Search Results (35)

Lymphoma is a hematological malignancy and a major non-communicable disease characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of lymphoid cells, frequently associated with dysregulation of the cellular myelocytomatosis (c-Myc) oncogenic pathway. In this study, we investigated the anti-lymphoma potential of bioactive compounds derived from edible plants in the Zingiberaceae family, including fingerroot (Boesenbergia rotunda), turmeric (Curcuma longa), white turmeric (Curcuma mangga), zedoary (Curcuma zedoaria), and ginger (Zingiber officinale). Crude extracts from these traditionally consumed medicinal food plants were evaluated for cytotoxic effects against human B-cell lymphoma cell lines (Raji and Daudi) and compared with normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Among the tested extracts, ginger and turmeric exhibited selective cytotoxicity toward lymphoma cells. Ginger was selected for further investigation, and subsequent analyses identified 6-shogaol as the principal active compound. 6-Shogaol significantly suppressed total and phosphorylated c-Myc protein expression, induced dose-dependent apoptosis, and caused cell cycle arrest in lymphoma cells. Network pharmacology and pathway enrichment analyses suggested the modulation of multiple oncogenic signaling pathways, particularly the PI3K/Akt/c-Myc and MAPK signaling. These findings indicate that 6-shogaol exerts anti-lymphoma activity through the coordinated modulation of oncogenic and apoptotic pathways. However, as this study is limited to in vitro and computational analyses, further in vivo validation is required. Overall, 6-shogaol represents a promising food-derived lead compound for the development of novel therapeutic strategies against lymphoma. Full article

Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf., commonly known as fingerroot or “Kra-Chai,” is a traditional Thai medicinal plant used for treating digestive and metabolic disorders. Recent evidence highlights its potential role in controlling hyperglycemia, though its active compounds and mechanisms remain unclear. This study evaluated the antidiabetic activity of B. rotunda crude extract and its major flavonoids, pinostrobin and pinocembrin, through in vitro enzyme inhibition and cellular glucose transport assays. Pinocembrin exhibited the strongest inhibition of both α-amylase and α-glucosidase, while pinostrobin and the crude extract showed moderate effects. In Caco-2 cells, the crude extract reduced glucose uptake, whereas both flavonoids markedly inhibited transport under glucose-depleted conditions, suggesting interaction with sodium-dependent glucose transporters (SGLTs). Under high-glucose conditions, their effects were minimal, indicating limited activity on facilitative glucose transporters (GLUTs). Moreover, molecular docking studies revealed that pinostrobin and pinocembrin bind within the glucose transporter channels of SGLT1 and SGLT2, blocking glucose passage and supporting the experimental findings. Overall, B. rotunda, particularly pinocembrin, demonstrates notable in vitro antidiabetic potential through enzyme inhibition and SGLT modulation. Further in vivo investigations are warranted to validate its hypoglycemic properties and identify additional active compounds. Full article

This study aimed to microencapsulate Boesenbergia rotunda (fingerroot) extract using maltodextrin (MD) and gum arabic (GA) as wall materials via spray-drying to improve powder physicochemical properties and protect bioactive compounds. MD and GA were employed as wall materials in varying ratios (MD:GA of 1:0, 0:1, 1:1, 2:1, 1:2) to evaluate their effects on the physicochemical properties of the resulting microcapsules. Spray-dried microcapsules were evaluated for morphology, flowability, particle size distribution, moisture content, hygroscopicity, solubility, encapsulation efficiency, major bioactive compound retention, and thermal stability. The extract encapsulation using MD:GA at 1:1 ratio (MD1GA1) demonstrated a favorable balance, with high solubility (98.70%), low moisture content (8.69%), low hygroscopicity (5.08%), and uniform particle morphology, despite its moderate EE (75.06%). SEM images revealed spherical particles with fewer surface indentations in MD-rich formulations. Microencapsulation effectively retained pinostrobin and pinocembrin in all formulations with pinostrobin consistently retained at a higher value, indicating its higher stability. The balanced profile of physical and functional properties of fingerroot extract with MD1GA1 microcapsule makes it a promising candidate for food and nutraceutical applications. Full article

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder characterized by multifactorial pathogenesis, including oxidative stress, cholinergic dysfunction, β-amyloid (Aβ) aggregation, and neuroinflammation. In this study, we investigated the neuroprotective potential of the Pheka capsule (PC) formula, a traditional Thai polyherbal medicine comprising Oroxylum indicum (OI), Zingiber officinale (ZO), and Boesenbergia rotunda (BR). Phytochemical analysis by HPLC confirmed the presence of key bioactive compounds including baicalein, baicalin, oroxylin A, 6-gingerol, 6-shogaol, pinocembrin, and pinostrobin. The PC formula exhibited strong antioxidant activity, highly selective butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibition with a selectivity index (SI) of BChE > 20, suppression of Aβ aggregation, and protection against H₂O₂-induced neuronal damage in vitro. Network pharmacology analysis identified multiple AD-relevant targets and pathways, including APP, GSK3B, CASP3, GAPDH, PTGS2, and PPARG, implicating the PC formula in modulating oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation. Notably, OI emerged as the primary contributor to the formula’s multitargeted actions. These findings support the therapeutic potential of the PC formula as a multitarget agent for AD, aligning with the growing interest in polypharmacological strategies for complex neurodegenerative diseases. Further in vivo and clinical studies are warranted to confirm its efficacy and safety. Full article

This study investigated the use of supercritical carbon dioxide (CO₂) to extract bioactive compounds from Thai fingerroot (Boesenbergia rotunda), focusing on the effects of pressure, temperature, CO₂ flow rate, and ethanol co-solvent concentration. A central composite design within a response surface methodology framework was employed to optimize the total extraction yield, total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC). Conventional ethanol maceration was used as a benchmark. High-performance liquid chromatography identified the major compounds in the extracts, such as pinostrobin and pinocembrin. The results showed that the yield, TPC, and TFC increased with higher pressure, CO₂ flow rate, and co-solvent levels, whereas higher temperatures had a negative effect (p ≤ 0.05). Interactions between pressure and temperature favored the yield and TPC but not TFC. The optimal conditions—250 bar, 45 °C, 3 L/min CO₂ flow rate, and 100% ethanol—produced a yield of 28.67%, TPC of 354.578 mg GAE/g, and TFC of 273.479 mg QE/g. These values exceeded those obtained using conventional extraction (9.91% yield, 332.86 mg GAE/g TPC, and 77.57 mg QE/g TFC at 60 min). The regression models showed strong predictive accuracy (R² > 0.9). Pinostrobin and pinocembrin were the dominant phenolic compounds. These findings demonstrate the superior efficiency of supercritical CO₂ extraction for isolating phenolic compounds from B. rotunda. Full article

The rhizomes of Boesenbergia rotunda (fingerroot) and its bioactive compound, panduratin A, exhibit potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-proliferative properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-melanogenic (including anti-tyrosinase) effects of B. rotunda extract and panduratin A in B16F10 melanoma cells induced by UVA radiation. The effects of the compounds on fibroblast proliferation and migration were also assessed by scratch wound healing assays in human primary fibroblasts. The results showed that B. rotunda extract and panduratin A significantly reduced tyrosinase activity and cellular melanogenesis induced by UVA radiation in a dose-dependent manner. The compounds also demonstrated inhibitory effects on fibroblast cell migration and proliferation. These findings suggest that B. rotunda extract may have potential therapeutic effects on skin hyperpigmentation and fibroproliferative skin disorders. Full article

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a challenging disease, with the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) being a key target for new, effective treatments crucial for the signaling pathways regulating cancer cell survival. Targeting EGFR-mediated signaling offers promising strategies to improve NSCLC therapies, particularly in overcoming resistance in EGFR-mutant lung cancer. In this study, we investigated the anticancer effects of panduratin A, a naturally occurring flavonoid from Boesenbergia rotunda, on human NSCLC cell lines expressing both wild-type EGFR (A549) and mutant EGFR (H1975) using in vitro experiments and molecular docking approaches. Cytotoxicity screening revealed that panduratin A exhibits potent effects on both A549 (IC₅₀ of 6.03 ± 0.21 µg/mL) and H1975 (IC₅₀ of 5.58 ± 0.15 µg/mL) cell lines while demonstrating low toxicity to normal MRC5 lung cells (12.96 ± 0.36 µg/mL). Furthermore, western blotting and flow cytometric analyses indicated that panduratin A induces apoptosis by inhibiting p-EGFR and its downstream effectors, p-STAT3 and p-Akt, in lung cancer cells. Additionally, the docking study showed lower binding energy between panduratin A and the target proteins, comparable to that of epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR TKIs). The ADMET prediction also highlighted panduratin A’s exceptional drug-like properties. This study concludes that panduratin A shows significant promise as an anti-lung cancer candidate for NSCLC, offering an economical and effective strategy. Full article

The Zingiberaceae family is widely recognized for its diversity, ecological significance, and economic value, playing a crucial role in both natural ecosystems and local livelihoods. This study investigates the species diversity, traditional uses, and economic importance of Zingiberaceae in Kalasin Province, northeastern Thailand, while also assessing the conservation status of species found in natural habitats. A total of 69 Zingiberaceae taxa were identified across the province, with 7 taxa found occurring only in natural habitats and 36 taxa found only in cultivation, while 26 taxa were found in both situations. Of these, twenty-five wild taxa represent new records for the province, and six are endemic. Traditional uses include food, spices, medicine, ornamental plants, commercial cultivation, rituals and socio-religious activities, and cosmetics, with rhizomes being the most utilized plant part. Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf. displayed the highest economic value. Based on conservation assessments according to IUCN red list criteria, Globba conferta M.F.Newman is proposed as critically endangered (CR), 5 species as endangered, 10 taxa as vulnerable, and 17 taxa as least concern. These findings emphasize the ecological, horticultural, and economic importance of Zingiberaceae in Kalasin, where the trade of herbal products and commercial cultivation significantly contribute to local livelihoods. To ensure long-term sustainability, conservation strategies should be prioritized, balancing biodiversity preservation with economic and horticultural benefits. Full article

Fingerroot (Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf.) is valued for its therapeutic benefits, both in Thailand and internationally. This study optimized in vitro propagation and induced microrhizomes (MRZ) to produce cleaned plantlets to support organic farming using disease-free plantlets, which is crucial for preventing and eradicating diseased plantlets, reducing the use of chemicals, and alternative approaches to enhancing phytochemical diversity. Shoots cultured on ½-strength MS medium with 1 mg L⁻¹ of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) showed the highest shoot formation (69%) and shoot multiplication (3.45 ± 0.29 shoots per explant). Plantlets acclimatized in peat moss or a peat moss–coconut coir (1:1) mixture achieved a 100% survival rate. Genetic fidelity was confirmed using SSR markers, showing genetic consistency with the mother plant. The MRZ formation was the highest (98.33%) under white LED light with 30 g L⁻¹ of sucrose. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis in MRZ revealed aspartate, a precursor to pinocembrin and pinostrobin. Additionally, nine unique metabolites not previously identified in fingerroot were detected in the MRZ, suggesting some potential in novel therapeutic applications. These findings support the development of efficient micropropagation methods and highlight MRZ as a source of diverse bioactive compounds, contributing to the medicinal value of B. rotunda in sustainable and large-scale production. Full article

This study presents four new records of Boesenbergia species (Zingiberaceae) in Cambodia: Boesenbergia parvula (Wall. ex Baker) Kuntze, B. petiolata Sirirugsa, B. siphonantha (King ex Baker) M.Sabu, Prasanthk. & Škorničk., and B. xiphostachya (Gagnep.) Loes. Previously, only B. rotunda (L.) Mansf. was officially recognized in Cambodia. This research also confirms the occurrence of B. rotunda in natural habitats. and provides a new distribution report for this species within the country, and lectotypification of B. xiphostachya (Gagnep.) Loes. We studied plant specimens collected from Cambodia, using calipers and a stereomicroscope, and identified them based on protologue descriptions and herbarium records. We provide detailed morphological descriptions, complete synonymy, taxonomic diagnoses, and a comprehensive identification key. In addition, we present data on habitat, phenology, vernacular names, traditional uses, provisional conservation statuses, horticultural potential, and cultivation guidelines. These findings substantially expand the known species diversity of Boesenbergia in Cambodia, highlighting their ecological significance, cultural value, and ornamental potential. By advancing the understanding of regional flora, this study contributes to biodiversity conservation and emphasizes the importance of continued exploration and documentation in Southeast Asia to preserve ecological integrity and. traditional knowledge. Full article

Obesity, which is characterized by excessive body fat accumulation and energy imbalance, is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Boesenbergia rotunda rhizomes (known as fingerroots) exhibit a variety of pharmacological activities and are used in traditional medicine. Pinostrobin was identified as a major constituent of Boesenbergia rotunda rhizome (BR) extract and suppressed nitric oxide production in interleukin 1β-treated hepatocytes. Next, we investigated the anti-obesity effects of BR extract in ob/ob mice, a type 2 diabetes mellitus model. The ob/ob mice were treated with or without 1% BR extract for 14 days and then analyzed for serum insulin and triglyceride levels, liver histology, and liver mRNA expression. The administration of BR extract significantly decreased blood glucose concentrations and increased serum insulin concentrations in ob/ob mice. In addition, this treatment reduced triglyceride levels in both the serum and liver and decreased lipid accumulation in hepatocytes. Microarray analysis revealed that hepatic mRNA affected the expression of genes involved in inflammation, lipid metabolism, lipid synthesis, and insulin signaling, leading to improvements in obesity. Because BR extract has hypoglycemic and antidiabetic effects on ob/ob mice, it might be a promising candidate for addressing obesity and related metabolic disorders. Full article

The Pet-Sang-Kard mixed herbal remedy (PSKMHR) is a traditional Thai medicinal formulation used as an herbal supplement for the treatment of hemorrhoids. This remedy consists of four specific herbal ingredients in the following proportions: 50 parts Cissus quadrangularis L. stems, 15 parts Eclipta prostrata L. aerial parts, 10 parts Rheum sp. rhizome, and 10 parts Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf. rhizome. This study presents the development, validation, and application of a high-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection (HPLC-PDA) method designed for the simultaneous quantification of 13 key bioactive compounds, including rhaponticin, rhapontigenin, quercitrin, wedelolactone, aloe-emodin, rhein, emodin, chrysophanol, physcion, alpinetin, pinocembrin, pinostrobin, and panduratin A, present in the 70% ethanolic extract of PSKMHR. Method validation was conducted in accordance with Association of Official Analytical Collaboration (AOAC) international guidelines, evaluating parameters such as the specificity, linearity, accuracy, precision, and limit of detection. The results demonstrated exceptional linearity (R > 0.9999), high precision (% RSD < 2), and recovery rates within acceptable limits (98–102%) for all analytes. This developed method was successfully applied to quantify the 13 target compounds in the crude extracts of PSKMHR formulated from 10 market raw material samples, providing a robust analytical framework for quality control of this herbal remedy. Full article

The bioactive flavonoids pinostrobin (PN) and panduratin A (PA) from Boesenbergia rotunda are essential for research and therapeutic applications. This study introduces an innovative method utilizing ultrasound-assisted extraction with n-hexane pre-treatment, followed by one-step centrifugal partition chromatography (CPC) purification. Extraction efficiency was evaluated using ultra high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC), and the isolated compounds were characterized through ¹H-NMR and liquid chromatography electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS), adhering to AOAC validation guidelines. Optimal extraction conditions comprised a particle size of 125 μm, a solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:30 g/mL, and a 10 min extraction time, yielding a crude extract of 6.96 ± 0.07%. Using an n-hexane/MeOH/water (5/3.4/1.6, v/v) solvent system in ascending mode, PN (2.16 mg, 98.78% purity) and PA (0.4 mg, 99.69% purity) were isolated from 67 mg of crude extract within 30 min. This streamlined approach enhances purification efficiency, allowing for faster extraction and higher purity, making it a suitable method for commercial applications. Full article

The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of adding fermented herbal extracts (FHE) derived from mulberry leaf (Morus alba), Javanese turmeric (Curcuma xanthorrhiza), and fingerroot (Boesenbergia rotunda) to the diet of tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon) on their growth, moulting performance, feed efficiency, and nutrient retention. The main feed used in this trial was a commercially manufactured pellet; then, five different doses of FHE supplementation were used: 0 mL/kg feed (P0, control), 50 mL/kg feed (P1), 100 mL/kg feed (P2), 150 mL/kg feed (P3), and 200 mL/kg feed (P4). Weight gain, average daily gain, and length gain of shrimps fed P2 were significantly higher than that of those fed the control diet. A similar result was observed in moulting performance. The application of P2 showed superior results in enhancing the feed efficiency of cultured shrimp. Thus, the protein and energy retention of P. monodon was significantly better in P2 treatment groups. P0 had the lowest crude protein, while shrimp on the P2 and P3 diets had the highest crude protein content of any treatment group. Crude lipid content was lower in shrimp fed diets supplemented with FHE compared to those fed the control diet. In addition, higher energy contents were found in P1 and P2 treatment groups. Based on the findings, it is recommended that the juvenile tiger shrimp diet contain 100 mL/kg of FHE for the best effects. Full article

This study investigated the impact of drying parameters on the quality of fingerroot (Boesenbergia rotunda) extract, focusing on phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity. A Box–Behngen design was employed to evaluate the effects of maltodextrin concentration, inlet temperature, and outlet temperature on the extract’s properties. The highest total phenolic content (18.96 µg of GAE/mg extract) and total flavonoid content (33.52 µg of GE/mg extract) were achieved using 20% maltodextrin, a 160 °C inlet temperature, and an 80 °C outlet temperature. Antioxidant activity, measured by DPPH and FRAP assays, was also influenced by drying parameters. Stepwise regression analysis revealed that maltodextrin concentration significantly affected all responses, while the inlet temperature had no significant effect. The outlet temperature significantly influenced FRAP activity. The developed mathematical models accurately predicted experimental values, validating the effectiveness of the RSM and Deep-Learning Machine. Optimal drying conditions for maximizing phenolic compounds were determined to be 20% maltodextrin, a 150 °C inlet temperature, and a 70 °C outlet temperature, resulting in TPC 15.33 µg of GAE/mg extract, TF 28.75 µg of GE/mg extract, IC₅₀ value of 3.99 µg/mL, FRAP value at 4.44 µmoL Fe²⁺/mg extract of phenolic content, and 18.96 µg of the GAE/mg extract. Similar conditions were found to be optimal for maximizing flavonoid content. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing the drying process of fingerroot extract to preserve its bioactive compounds and enhance its potential applications. Full article