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Natural Products from Plants: Association with Human Health and Therapeutic Benefits

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A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Bioactives and Nutraceuticals".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 February 2026 | Viewed by 6566

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Special Issue Editors

Dr. Andrey Marchev

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Guest Editor

Laboratory of Eukaryotic Cell Biology, Department of Biotechnology, The Stephan Angeloff Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 139 Ruski Blvd, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Interests: natural products; plant-derived extracts and molecules; medicinal plants; plant in vitro systems; natural product pharmacology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Nikolina Mihaylova

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Guest Editor

Institute of Microbiology Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
Interests: nonobese diabetic mouse; insulin dependent diabetes mellitus; T lymphocytes
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Plants and their products are mainly consumed for nutritional support, while a majority of the world population also relies on botanicals for health purposes, either as “traditional medicine” or as “complementary and alternative medicine”. From a pharmaceutical point of view, many plant-derived compounds have been known since ancient times to possess bio/pharmacological activities. Today, we are witnessing a global resurgence in interest and use of plant-based therapies to promote human health by preventing the onset and progression of diseases. Numerous randomized controlled trials have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of botanical products, establishing their importance as a viable source of lead compounds in drug discovery programs. Biomolecular studies have revealed hundreds of cellular and molecular targets for phytochemicals, including key transcription factors, receptors, enzymes, hormones, neurotransmitters, cytokines, lipids, and non-coding RNAs.

Extensive research on the preventative and therapeutic effects of natural products requires regular updating of the literature as to the developing potential roles of these compounds in different human diseases. This Special Issue (SI) attempts to provide an overview of the current pharmacological features and therapeutic benefits of phytopharmaceuticals in health and diseases by covering a wide scope, from chronic and (auto)immune to age-related disorders. Thus, this SI would provide profound insights on the regulatory effects of phytochemicals on molecular signatures associated with pathologies, disease biomarkers, and aging-related pathways.

The SI is open to original research articles, short communications, and reviews.

Dr. Andrey Marchev
Dr. Nikolina Mihaylova
Guest Editors

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Keywords

botanical products
phytochemicals
bio/pharmacological compounds
cellular and molecular targets
molecular and physiological mechanism
human health
disease prevention and treatment
inflammatory diseases
age-related disorders
chronic and (auto)immune diseases

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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17 pages, 1971 KB

Open AccessArticle

Protective Effects of Lindera obtusiloba Leaf Extract on Osteoarthritis in Mouse Primary Chondrocytes and a Medial Meniscus Destabilization Model

by Kang-Il Oh, Mun Hyoung Bae, Junhwan Jeong, Seokjin Hwang, Jonggyu Park, Hyun-Woo Kwon, Eunkuk Park and Seon-Yong Jeong

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(20), 9877; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26209877 (registering DOI) - 10 Oct 2025

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Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disorder characterized by progressive articular cartilage degradation, leading to pain, stiffness, and impaired mobility. This study investigated the anti-osteoarthritic effects of Lindera obtusiloba (LO) leaf extract in primary cultured chondrocytes and a mouse model of destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM)-induced OA. Mouse primary chondrocytes were treated with IL-1β and various concentrations of LO leaf extract (50–150 μg/mL), and analyzed by RT-PCR, Western blotting, and ELISA. For the in vivo experiments, male C57BL/6 mice underwent DMM surgery and were administered LO leaf extract (50–200 mg/kg/day) for eight weeks, followed by micro-CT, histological, and immunohistochemical analyses. LO leaf extract exhibited no cytotoxicity in chondrocytes. In interleukin-1β-induced inflammatory chondrocytes, LO leaf extract significantly suppressed the expression of OA-associated catabolic factors, including cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2), matrix metalloproteinases (MMP3 and MMP13), and phosphorylated nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). It also reduced the production of destructive mediators, such as prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) and collagenase, in a dose-dependent manner. In vivo, LO leaf extract-treated mice demonstrated significant reductions in articular cartilage degradation, subchondral bone sclerosis, and the expression of catabolic and inflammatory mediators. Additionally, LO leaf extract administration significantly decreased systemic pro-inflammatory cytokine levels in DMM-induced mice. Collectively, these findings indicate that LO leaf extract attenuates OA progression by suppressing both local and systemic inflammatory responses, supporting its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for the prevention and treatment of OA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products from Plants: Association with Human Health and Therapeutic Benefits)

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32 pages, 5159 KB

Open AccessArticle

Phytochemical Analysis and Phytometabolomic Profiling of Ficus lindsayana Leaf Extract with Evaluation of Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, Cyto- and Genotoxic Activities

by Arisa Imsumran, Woorawee Inthachat, Piya Temviriyanukul, Jirarat Karinchai, Tanongsak Laowanitwattana, Pensiri Buacheen, Ararat Jaiaree, Uthaiwan Suttisansanee, Ariyaphong Wongnoppavich and Pornsiri Pitchakarn

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(19), 9374; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26199374 - 25 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Ficus lindsayana is recognized for its medicinal properties, with previous studies highlighting the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of its latex (FLtA) and root (FRE) extracts. Harvesting these plant parts, however, raises ecological concerns. This study evaluates the phytochemical profiles, safety, and biological activities of F. lindsayana leaf (FL) extracts as more sustainable alternatives. Leaves were extracted using hot water (FLA) and 80% ethanol (FLE), yielding 32.9% and 11.4%, respectively. Metabolomic and targeted HPLC-MS/MS analyses revealed distinct phytochemical compositions. FLE was enriched in flavonoid aglycones and lipophilic compounds, while FLA contained higher levels of polar phenolics. FLA showed greater total phenolic and flavonoid contents and stronger antioxidant activity, with an SC₅₀ of 159 μg/mL for the DPPH assay. In contrast, FLE demonstrated more pronounced anti-inflammatory activity. In LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages, FLE significantly reduced nitric oxide production and iNOS expression at both the protein and mRNA levels. FLE also reduced IL-6 secretion in a dose-dependent manner without affecting TNF-α, suggesting selective cytokine modulation. Both extracts exhibited low cytotoxicity (IC₂₀ > 800 µg/mL in most cell types), non-hemolytic properties, and no mutagenic activity in the Drosophila wing spot assay. Compared to root and latex extracts, FLE ranked second in anti-inflammatory potency (FRE > FLE > FLA = FLtA). FLE, therefore represents a promising candidate, combining potent bioactivity with environmental responsibility and supporting the further development of F. lindsayana leaf-derived products for use in functional foods or botanical therapeutics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products from Plants: Association with Human Health and Therapeutic Benefits)

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16 pages, 2460 KB

Open AccessArticle

First Look at Chemopreventive Properties of Chlorella pyrenoidosa Water Extract in Human Endometrial Adenocarcinoma Cells—Preliminary In Vitro Study

by Weronika Rzeska, Michał Chojnacki, Aneta Adamiak-Godlewska, Andrzej Semczuk and Marta Kinga Lemieszek

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(18), 9142; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26189142 - 19 Sep 2025

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Abstract

Chlorella species are classified as functional food, with great anticancer effects. Despite the huge popularity of Chlorella-based products, there is a lack of evidence showing their usefulness in the prevention and treatment of endometrial cancer. The study presented here aimed to enrich knowledge resources in this area. The chemopreventive effect of water extracts of Chlorella pyrenoidosa was investigated in human endometrial adenocarcinoma HEC-1-B, KLE and EDC cells using MTT, BrdU, LDH, Wound assays, Cell Death Detection ELISA and nuclear double staining. C. pyrenoidosa extract inhibited the metabolic activity, DNA synthesis and migratory capacity of endometrial cancer cells. Moreover, the extract eliminated cancer cells, causing damage to their cell membranes and inducing apoptosis. The cells most resistant to chlorella extract were EDC cells (low grade), while the best response to the treatment was noted in KLE cells (high grade). The performed study revealed the chemopreventive properties of C. pyrenoidosa extract based on inhibition of endometrial cancer cell viability, proliferation and migratory capacity, as well as induction of cytotoxicity and apoptosis. Collected data suggested enhancement of extract chemopreventive properties with increasing advancement and malignancy of cancer cells. Obtained results encourage future clinical research and detailed chemical evaluation to specify the extract’s phytochemical composition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products from Plants: Association with Human Health and Therapeutic Benefits)

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21 pages, 3195 KB

Open AccessArticle

Carrageenans and the Carrageenan-Echinochrome Complex as Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Agents

by Natalya V. Krylova, Anna O. Kravchenko, Galina N. Likhatskaya, Olga V. Iunikhina, Valery P. Glazunov, Tatyana S. Zaporozhets, Mikhail Y. Shchelkanov and Irina M. Yermak

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(13), 6175; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26136175 - 26 Jun 2025

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Abstract

The diversity of structural types of carrageenans (CRGs)—sulfated polysaccharides of red algae—determines their different biological activities. The different types of CRGs (kappa, lambda, kappa/beta-CRGs) were isolated from the red algae of the Pacific coast. Molecular docking was performed to determine potential interactions of CRGs with the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 and its cellular receptor—angiotensin—converting enzyme type 2 (ACE2). CRGs interacted with ACE2 and RBD via hydrogen bonding and ionic interactions. The strongest binding affinity of CRGs and ACE2 was observed for kappa-CRG. Molecular docking was confirmed by results studying the effects of CRGs against SARS-CoV-2 in vitro. The ability of CRGs, as well as the complex CRG with sea urchin echinochrome (Ech), to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication in Vero E6 cells was studied using cytopathic effect (CPE) inhibition and RT-PCR assays. The simultaneous treatment of cells with CRGs and the virus revealed that kappa-CRG exhibited the most significant antiviral effect among all the polysaccharides, with a selective index (SI) of 33. The kappa-CRG/Ech complex exhibited the highest virucidal effect on SARS-CoV-2 particles with an SI above 70 (more than two times higher than that of CRG and Ech) and reduced viral RNA levels by 45% (IC = 45%). Our results illustrate that CRGs and kappa-CRG/Ech complex can act as protective agents against SARS-CoV-2. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products from Plants: Association with Human Health and Therapeutic Benefits)

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Review

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17 pages, 1893 KB

Open AccessReview

Nephroprotective Effect of Sansevieria trifasciata

by Josue Ramos Islas, Manuel López-Cabanillas Lomelí, Blanca Edelia González Martínez, Israel Ricardo Ramos Islas, Myriam Gutiérrez López, Alexandra Tijerina-Sáenz, Jesús Alberto Vázquez Rodríguez, Luis Fernando Méndez López, María Julia Verde-Star, Romario García-Ponce, David Gilberto García-Hernández and Michel Stéphane Heya

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(17), 8619; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26178619 - 4 Sep 2025

Viewed by 1542

Abstract

Kidney diseases represent an increasingly significant global public health challenge, with an estimated prevalence of around 10% among adults and a rising trend influenced by factors such as population aging and exposure to nephrotoxic agents. Given the limitations of conventional treatments, which often only slow disease progression and may cause adverse effects, there is growing interest in exploring alternative therapies based on natural compounds. Sansevieria trifasciata, commonly known for its ornamental use, has been widely used in traditional medicine in Mexico and other tropical regions due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative properties. Recently, its phytochemical profile has drawn scientific attention, particularly due to its high content of hydroxylated aromatic compounds such as flavonoids, terpenes, and phenolic acids, which may offer protective effects on kidney function. For this review, searches were conducted in specialized databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, as well as platforms like ChEMBL and SWISS, selecting articles published between 2008 and 2025. This work aims to compile and critically analyze the available scientific literature on the nephroprotective potential of the phytochemicals found in S. trifasciata, and includes a preliminary exploration of their possible mechanisms of action using pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic prediction tools. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products from Plants: Association with Human Health and Therapeutic Benefits)

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28 pages, 1114 KB

Open AccessReview

Bromelain in Obesity Therapy: A Review of Anti-Inflammatory and Metabolic Mechanisms

by Yashvi Sethia, Ewelina Polak-Szczybyło and Jacek Tabarkiewicz

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(17), 8347; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26178347 - 28 Aug 2025

Viewed by 2939

Abstract

The increasing prevalence of obesity, a chronic disease, necessitates the development and evaluation of evidence-based prevention and intervention strategies tailored to heterogeneous populations. Certain fruits, including papaya and pineapple (Ananas comosus), have been investigated as potential dietary components in obesity management. In the context of obesity and chronic low-grade inflammation, bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme derived from pineapple, is a widely studied phytotherapeutic agent that acts through multiple mechanisms intersecting immune and metabolic pathways. This narrative review summarizes current evidence on the effects of bromelain in obesity, low-grade inflammation, and related metabolic disturbances. Searches of the literature were conducted in Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus databases. This review incorporates findings from in vitro, animal, and human studies. We outline the mechanisms and evidence supporting the therapeutic efficacy of bromelain, emphasizing its implications for obesity management in clinical settings. Bromelain has been shown to exert significant anti-inflammatory activity and may modulate adipocyte metabolism, potentially alleviating comorbidities associated with excess adiposity. Although its effects on immune cells are relatively well described, the mechanisms underlying bromelain’s actions on adipocytes remain incompletely understood. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products from Plants: Association with Human Health and Therapeutic Benefits)

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