impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) present significant challenges in terms of treatment, often resulting in long-term disabilities. Currently, effective therapies for these injuries are lacking, highlighting the need for innovative and efficacious treatment approaches. In recent years, natural products, including boswellic acid, have been investigated as potential therapeutic agents for various diseases. This study aimed to assess the effects of boswellic acid on spinal cord injury. Twelve male Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups: the control group (SCI) and the boswellic acid group (BoA), each consisting of six rats. The SCI group did not receive any treatment for 56 days following spinal cord injury induction, while the BoA group received daily oral doses of 10 mg/kg boswellic acid for the same duration. Motor recovery was evaluated using the Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan (BBB) locomotor test and spinal tissue analysis was conducted to evaluate the reparative effects of boswellic acid on the injured spinal cord. The results demonstrated a significant improvement in motor recovery in the boswellic acid-treated rats compared to the control group, as indicated by higher BBB scores (p

Abstract COVID-19 appeared as a highly contagious disease after its outbreak in December 2019 by the virus, named SARS-CoV-2. The threat, which originated in Wuhan, China, swiftly became an international emergency. Among different genomic products, spike protein of virus plays a crucial role in the initiation of the infection by binding to the human lung cells, therefore, SARS-CoV-2’s spike protein is a promising therapeutic target. Using a combination of a structure-based virtual screening and biochemical assay, this study seeks possible therapeutic candidates that specifically target the viral spike protein. A database of ~ 850 naturally derived compounds was screened against SARS-CoV-2 spike protein to find natural inhibitors. Using virtual screening and inhibitory experiments, we identified acetyl 11-keto-boswellic acid (AKBA) as a promising molecule for spike protein, which encouraged us to scan the rest of AKBA derivatives in our in-house database via 2D-similarity searching. Later 19 compounds with > 85% similarity with AKBA were selected and docked with receptor binding domain (RBD) of spike protein. Those hits declared significant interactions at the RBD interface, best possess and excellent drug-likeness and pharmacokinetics properties with high gastrointestinal absorption (GIA) without toxicity and allergenicity. Our in-silico observations were eventually validated by in vitro bioassay, interestingly, 10 compounds (A3, A4, C3, C6A, C6B, C6C, C6E, C6H, C6I, and C6J) displayed significant inhibitory ability with good percent inhibition (range: > 72–90). The compounds C3 (90.00%), C6E (91.00%), C6C (87.20%), and C6D (86.23%) demonstrated excellent anti-SARS CoV-2 spike protein activities. The docking interaction of high percent inhibition of inhibitor compounds C3 and C6E was confirmed by MD Simulation. In the molecular dynamics simulation, we observed the stable dynamics of spike protein inhibitor complexes and the influence of inhibitor binding on the protein’s conformational arrangements. The binding free energy ΔGTOTAL of C3 (−38.0 ± 0.08 kcal/mol) and C6E (−41.98 ± 0.08 kcal/mol) respectively indicate a strong binding affinity to Spike protein active pocket. These findings demonstrate that these molecules particularly inhibit the function of spike protein and, therefore have the potential to be evaluated as drug candidates against SARS-CoV-2.

Chemotherapy drug “cyclophosphamide (SP)” can trigger oxidative stress that causes hematotoxicity and myelotoxicity, therefore an agent that can suppress the negative effects of cyclophosphamide is needed. Boswellic acid is an herbal medicine that has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of boswellic acid (BA) in hematology parameter rats induced by cyclophosphamid. Animal were allocated in to six groups, each group consists of 5 rats, the KS: healthy group, KSP: cyclophosphamide group; KSD: comparison group, and BA groups (K1;K2;K3). The treatment groups were given cyclophosphamide (SP) at dose of 150 mg/kg body weight (BW) i.p. The BA groups (K1,K2,K3) were given BA at dose of 250 mg/kg BW orally for 6 consecutive days and SP on day 1 (K1), day 4 (K2), day 6 (K3). The results showed that BA administration (K2 and K3) can help increase/maintain the amount of hematological parameters including hemoglobin, hematocrit, and erythrocytes. Administrating BA for 6 days consecutively before SP (K3) has shown best results on hematological parameters than the others including the comparison group. These results suggest that BA may have a potentia herbal therapeutic agents that can mitigate cyclophosphamide-induced hematotoxicity manifestations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Frankincense preparations are frequently used as traditional antiinflammatory remedies in folk medicine with increasing popularity. Boswellic acids (BAs), especially 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-βBA (AKBA), are unique anti-inflammatory principles of frankincense, with multiple pharmacological actions and target proteins. We recently showed that AKBA favorably impacts lipid mediator (LM) networks in innate immune cells, by modulation of lipoxygenase (LOX) activities. Thus, AKBA binds to allosteric sites in 5-LOX, shifting the regiospecificity to a 12/ 15-lipoxygnating enzyme, and to an analogous site in 15-LOX-1, leading to enzyme activation, which favors specialized pro-resolving mediator (SPM) formation at the expense of leukotriene production. Methods: Here, we investigated Boswellin super® (BSR), a commercially available frankincense extract with ≥30% AKBA, used as remedy that approved efficacy in osteoarthritis trials, for its ability to modulate LM pathways in human monocytederived macrophage (MDM) phenotypes, neutrophils, and neutrophil/platelet coincubations. LM profiling was performed by using targeted ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS-MS). Results: BSR concentration-dependently (10--100 μg/ml) suppressed formation of pro-inflammatory 5-LOX products including LTB4 in exotoxin-stimulated M1- MDM and neutrophils, and strongly elevated 12/15-LOX products and SPM in activated M2-MDM and neutrophil/platelet cocultures, starting at 10 μg/mL. Also, BSR (≥10 μg/mL) induced robust 12/15-LOX product and SPM generation in resting M2-MDM, which was further markedly elevated when exogenous docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosahexaenoic acid (EPA) were supplied, and induced translocation of 15-LOX from a soluble to a particulate locale in M2 MDM. Discussion: We conclude that BSR especially when co-added with DHA and EPA, promotes the LM class switch in innate immune cells from pro-inflammatory to pro-resolving mediators, which might be a plausible mechanism underlying the anti-inflammatory actions of BSR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Frankincense preparations are frequently used as traditional anti-inflammatory remedies in folk medicine with increasing popularity. Boswellic acids (BAs), especially 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-βBA (AKBA), are unique anti-inflammatory principles of frankincense, with multiple pharmacological actions and target proteins. We recently showed that AKBA favorably impacts lipid mediator (LM) networks in innate immune cells, by modulation of lipoxygenase (LOX) activities. Thus, AKBA binds to allosteric sites in 5-LOX, shifting the regiospecificity to a 12/15-lipoxygnating enzyme, and to an analogous site in 15-LOX-1, leading to enzyme activation, which favors specialized pro-resolving mediator (SPM) formation at the expense of leukotriene production.Methods: Here, we investigated Boswellin super® (BSR), a commercially available frankincense extract with ≥30% AKBA, used as remedy that approved efficacy in osteoarthritis trials, for its ability to modulate LM pathways in human monocyte-derived macrophage (MDM) phenotypes, neutrophils, and neutrophil/platelet co-incubations. LM profiling was performed by using targeted ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS-MS).Results: BSR concentration-dependently (10–100 μg/ml) suppressed formation of pro-inflammatory 5-LOX products including LTB4 in exotoxin-stimulated M1-MDM and neutrophils, and strongly elevated 12/15-LOX products and SPM in activated M2-MDM and neutrophil/platelet cocultures, starting at 10 μg/mL. Also, BSR (≥10 μg/mL) induced robust 12/15-LOX product and SPM generation in resting M2-MDM, which was further markedly elevated when exogenous docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosahexaenoic acid (EPA) were supplied, and induced translocation of 15-LOX from a soluble to a particulate locale in M2 MDM.Discussion: We conclude that BSR especially when co-added with DHA and EPA, promotes the LM class switch in innate immune cells from pro-inflammatory to pro-resolving mediators, which might be a plausible mechanism underlying the anti-inflammatory actions of BSR.

Abstract Objective Pharmacological treatments of osteoarthritis (OA) have several side effects. Boswellia serrata resin (frankincense) is rich in boswellic acids that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects; though, their oral bioavailability is low. The aim of this study was evaluation of the clinical effectiveness of frankincense extract in the treatment of knee OA. In a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial, eligible patients with knee OA were randomly divided into two groups of drug (33 patients) and control (37 patients), to use oily solution of frankincense extract or placebo, respectively, on the involved knee three times daily for four weeks. WOMAC (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index), VAS (visual analogue scale; for pain severity), and PGA (patient global assessment) scores were determined before and after intervention. Results For all evaluated outcome variables, there was a significant decrease from baseline in both groups (P

This study aimed to develop a local 3 D-printed bioactive graft using poly-caprolacton (PCL) as a drug carrier and 3-O-acetyl-β-boswellic acid (β-ABA) as an anticancer compound. β-ABA-loaded 3 D-printed scaffold was fabricated and physically characterized. The results indicated more desirable mechanical and physical properties of the β-ABA-loaded PCL mat in comparison with the PCL scaffold. Following sustained release of β-ABA, the β-ABA-loaded PCL scaffold revealed selective cytotoxic activity against melanoma cells, while the PCL + ABA with the bolus delivery of β-ABA was toxic against fibroblast cells. Followed by the induction of apoptosis in melanoma cells at the gene level, the result of the western blot showed that the β-ABA-loaded scaffold significantly up-regulated P53 and down-regulated BCL2, with an increment in the ratio of Bax/BCL2. The selective anti-cancer properties of β-ABA-loaded 3 D printed scaffold against melanoma cells indicated that this scaffold could be potentially used as a bioactive graft to improve the melanoma treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Boswellic acid (BA), a phytoconstituent obtained from Boswellia serrata, suffers from several limitations after oral administration such as poor systemic absorption, high first-pass metabolism and high frequency of dose requirement, which creates a need to develop an alternative route for drug administration via novel drug delivery formulation. The present research work aims at developing ultradeformable vesicular carriers (transferosomes) for transdermal delivery of boswellic acid to effectively deliver the drug into deeper layers of the skin reaching the target site and thus improving its systemic bioavailability. Ultradeformable vesicles were prepared by thin-film hydration technique, and the formulation was optimized using 32 full factorial design where the amount of lecithin (mg) and concentration of surfactant (%) were considered as independent variables. The formulated boswellic acid-loaded vesicles were incorporated into transdermal film via solvent evaporation technique using the blend of polymers such as starch and HPMC K4M. Results The BA-loaded transferosomes were optimized based on vesicle size (nm) and drug entrapment efficiency (%EE), and the results were found to be 205.4 ± 1.215 nm and 86.39 ± 0.019%, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of optimized batch showed spherical shape of vesicles with identified lamellarity, surface charge of vesicles with high negative value − 15.2 mV that suggests electrostatic repulsion between vesicles, while the formulation showed good deformability index of 11.31 ± 0.032% due to use of Tween 80 as surfactant. In vitro permeation study demonstrated sustained release pattern of 96.53 ± 0.023% up to 24 h. Also, the in vitro drug diffusion study was carried out for transfersomal transdermal film which exhibited enhanced permeation and sustained retention of drug up to 94.71 ± 0.019% for 24 h. Conclusion Accordingly, the research work suggested that the transferosomes provided an efficient nanosized carriers for enhanced permeation of boswellic acid into deeper layers of skin and could successfully exhibit its therapeutic effect.

Objective: Pharmacological treatments of osteoarthritis (OA) have several side effects. Boswellia serrata resin (frankincense) is rich in boswellic acids that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects; though, their oral bioavailability is low. The aim of this study was evaluation of the clinical effectiveness of frankincense extract in the treatment of knee OA. In a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial, eligible patients with knee OA were randomly divided into two groups of drug (33 patients) and control (37 patients), to use oily solution of frankincense extract or placebo, respectively, on the involved knee three times daily for four weeks. WOMAC (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index), VAS (visual analogue scale; for pain severity), and PGA (patient global assessment) scores were determined before and after intervention. Results: For all evaluated outcome variables, there was a significant decrease from baseline in both groups (P < 0.001 for all). Furthermore, the end-of-intervention values for all parameters were significantly lower in drug group than placebo group (P < 0.001 for all), showing more effectiveness of drug compared to placebo. Conclusion: Topical oily solution containing enriched extract of boswellic acids could decrease pain severity and improve the function in patients with knee OA. Trial Registration Trial registration number: IRCT20150721023282N14. Trial registration date: September 20, 2020. The study was retrospectively registered in Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Specialized pro‐resolving mediators (SPM), primarily produced in innate immune cells, exert crucial bioactions for resolving inflammation. Among various lipoxygenases (LOX), 15‐LOX‐1 is key for SPM biosynthesis, but cellular activation principles of 15‐LOX‐1 are unexplored. It was shown that 3‐O‐acetyl‐11‐keto‐β‐boswellic acid (AKBA) shifts 5‐LOX regiospecificity from 5‐ to 12‐lipoxygenation products. Here, it is demonstrated that AKBA additionally activates cellular 15‐LOX‐1 via an allosteric site accomplishing robust SPM formation in innate immune cells, particularly in M2 macrophages. Compared to ionophore, AKBA‐induced LOX activation is Ca2+‐ and phosphorylation‐independent, with modest induction of 5‐LOX products. AKBA docks into a groove between the catalytic and regulatory domains of 15‐LOX‐1 interacting with R98; replacement of R98 by alanine abolishes AKBA‐induced 15‐LOX product formation in HEK293 cells. In zymosan‐induced murine peritonitis, AKBA strikingly elevates SPM levels and promotes inflammation resolution. Together, targeted allosteric modulation of LOX activities governs SPM formation and offers new concepts for inflammation resolution pharmacotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: We present an HPLC method development and validation for the quantitation of boswellic acids in Boswellia resin samples and construction of a multivariate model for the clustering of different sample species. The resin of Boswellia plant species has been used since ancient times for its several bio-active curative effects. In modern times, extracts of this resin are still widely commercialized on the food supplements and nutraceuticals market. Nowadays the legislation on botanical extracts and the increasing demand for their safety and traceability are setting new standards for their chemical characterization. In this work we present an easy, feasible and rugged HPLC-UV-based approach for the quantitation of boswellic acids in food-supplement-grade resin extracts of Boswellia plant species. This method can be used for quality control purposes as well as for studying their differences in regional origin, years of harvesting and species-related differences. The method employs a C18 (3 × 150 mm, 3 µm) analytical HPLC column, and the separation is carried out through a gradient of acetonitrile/water with 0.1% formic acid. The method was validated following the ICH guidelines and used to quantitate different samples of commercial resin of Boswellia carteri and serrata together with other samples from unknown species. The six known boswellic acids were identified and quantified in all the analyzed samples. The results were used to build a multivariate model to graphically appreciate their difference through their clustering. The model was then augmented by adding further quantitation data for boswellic acids belonging to different species of Boswellia obtained by another scientific publications to increase the number of studied samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Specialized pro‐resolving mediators (SPM), primarily produced in innate immune cells, exert crucial bioactions for resolving inflammation. Among various lipoxygenases (LOX), 15‐LOX‐1 is key for SPM biosynthesis, but cellular activation principles of 15‐LOX‐1 are unexplored. It was shown that 3‐O‐acetyl‐11‐keto‐β‐boswellic acid (AKBA) shifts 5‐LOX regiospecificity from 5‐ to 12‐lipoxygenation products. Here, it is demonstrated that AKBA additionally activates cellular 15‐LOX‐1 via an allosteric site accomplishing robust SPM formation in innate immune cells, particularly in M2 macrophages. Compared to ionophore, AKBA‐induced LOX activation is Ca2+‐ and phosphorylation‐independent, with modest induction of 5‐LOX products. AKBA docks into a groove between the catalytic and regulatory domains of 15‐LOX‐1 interacting with R98; replacement of R98 by alanine abolishes AKBA‐induced 15‐LOX product formation in HEK293 cells. In zymosan‐induced murine peritonitis, AKBA strikingly elevates SPM levels and promotes inflammation resolution. Together, targeted allosteric modulation of LOX activities governs SPM formation and offers new concepts for inflammation resolution pharmacotherapy.

While β-boswellic acid is very readily available by extraction from frankincense resin, the accessibility of α-boswellic from the resin involved great effort and tedious purification procedures. Alternatively, a partial synthesis from readily available oleanolic acid was developed, the key steps of which are a reduction of the carboxyl group C-28 furnishing a methyl group, followed by palladium-assisted oxidation of the methyl group C-24, and configurational inversion at C-3. [Display omitted] • α-Boswellic acid, a main ingredient of frankincense, has previously been isolated. • Contrary to its analog, β-boswellic acid, its availability is diminished. • A first partial synthesis from well accessible oleanolic acid was developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common locomotor diseases, with a steadily increasing prevalence and incidence. Loxacon ® is a food supplement capsule containing vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts with Boswellia serrata extract and Harpagophytum procumbens extract as its two main active components. The study involved 88 patients at 4 sites. The 88 patients were divided into 3 groups. The first group received physical therapy and Loxacon ® capsules for 5 weeks, while the second group (30 patients) received physical therapy only for 5 weeks, and the third group (30 patients) received physical therapy and placebo capsules for 5 weeks. After 5 weeks, physical therapy was discontinued in all three groups and all groups continued Loxacon ® capsules exclusively for an additional 60 days. Physical therapy had been carried out by a standard protocol over 5 weeks. Investigated parameters included Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) testing, European Quality of Life (EQ-5D-5L) quality of life test and the Range of Motion (ROM). Among the 4 visual analogue scale (VAS) values investigated from WOMAC, significant change was seen for functionality in all three groups; however, the extent of change was twice as large in the physical therapy + Loxacon ® group at Visit 2 in comparison with the other two groups. In the physical therapy + placebo group, improvement was seen only at the 3rd visit when they were also receiving Loxacon ® capsules. The most pronounced difference was seen in the minimum clinically important difference index, calculated from the quality of life-VAS, where those taking Loxacon ® capsules had a chance 3 times as high to obtain clinical improvement versus the other two groups. Our study confirmed that a combination of boswellic acid and harpagosides is beneficial as an additional therapy in knee OA.

Phytopathogenic Fusarium species are restricting factors causing diseases and yield loss in crop production. As part of exploration for pesticides from medicinal plants, this study aimed to isolate and characterize bioactive compounds from Lantana camara L. and evaluate their efficiency against Fusarium phytopathogens. Phytochemical investigation of ethyl acetate leaf extract led to separation of lantadene A (22-angeloyloxy-9-hydroxy-3-oxo-olean-12-en-28-oic acid) and boswellic acid (11-keto-β-boswellic acid). The chemical structures of the aforementioned compounds were confirmed using physical properties, spectroscopic analysis, and published data. Lantadene A exhibited significant antifungal activity against F. subglutinans, F. proliferatum, F. solani, F. graminearum, and F. semitectum with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) less than or equal to 0.63 mg/mL. Boswellic acid exhibited strong activity (MIC = 0.63 mg/mL) against F. subglutinans and F. semitectum. In terms of their toxicity towards Raw 264.7 cells, lantadene A and boswellic acid recorded half-maximal inhibitory concentration values of 84.2 μg/mL and 186.6 μg/mL, respectively. Both lantadene A and boswellic acid had no phytotoxic effect against seed germination and seedling root length. Lantadene A and boswellic acid have strong potential to be further investigated as lead natural fungicides (biopesticides) to control Fusarium crop diseases.

Petroleum oil leakage and industrial oily waste on the water surface are sustainable pollutions. The removal process by eco-friendly adsorbents is a critical challenge. It also requires sustainable treatment. The natural hydrophobic material such as abietic acid, boswellic acid, and chitosan was added to magnetite nanoparticles with different concentrations of 10, 15, and 20% on its surface. The magnetite acquires partially hydrophobic properties. The prepared natural adsorbents were analyzed by employing wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), particle size and zeta potential, and contact angle measurements. Chitosan adsorbs at the outer surface of magnetite nanoparticles while boswellic and abietic absorb in bulk. All prepared adsorbents are effective in adsorbing waste oil from the water surface. The contact angle of MB20 (magnetite/20 percent boswellic) is greater than that of MA20 and MC20 (magnetite/20% abietic or chitosan, respectively), indicating that it has more hydrophobic characteristics. The oil removal efficiency and adsorption capacity of MB20 are the highest values 57.6%, and 24 g/g, respectively. All eco-friendly adsorbents are nontoxic with low-cost production and are used many times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boswellic acids, triterpenoids derived from the genus Boswellia (Burseraceae), are known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor efficacy. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, non-infectious inflammatory skin disease. However, the effects of α-boswellic acid on atopic dermatitis have not been studied. Therefore, in this study we examined the expression level of pro-inflammatory cytokines, histopathological analysis, and physiological data from BALB/c mice with atopic-like dermatitis induced by 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene and TNF-α/IFN-γ-stimulated HaCaT cells to better understand the agent's anti-atopic dermatitis efficacy. First, we found that α-boswellic reduced the epidermal thickening, mast cell numbers, and dermal infiltration of 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene-induced atopic-like dermatitis in BALB/c mice. Furthermore, we also found that α-boswellic acid can restore transepidermal water loss and skin reddening in mice. In human keratinocytes inflamed by TNF-α/IFN-γ, α-boswellic acid inhibited MAP kinase activation and showed a reduction in NF-κB nuclear translocation. Finally, α-boswellic acid can reduce the expression level of cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8) following the stimulation of TNF-α/IFN-γ in HaCaT cells. Taken together, our study suggests that α-boswellic acids are a potential component for the development of anti-atopic dermatitis drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triterpenic acids are a widespread class of phytocompounds which have been found to possess valuable therapeutic properties such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, lipolytic, antiviral, and antiparasitic effects. They are a subclass of triterpenes bearing a characteristic lipophilic structure that imprints unfavorable in vivo properties which subsequently limit their applications. The early investigation of the mechanism of action (MOA) of a drug candidate can provide valuable information regarding the possible side effects and drug interactions that may occur after administration. The current paper aimed to summarize the most recent (last 5 years) studies regarding the MOA of betulinic acid, boswellic acid, glycyrrhetinic acid, madecassic acid, moronic acid, and pomolic acid in order to provide scientists with updated and accessible material on the topic that could contribute to the development of future studies; the paper stands as the sequel of our previously published paper regarding the MOA of triterpenic acids with therapeutic value. The recent literature published on the topic has highlighted the role of triterpenic acids in several signaling pathways including PI3/AKT/mTOR, TNF-alpha/NF-kappa B, JNK-p38, HIF-α/AMPK, and Grb2/Sos/Ras/MAPK, which trigger their various biological activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: : Boswellia serrata, an economically vital ethnic tree of dry deciduous forests to provides oleo-gum-resin of pharmaceutical significance. The marker molecules of this resin are penta-cyclic tri-terpenoids commonly known as boswellic acids (BAs). Methods: : The topographical oleo-gum-resin samples were used for chemo-profiling of the BAs in methanol extracts by HPLC analysis. The anti-proliferative potential of extracts was evaluated on eight cell lines by MTT assay. The antibacterial activity was evaluated by the disk diffusion process and Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of extracts were performed by the microdilution assay. The antioxidant potentials of extract samples were accomplished by DPPH scavenging and ABTS assays. Results: : The sample collected from Haldwani (BS-H) has been given the good yield of the extract (65.1%) with the lowest percentage of BAs (9.6%). Shivpuri, Neemuch, and Mandsaur are topographical locations in the state of Madhya Pradesh (M.P.) and are distinguished as the oleo-gum-resin trading sites in India. The methanol extract of Neemuch collection (BS-N2) was contained enhanced percentage of KBA (keto-β-boswellic acid) (8.4%) with highest yield of the extract (70.1%), while Mandsaur collection (BS-M1) was contained the highest percentage of AKBA (6.9%) with enhanced amount of BAs (39.89%). The extracts of M.P. samples have been shown inhibition of lung cancer cell-line with IC50: 2.34–13.06 µg/mL, and the percent inhibition is ranged from 7.0 to 93.67%. All these extracts have been displayed significant antimicrobial activity against Mycobacterium smegmatis (MS) (MIC: 2.4–156 µg/mL). Most importantly, Mandsaur (BS-M1) and Neemuch (BS-N2) collections have shown significant activity against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (SE) strain with MIC of 2.4 µg/mL. All the extracts were shown significant antioxidant activity with IC50: 2.7–9.9 µg/mL, and BS-N2 was displayed 78.4% of free radical scavenging reduction activity. Similarly, ABTS was complemented the DPHH scavenging assay. Cluster correlation analyses of chemo-types with biological activities were performed among the different topographical samples. Conclusion: : The variations of activities among the extracts were related to their chemical compositions. The topographical samples with the improved percentage of KBA and AKBA were shown highly significant anticancer, antibacterial and antioxidant activities. Cluster correlation analyses of all samples were assisted to compare the BAs contents with bioactivities.

Boswellic acids are biologically active pentacyclic terpenoid compounds derived from Boswellia sp. plants. Extracts containing these acids have a number of positive effects on human health, especially in the treatment of inflammation, arthritis, or asthma. With increasing resistance to common antibiotics, boswellic acid-containing extracts could serve as an alternative or work in synergy with commonly available preparations. This study aims to determine the effect of boswellic acids on suspension cells and biofilms of Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterococcus faecalis, and Escherichia coli. The antimicrobial and antibiofilm effect found was compared with commonly available antibiotics to control these undesirable microorganisms. The synergistic effect of boswellic acids and common antibiotics on the growth of these microorganisms was also determined. All tested microorganisms showed a positive additive effect of antibiotics and boswellic acid extract. The most significant effect was found in Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212 in a combination of 0.2 × MIC80 erythromycin (0.2 mg/L) and 0.8 × MIC80 boswellic acid extract (16 mg/L). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bisphenol-A (BPA) and gamma-radiation are two risky environmental pollutants that human beings are exposed to in everyday life and consequently they threaten human health via inducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and eventually tissue damage. This study aims at appraising the protective effect of Boswellic Acid (BA) (250 mg/kg/day, orally) administration on BPA (150 mg/kg/day, i.p) and γ-irradiation (IR) (3 Gy/week for 4 weeks up to cumulative dose of 12 Gy/experimental course) for 4 weeks-induced damage to liver and heart tissues of rats. The present results indicated a significant improvement against damage induced by BPA and IR revealed in biochemical investigations (hepatic PPAR-α/P38 and cardiac ET-1/Calcineurin-A/NFATc1/P38) and histopathological examination of liver and heart. It could be concluded that BA possesses a protective effect against these two deleterious environmental pollutants which attracted major global concerns due to their serious toxicological impact on human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, chitosan-coated niosome (ChN) was utilised for bioavailability enhancement of curcumin (Cn) and boswellic acids (BAs). The bare niosome (BN) was prepared by the heating method and optimised by using the mixture design procedure. Physicochemical stability, as well as the in vitro release, and bioavailability of Cn and BAs in BN and ChN were studied. The optimised BN had a mean diameter of 70.00 ± 0.21 nm and surface charge of −31.00 ± 0.25 mv, which changed to 60.01 ± 0.20 nm and +40.00 ± 0, respectively, in ChN. In-vitro digestion study revealed chitosan layer augmented the bioavailability of Cn and BAs to 79.02 ± 0.13 and 81 ± 0.10, respectively. The chitosan layer obviously improved the physical stability of Cn and BA in the niosome vehicle, by means of vesicle size, zeta potential, and encapsulation efficiency. The ChN was considered to be promising delivery system for increasing the bioavailability of Cn and BAs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Olibanum (OLIB) and its component boswellic acid (BOSA) are suggested to have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and neuroprotective effects. In the present work, we examined effect of OLIB, and BOSA on the synaptic plasticity impairment and oxidative stress indicators in a rat model of neuro-inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Materials and Methods: Forty rats were divided into the following four groups: (1) Control, (2) LPS, (3) OLIB (200 mg/kg), and (4) BOSA (10 mg/kg). The animals were pre-treated with OLIB extract, BOSA or the vehicle 30 min before LPS (1 mg/kg) administration, for 6 days. On the 6th day, electrophysiological recording was done. Long-term potentiation (LTP) from CA1 area of hippocampus was assessed. The animals were then sacrificed and their brains were removed for evaluation of the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), nitric oxide (NO) metabolites, malondialdehyde (MDA), thiol, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in the cortex. Results: Administration of LPS decreased amplitude (p

Chemical diversity of natural products with drug‐like features has attracted much attention from medicine to develop more safe and effective drugs. Their anti‐inflammatory, antitumor, analgesic, and other therapeutic properties are sometimes more successful than chemical drugs in controlling disease due to fewer drug resistance and side effects and being more tolerable in a long time. Frankincense, the oleo gum resin extracted from the Boswellia species, contains some of these chemicals. The anti‐inflammatory effect of its main ingredient, boswellic acid, has been traditionally used to treat many diseases, mainly those target memory functions. In this review, we have accumulated research evidence from the beneficial effect of Frankincense consumption in memory improvement and the prevention of inflammation and cancer. Besides, we have discussed the molecular pathways mediating the therapeutic effects of this natural supplement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently tissue repairing bone grafted materials have been greater properties than the recapitulating intramembranous regeneration of natural bone especially cartilage damage regeneration. In this present work was designed and developed for the enhancement of chondrocyte generation for cartilage repair. Boswellic acid (BA) is a traditional compound used for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Boswellic acid subjected to involve the preparation of hydroxyapatite (HAP) and HAP-BA compounds were functionalized with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) to promote the extra-cellular matrix. HAP, HAP-BA and HAP-BA-CMC composites were characterized via their physicochemical properties through FTIR, XRD, SEM and TEM techniques. The antibacterial activity and chondrocyte cell variability were tested. At 14 days, HAP-BA-CMC composite was observed 67% of cell viability. The chondrocyte cell adhesion on the HAP-BA-CMC composite was investigated and it observed polygonal filopodia. From the results suggest that HAP-BA-CMC composite can improve the chondrocyte production for repair of damaged cartilage.

Background: Masticatory myofascial pain syndrome (MMPS) is a soft tissue inflammatory disorder that leads to acute or chronic localized pain and stiffness in the muscles. Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) plays a crucial role in mediating pain perceptions in humans by transferring methyl groups to catecholamines. This process requires adequate S-adenosyl methionine (SAMe). A reduction in SAMe leads to COMT inhibition. Boswellia serrata possesses multiple therapeutic benefits and is used for treating chronic pain., Aim: The study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) by targeting COMT . Methodology: Molecular docking and dynamic simulations were conducted using Desmond software from Schrödinger LLC, USA, to evaluate the interaction between COMT protein and AKBA ligands. The COMT protein structure was sourced from the Protein Data Bank and preprocessed using optimized potentials for liquid simulations. Molecular docking identified potential binding sites between COMT and AKBA through hydrogen bonding, resulting in a docking score of -6.0 kcal/mol., Results: The molecular docking revealed a docking score of -6.0 kcal/mol for the interaction between COMT and AKBA. The dynamic simulation demonstrated that the COMT-AKBA complex remained stable within a 3.0 Angstrom range over 60 nanoseconds. These findings indicate stable natural small molecular interactions between COMT and AKBA., Conclusion: AKBA exhibits potential as a therapeutic agent for MMPS, demonstrating stable interactions with COMT. These findings warrant further in vitro and in vivo analyses to confirm efficacy., Competing Interests: Human subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve human participants or tissue. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Suresh et al.)

In the present paper we have described the importance of the degree of agua-phobia characteristics of Psorolin B ointment and how such formulation would exceptionally be useful in treating Psoriasis. The ecosystem outside of is high in water (in the form of humidity) and skin also has the property of excreting various waste metabolites through sweat which would eventually both hinder and remove water soluble constituents from skin easily whereas such removal would be low if the constituents are agua-phobic. Scientific aspects of the study methodology and findings are given in detail in the article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Triterpenes (30‐carbon isoprene compounds) represent a large and highly diverse class of natural products that play various physiological functions in plants. The triterpene biosynthetic enzymes, particularly those catalyzing the late‐stage regio‐selective modifications are not well characterized. The bark of select Boswellia trees, e.g., B. serrata exudes specialized oleo‐gum resin in response to wounding, which is enriched with boswellic acids (BAs), a unique class of C3α‐epimeric pentacyclic triterpenes with medicinal properties. The bark possesses a network of resin secretory structures comprised of vertical and horizontal resin canals, and amount of BAs in bark increases considerably in response to wounding. To investigate BA biosynthetic enzymes, we conducted tissue‐specific transcriptome profiling and identified a wound‐responsive BAHD acetyltransferase (BsAT1) of B. serrata catalyzing the late‐stage C3α‐O‐acetylation reactions in the BA biosynthetic pathway. BsAT1 catalyzed C3α‐O‐acetylation of αBA, βBA, and 11‐keto‐βBA in vitro and in planta assays to produce all the major C3α‐O‐acetyl‐BAs (3‐acetyl‐αBA, 3‐acetyl‐βBA, and 3‐acetyl‐11‐keto‐βBA) found in B. serrata bark and oleo‐gum resin. BsAT1 showed strict specificity for BA scaffold, whereas it did not acetylate the more common C3β‐epimeric pentacyclic triterpenes. The analysis of steady‐state kinetics using various BAs revealed distinct substrate affinity and catalytic efficiency. BsAT1 transcript expression coincides with increased levels of C3α‐O‐acetyl‐BAs in bark in response to wounding, suggesting a role of BsAT1 in wound‐induced biosynthesis of C3α‐O‐acetyl‐BAs. Overall, the results provide new insights into the biosynthesis of principal chemical constituents of Boswellia oleo‐gum resin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• BSA and SEL in the pegylated polymeric micelles formula as PMBS can be a potential therapy in RTBI. • Post-treatment with PMBS enhanced behavioral and histological outcomes. • PMBS regulated miR-155 and miR-146a expression, as well as the Foxo3a/Klotho/BDNF signaling pathways. • The use of PMBS is recommended to prevent long-term chronic neurodegenerative consequences associated with RTBI. This study aims to explore the protective machinery of pegylated polymeric micelles of boswellic acid-selenium (PMBS) against secondary neuronal damage triggered by mild repetitive traumatic brain injury (RTBI). After PMBS characterization in terms of particle size, size distribution, zeta potential, and transmission electronic microscopy, the selected formula was used to investigate its potency against experimental RTBI. Five groups of rats were used; group 1 (control) and the other four groups were subjected to RTBI. Groups 2 was RTBI positive control, while 3, 4, and 5 received boswellic acid (BSA), selenium (SEL), and PMBS, respectively. The open-field behavioral test was used for behavioral assessment. Subsequently, brain tissues were utilized for hematoxylin and eosin staining, Nissl staining, Western blotting, and ELISA in addition to evaluating microRNA expression (miR-155 and miR-146a). The behavioral changes, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation triggered by RTBI were all improved by PMBS. Moreover, PMBS mitigated excessive glutamate-induced excitotoxicity and the dysregulation in miR-155 and miR-146a expression. Besides, connexin43 (Cx43) expression as well as klotho and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) were upregulated with diminished neuronal cell death and apoptosis because of reduced Forkhead Box class O3a(Foxo3a) expression in the PMBS-treated group. The current study has provided evidence of the benefits produced by incorporating BSA and SEL in PEGylated polymeric micelles formula. PMBS is a promising therapy for RTBI. Its beneficial effects are attributed to the manipulation of many pathways, including the regulation of miR-155 and miR-146a expression, as well as the BDNF /Klotho/Foxo3a signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Frankincense is a gum resin of Boswellia trees genus that has been favored in the Iranian traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. Glioblastoma is one of the most malignant adult cancers that is resistant to radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of an active ingredient of frankincense, 3-O-acetyl-beta-boswellic acid, on interleukin-6 expression in human glioblastoma cell line. Methods: Human glioblastoma cell line was obtained from cell bank of Pasteur Institute of Iran, and treated with different concentrations of 3-O-acetyl-beta-boswellic acid for 24 hours. The effect on cell survival was evaluated using MTT assay, and half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) was calculated as well. Cultured cells were treated with concentrations of 5, 15, and 25 μM of 3-O-acetyl-beta-boswellic acid. RNA was extracted and converted to complementary DNA (cDNA), and used for interleukin-6 expression studies via real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Findings: IC50 was calculated as 39.88 μM. 3-O-acetyl-beta-boswellic acid at concentrations of 5, 15, and 25 μM significantly reduced the expression of interleukin-6 in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study indicate anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects of 3-O-acetyl-beta-boswellic acid by decreasing the expression of interleukin-6 in the inflammatory environment of glioblastoma tumor cells. Therefore, it can be considered as a beneficial ingredient in the treatment of glioblastoma.

The article describes the experience of application of the combined antiscar agent containing boswellic acid, cepalin, hyaluronic acid and allantoin with the subsequent application of the prolonged action pressing patch with the matrix of active release of cepalin and allantoin at the early stages of formation and maturation of scars in the patients with postoperative, post-burn scars and traces after cosmetic manipulations in the form of persistent skin redness. A comparison of the efficacy of two therapy schemes for 43 patients aged 18 to 45 in two groups was shown. When evaluating the effectiveness of the therapy by analyzing the data of evaluation scales, ultrasound, dermatoscopy, a greater effectiveness of the combined antiscar agent and pressure patch in comparison with the use of hydrating agents and silicone patches was noted.

In several parts of the world, Boswellia sacra Fluck. is one of the most commonly used herbs for the treatment of arthritis. Its usage should be validated in light of recent findings of haematotoxicity. This study was aimed to determine the effect of chronic administration of standardized methanolic extract of frankincense on blood cell count in experimental animals. Using high-performance liquid chromatography, the active constituents of B. sacra extract; boswellic acids were analyzed. The effect of three different doses of the extract (250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg) on different blood cells and associated parameters was investigated. The behavior, food, and water consumption of the rats were recorded. Boswellic acids were present in varying amounts with α-boswellic acid and β-boswellic acid present in more amounts compared to other boswellic acids in the extract. All three doses tested had no effect on the animals' behavior, food consumption, or weight gain. The administration of a low (500 mg/kg) and high (1000 mg/kg) dose of the extract resulted in a non-dose dependent reduction in MCH (p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively), but no other blood parameters were significantly affected. The B. sacra extract produces hypochromic normocytic anemia in rats at higher doses of 500 and 1000 mg/kg and this effect was not dose-dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boswellic acids are biologically active pentacyclic terpenoid compounds derived from Boswellia sp. plants. Extracts containing these acids have a number of positive effects on human health, especially in the treatment of inflammation, arthritis, or asthma. With increasing resistance to common antibiotics, boswellic acid-containing extracts could serve as an alternative or work in synergy with commonly available preparations. This study aims to determine the effect of boswellic acids on suspension cells and biofilms of Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterococcus faecalis, and Escherichia coli. The antimicrobial and antibiofilm effect found was compared with commonly available antibiotics to control these undesirable microorganisms. The synergistic effect of boswellic acids and common antibiotics on the growth of these microorganisms was also determined. All tested microorganisms showed a positive additive effect of antibiotics and boswellic acid extract. The most significant effect was found in Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212 in a combination of 0.2 × MIC80 erythromycin (0.2 mg/L) and 0.8 × MIC80 boswellic acid extract (16 mg/L).

Objective: Olibanum (OLIB) and its component boswellic acid (BOSA) are suggested to have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and neuroprotective effects. In the present work, we examined effect of OLIB, and BOSA on the synaptic plasticity impairment and oxidative stress indicators in a rat model of neuro-inflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Materials and Methods: Forty rats were divided into the following four groups: (1) Control, (2) LPS, (3) OLIB (200 mg/kg), and (4) BOSA (10 mg/kg). The animals were pre-treated with OLIB extract, BOSA or the vehicle 30 min before LPS (1 mg/kg) administration, for 6 days. On the 6th day, electrophysiological recording was done. Long-term potentiation (LTP) from CA1 area of hippocampus was assessed. The animals were then sacrificed and their brains were removed for evaluation of the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), nitric oxide (NO) metabolites, malondialdehyde (MDA), thiol, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in the cortex. Results: Administration of LPS decreased amplitude (p<0.001) and slope (p<0.01) of field excitatory postsynaptic potential (fEPSP). Pre-treatment enhanced these parameters (p<0.05 to p<0.001). LPS also increased cortical levels of IL-6 (P<0.01), NO, and MDA (p<0.001) while decreased thiol, SOD (p<0.001), and CAT (p<0.05). OLIB and BOSA diminished IL- 6 (p<0.05-p<0.001), NO (p<0.01-p<0.001) and MDA level (p<0.01 and p<0.001, respectively) while improved SOD (p<0.05 and p<0.001, respectively), CAT (p<0.05 and p<0.001, respectively) and thiol content (p<0.001). Conclusion: The results showed that OLIB and BOSA could improve synaptic plasticity impairment induced by LPS as shown by a decrease in an inflammation indicator along with the anti-oxidant effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic inflammation is a key culprit factor in the onset and progression of several diseases. Novel and pharmacologically effective therapeutic approaches are needed for new treatment remedy or improved pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics for existing synthetic drugs, in particular natural products. Boswellic acids are well-known natural products, with capacity to effectively retard inflammation without severe adverse effects. However, the therapeutic use of Boswellic acids are greatly hindered by its poor pharmacokinetic properties. Co-administration strategies that facilitate the oral absorption and distribution of Boswellic acids should lead to a safe and more effective use of this product prophylactically and therapeutically in inflammatory disorders. In this study, we examined the effect of Piper longum extract on the absorption and bioavailability of Boswellic acid in rabbits. In addition, we further explored computational pharmacodynamic interactions between Piper longum and Boswellic acid. Piper longum extract at 2.5 and 10 mg/kg, increased the bioavailability of Boswellic acid (p < 0.05). Based on our drug-based computational modeling, cytochrome P450 (CYP450)-mediated mechanism was involved in increased bioavailability. These findings confirmed that Piper longum with Boswellic acid may be administered orally together for effective therapeutic efficacy. Thus, our studies support the application of Piper longum with Boswellic acid as a novel therapeutic avenue in diseases associated with inflammation.

The use of antibiotics or antifungals to control infections caused by pathogenic microorganisms is currently insufficiently effective because of their emerging resistance. Thanks to the ability of microorganisms to form a biofilm and thus increase their resistance to administered drugs even more, modern medicine faces the task of finding novel substances to combat infections caused by them. In this regard, the effects of essential oils or plant extracts are often studied. Among the relatively neglected plants is Boswellia serrata, which has a high content of biologically active boswellic acids. In this study, we focused on one of the most common nosocomial infections, which are caused by Candida species. The most common representative is C. albicans, although the number of infections caused by non-albicans species has recently been increasing. We focused on the antifungal activity of Boswellia serrata extract Bioswellix against planktonic and adhering cells of Candida albicans, Candida parapsilosis and Candida krusei. The antifungal activity against adhering cells was further explored by determining the metabolic activity of cells (MTT) and determining the total amount of biofilm using crystal violet. Boswellic acid-containing plant extract was shown to suppress the growth of a suspension population of all tested Candida species. Boswellia serrata extract Bioswellix was most effective in inhibiting C. albicans biofilm formation.

Today, medicinal herbs have been widely used due to antimicrobial, antioxidant properties and less harmful than of chemical compounds. Since ancient times, the medical system in different countries such as Africa, China, India and the Middle East countries, frankincense has been used as antiinflammatory, anti-arthritic, analgesic and anti-proliferation in the treatment of related diseases, chronic diseases of the bowel, asthma, brain edema and other diseases. Several clinical studies that have shown their biological activity the mechanism of action of this plant, have confirmed their anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor activities. Boswellic acids, are the main active component of frankincense and responsible for its therapeutic effects. This review was studied the therapeutic effects of frankincense using the keywords frankincense, boswellic acid, anti-inflammation, intestinal diseases, cancer, diabetes, asthma, brain tumor, fertility and memory. Frankincense with anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritis, anti-proliferative, antimicrobial and analgesic effects at the least side effects and recommended dose could reduce the symptoms of many diseases in traditional and modern medicine.