Polyphenolic compounds of Euphorbia umbellata (Pax) Bruyns (Euphorbiaceae) improved endothelial dysfunction through arginase inhibition

Abstract

Euphorbia umbellata is used for its anti-inflammatory properties; however, there are limited data available regarding its effects on vascular function. Its bark is rich in polyphenolic compounds, which potentially improve endothelial dysfunction (ED). This study proposes to investigate the effects of E. umbellata bark extracts and its polyphenolic compounds on arginase (ARG) activity and nitric oxide (NO)-related targets.Chromatographic procedures were used for the chemical characterisation of the extracts. Furthermore, in silico (molecular docking), in vitro (ARG inhibition), in vivo (streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemia model), and ex vivo (L-arginine metabolism, vascular reactivity, western blot, and biochemical) techniques were carried out. Quercetin, gallic acid, and ellagic acid were identified in the extracts. In silico screening predicted that gallic acid and quercetin would have the most promising interactions with ARG -identified cavities. This was confirmed in vitro as both compounds had a direct inhibitory effect on ARG, as was the case regarding the extracts. Oral treatment preserved endothelium-dependent vasodilation through ARG inhibition together with an increase in L-arginine bioavailability and endothelial NO synthase expression. Biochemical parameters determined the lack of toxicity for sub-chronic treatment. E. umbellata bark extracts and its compounds can contribute to ED treatment, at least partly, through the inhibition of vascular ARG.

Fenugreek extract improves diabetes-induced endothelial dysfunction via the arginase 1 pathway

“…Only piceatannol-3′-O-β-D-glucopyranoside from rhubarb and polyphenolic compounds of Euphorbia umbellata have been reported to have a positive effect on ED by inhibiting Arg in STZ-induced diabetic mice and aged mice, respectively. 59,60 In our study, we confirmed that fenugreek extract, which contains flavonoids, saponins, and phospholipids, improves ED through the Arg1 pathway. This enriches the research on natural plant-based anti-Arg1 therapy for ED.…”