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Introduction: Garlic (Allium sativum L.), has been cultivated in various countries and is valued for its medicinal and culinary properties. It contains bioactive compounds such as phenolic compounds, organic sulfides, polysaccharides, and saponins, with allicin being a particularly studied compound. These compounds have been shown to possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiviral, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic and antihypertensive effects. Garlic has been used for over 5000 years as a curative plant and has potential applications in food science, medicine, and nutraceuticals. Aim of the Study: The aim of the study is to provide a comprehensive review of the overall impact of Allium sativum L. on human health and in order to draw attention to the benefits of regular consumption. Materials and methods: A comprehensive review of scientific and medical literature was conducted utilizing PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Searching terms were: garlic, Allium sativum L., garlic antiinflammatory, garlic anticancer, garlic health effects. Conclusion: Allium sativum L. is associated with a comprehensive range of beneficial effects on the human body. These include anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, positive influence on lipid profile, cardiovascular system, and the anticancer activity among others by stimulation of tumor apoptosis. As a result, garlic and its bioactive compounds hold promise as functional foods or nutraceuticals for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diallyl thiosulfinate (DT), a major organosulfur chemical with several notable therapeutic characteristics, is highly unstable and easily degradable which restricts its extensive use in biopharmaceutical commodities. Therefore, utilizing the self-assembly nature of polyoxyethylene (Brij S20 and Brij 58), appropriate pH-responsive micelle carrier systems have been designed to entrap and improve DT's stability at an ambient temperature (25 °C) while preserving its quantity and biological activity. Comparing with the Brij S20 with the Brij 58 micelle carrier system, the latter demonstrated superior stability and entrapment of DT. In addition, it was found that DT's stability in micellized condition is significantly influenced by both pH and temperature (p < 0.05). The micelle system was capable enough to reduce degradation significantly. Additionally, the liberation of DT from micelle is greatly aided by acidic pH 1.5. Around 77% DT was released from Brij 58 system. Various biochemical analyses were done. The liberation of DT from the micelle in a controlled manner using lower pH as stimuli may facilitate its biological action at an individual's gastrointestinal lumen or near cancer cell environment having lower pH. Additionally, it was made sure that the micellization method did not impair DT's bioactivity or reduce appropriate biocompatibility. The current study increases the likelihood of creating a commercially available DT-loaded, micelle-based formulation for application in biopharma and food-related industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional dosage forms cannot address drawbacks such as poor bioavailability and stability of some drugs meant to be absorbed from upper part of the gut. Gastroprotective floating microspheres have shown great success in addressing these issues. One of the unresolved issues associated with gastroprotective floating microspheres is quantitative efficiency of the system in fasted and fed conditions. Allicin is a defence compound present in Allium sativum plant, commonly known as Garlic. It is one of the chief Phytobioactive compounds present in Allium species, such as, white garlic, alpine leek, field garlic, wild garlic and elephant garlic. It is a sulphur containing volatile compound that is primarily responsible for the characteristic taste and smell of Allium species. It accounts for 70% w/w of the total thiosulfinates present in fresh garlic. In the present investigation allicin loaded gastroretentive microspheres were prepared in six different batches viz., GFM 1, GFM 2, GFM 3, GFM 14, GFM 5 and GFM 6 by ionic gelation method using varying the ratio of selected excipients and the prepated microsphere were evaluated. The results indicates that GFM 5 showed maxim drug release and considered as best formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress frequently contributes to intestinal barrier injury in animals and humans. It was reported that both Selenomethionine (SeMet) and allicin exhibit protective effects against a range of diseases caused by oxidative stress. This study aimed to investigate the synergistic antioxidant effects and underlying mechanisms of SeMet and allicin on a H2O2-induced intestinal barrier injury model using IPEC-J2 cells and mice. The results showed that H2O2 induced severe oxidative stress, including a decrease in cell viability, antioxidant level, migration capacity, and cell integrity. SeMet and allicin exhibited significant synergistic anti-oxidative effects on intestinal epithelial cells. The combined use of SeMet and allicin increased SOD activity, GSH content, and GSH/GSSG ratio while decreasing MDA, NO, and ROS content levels. Furthermore, we found that SeMet and allicin synergistically activated the nuclear factor erythroid-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-NAD(P)H dehydrogenase [quinone] 1 (NQO1) signaling pathway and down-regulated endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress)-related proteins. However, the synergistic antioxidative and intestinal barrier protective effects of SeMet and allicin were abolished by Nrf2 inhibitor ML385 in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, SeMet and allicin synergistically attenuate intestinal barrier injury induced by excessively oxidative stress through the activation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway and inhibition ER stress. These findings support that the combined use of SeMet and allicin could enhance antioxidative properties and alleviate intestinal injury in further clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allicin, as a natural antibacterial active substance from plants, has great medical and health care value. However, due to its poor stability, its application in the field of food and medicine is limited. So, in this paper, allicin–zein–sodium caseinate composite nanoparticles (zein–Ali–SC) were prepared by antisolvent precipitation and electrostatic deposition. Through the analysis of the particle size, ζ-potential, encapsulation efficiency (EE), loading rate (LC) and microstructure, the optimum preparation conditions for composite nanoparticles were obtained. The mechanism of its formation was studied by fluorescence spectrum, Fourier infrared spectrum (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The stability study results showed that the particle size of composite nanoparticles was less than 200 nm and its PDI was less than 0.3 under different NaCl concentrations and heating conditions, showing good stability. When stored at 4 °C for 21 days, the retention rate of allicin reached 61.67%, which was 52.9% higher than that of free allicin. After freeze-drying and reheating, the nanoparticles showed good redispersibility; meanwhile, antioxidant experiments showed that, compared with free allicin, the nanoparticles had stronger scavenging ability of free radicals, which provided a new idea for improving the stability technology and bioavailability of bioactive compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the World Health Organization, cancer is the foremost cause of mortality globally. Various phytochemicals from natural sources have been extensively studied for their anticancer properties. Allicin, a powerful organosulfur compound derived from garlic, exhibits anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. This review aims to update and evaluate the chemistry, composition, mechanisms of action, and pharmacokinetics Allicin. Allicin has garnered significant attention for its potential role in modulating Fas-FasL, Bcl2-Bax, PI3K-Akt-mTOR, autophagy, and miRNA pathways. At the molecular level, allicin induces the release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria and enhances the activation of caspases-3, -8, and -9. This is accompanied by the simultaneous upregulation of Bax and Fas expression in tumor cells. Allicin can inhibit excessive autophagy by activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and MAPK/ERK/mTOR signaling pathways. Allicin-loaded nano-formulations efficiently induce apoptosis in cancer cells while minimizing toxicity to normal cells. Safety and clinical aspects are meticulously scrutinized, providing insights into the tolerability and adverse effects associated with allicin administration, along with an overview of current clinical trials evaluating its therapeutic potential. In conclusion, this review underscores the promising prospects of allicin as a dietary-derived medicinal compound for cancer therapy. It emphasizes the need for further research to elucidate its precise mechanisms of action, optimize delivery strategies, and validate its efficacy in clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minghui Li,1,&ast; Jiabi Wu,1,&ast; Tao Yang,1 Yuhang Zhao,1 Ping Ren,1 Lingling Chang,2 Pilong Shi,1 Jing Yang,1 Yuhang Liu,2 Xiaolei Li,3 Peng Wang,2 Yonggang Cao1 1Department of Pharmaceutics, Harbin Medical University, Heilongjiang, 163319, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Physiology, Harbin Medical University, Heilongjiang, 163319, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Pathology, Jiangsu College of Nursing, Jiangsu, 223003, People’s Republic of China&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Peng Wang, Department of Physiology, Harbin Medical University, Xinyang Road 39, Gaoxin District, Daqing, Heilongjiang, People’s Republic of China, Email wangpeng810122@126.com Yonggang Cao, Department of Pharmaceutics, Harbin Medical University, Xinyang Road 39, Gaoxin District, Daqing, Heilongjiang, People’s Republic of China, Email caoyonggang@hmudq.edu.cnBackground: Cardiac microvascular damage is substantially related with the onset of myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion (IR) injury. Reportedly, allicin (AL) effectively protects the cardiac microvascular system from IR injury. However, the unsatisfactory therapeutic efficacy of current drugs and insufficient drug delivery to the damaged heart are major concerns. Here, inspired by the natural interaction between neutrophils and inflamed cardiac microvascular endothelial cells (CMECs), a neutrophil membrane-camouflaged nanoparticle for non-invasive active-targeting therapy for IR injury by improving drug delivery to the injured heart is constructed.Methods: In this study, we engineered mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) coated with a neutrophil membrane to act as a drug delivery system, encapsulating AL. The potential of the nanoparticles (named AL@MSNs@NM) for specific targeting of infarcted myocardium was assessed using small animal vivo imaging system. The cardiac function of AL@MSNs@NM after treatment was evaluated by Animal Ultrasound Imaging system, HE staining, and Laser Speckle Imaging System. The therapeutic mechanism was analyzed by ELISA kits, immunofluorescence, and PCR.Results: We discovered that AL@MSNs@NM significantly improves cardiac function index, reduced infarct size and fibrosis, increased vascular perfusion in ischemic areas, and also promoted the function of CMECs, including migration, tube formation, shear stress adaptation, and nitric oxide production. Further research revealed that AL@MSNs@NM have cardio-protective functions in IR rats by inhibiting CMEC ferroptosis and increasing platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM-1) expression.Conclusion: Our results indicated that AL@MSNs@NM significantly reversed CMEC ferroptosis and increased PECAM-1 expression, enhanced cardiac function, and reduced myocardial infarction size. Therefore, this strategy demonstrates that engineered biomimetic nanotechnology effectively delivers AL for targeted therapy of myocardial infarction.Keywords: neutrophil membrane, ischemia-reperfusion, allicin, cardiac microvascular endothelial cells, ferroptosis

Objective To explore the effect of allicin on renal injury in rats with membranous nephropathy （MN） and elucidate its potential mechanism. Methods A total of 65 male Wistar rats were assigned into two groups of normal （n = 10） and modeling （n = 55）. Modeling group received an injection of cationized bovine serum albumin （C-BSA） via tail vein for MN modeling. And 50 modeling rats were randomized into five groups of model, low-dose allicin （5 mg/kg）, medium-dose allicin （10 mg/kg）, high-dose allicin （20 mg/kg） and nenazepril hydrochloride （10 mg/kg） （n = 10 each）. After once daily continuous dosing for 4 weeks, 24 h urinary total protein （24 h UTP）, blood urea nitrogen （BUN） and serum creatinine （Scr） were detected by spectrophotometry; serum levels of total protein （TP） and albumin （Alb） by biochemistry; serum levels of interleukin-1β （IL-1β）, IL-6/10 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha （TNF-α） by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay （ELISA）. Renal histopathology was observed after stains of hematoxylin eosin （HE） and periodic acid-Schiff （PAS） and immunoglobulin G （IgG） immunofluorescence. Apoptosis of renal cells was observed through TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling （TUNEL） stain. The expressions of Toll-like receptor 4 （TLR4）, nuclear factor-κB p65 （NF-κB p65）, p-NF-κB p65, B lymphoblastoma 2 （Bcl-2）, Bcl-2-associated X protein （Bax）, caspase-3 and cleaved caspase-3 in renal tissue were detected by Western blot. Results 24 h UTP （45.07±6.19）mg, BUN （46.45±5.22）mmol/L, Scr （24.90±2.81）μmol/L were significantly higher in model group than 24 h UTP （6.41±0.82）mg, BUN （28.93±3.17）mmol/L and Scr （5.74±0.76）μmol/L in normal control group. The difference was statistically significant （P＜0.05）; TP （37.25±4.09）g/L and Alb （18.62±2.03）g/L were significantly lower in model group than TP （59.38±7.24）g/L and Alb （30.74±2.60）g/L in normal control group. The difference was statistically significant （P＜0.05）. Serum levels of IL-1β （638.14±69.22）ng/L, IL-6 （115.08±13.61）ng/L and TNF-α （341.75±40.93）ng/L were significantly higher in model group than IL-1β （157.42±18.06）ng/L, IL-6 （32.61±3.74）ng/L and TNF-α （60.28±6.51）ng/L in normal control group. Serum level of IL-10 was significantly lower in model group than that in normal control group [（24.90±3.01） vs （75.14±9.76）ng/L]. The difference was statistically significant （P＜0.05）. The pathological changes of renal tissue in model group included greater glomerular volume, mesangial hyperplasia, basement membrane thickening, vacuolar degeneration and necrosis of renal tubule cells, infiltration of inflammatory cells in renal interstitium and diffuse deposition of capillary loop IgG. Apoptotic index was statistically higher in model group than that in normal control group [（63.90±8.74）% vs （4.58±0.52）%]. The difference was statistically significant （P＜0.05）. Expressions of TLR4 （0.34±0.06） and Bax （0.27±0.05） and ratios of p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65 （0.93±0.18） and cleaved caspase-3/caspase-3 （0.67±0.09） were statistically higher in model group than those of TLR4 （0.03±0.01） and Bax （0.03±0.01） and those of p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65 （0.09±0.03） and cleaved caspase-3/caspase-3 （0.15±0.03） in normal control group. The differences were statistically significant （P＜0.05）. Expression of Bcl-2 was statistically lower in model group than that in normal control group [（0.08±0.02） vs （0.37±0.06）]. The difference was statistically significant （P＜0.05）. 24 h UTP [（25.72±3.49）, （13.35±1.60）, （23.11±3.57）mg], BUN [（39.28±4.38）, （34.17±3.62）, （40.35±4.81）mmol/L] and Scr [（14.61±1.85）, （9.05±1.12）, （12.72±1.50）μmol/L] were statistically lower in medium/high-dose allicin and benazepril hydrochloride groups than 24 h UTP （45.07±6.19）, BUN （46.45±5.22） and Scr （24.90±2.81）μmol/L in model group. TP [（46.39±5.02）, （53.47±6.58）, （45.63±5.17）g/L] and Alb [（23.38±2.91）, （27.50±3.04）, （24.08±2.86）g/L] were statistically higher than TP （37.25±4.09）g/L and Alb （18.62±2.03）g/L in model group. The differences were statistically significant （P＜0.05）. IL-1β [（349.18±44.06）, （201.33±26.07）, （317.92±38.64）ng/L], IL-6 [（73.83±9.17）, （50.90±5.25）, （82.76±9.83）ng/L] and TNF-α [（228.14±25.60）, （101.57±12.94）, （193.82±23.74）ng/L] were significantly lower than IL-1β [（638.14±69.22）, IL-6 （115.08±13.61） and TNF-α （341.75±40.93）ng/L] in model group. IL-10 was significantly higher than that in model group [（49.26±6.35）, （62.35±7.71）, （55.60±6.15） vs （24.90±3.01）ng/L]. The difference was statistically significant （P＜0.05）. Renal histopathological changes and apoptosis improved markedly and apoptotic index was significantly lower than that in model group [（63.90±8.74）%, （63.90±8.74）%, （63.90±8.74）% vs （63.90±8.74）%] . The difference was statistically significant （P＜0.05）. Expressions of TLR4 [（0.24±0.04）, （0.09±0.02）, （0.15±0.03）] and Bax [（0.14±0.02）, （0.08±0.02）, （0.16±0.03）] and ratios of p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65 [（0.45±0.07）, （0.21±0.04）, （0.31±0.05）] and cleaved caspase-3/caspase-3 [（0.47±0.07）, （0.20±0.04）, （0.38±0.06）] were significantly lower than those of TLR4 （0.34±0.06） and Bax （0.27±0.05） and those of p-NF-κB p65/NF-κB p65 （0.93±0.18） and cleaved caspase-3/caspase-3 （0.67±0.09） in model group. Expression of Bcl-2 was significantly higher than that in model group [（0.19±0.04）, （0.30±0.06）, （0.28±0.05） vs （0.08±0.02）]. The difference was statistically significant （P＜0.05）. Except for BUN, low/medium/high-dose allicin group demonstrated dose-dependent regulatory effects on other detection parameters （P＜0.05）. Except for IL-10/Bcl-2, regulatory effect of high-dose allicin group was better than that of benazepril hydrochloride group （P＜0.05）. Conclusion Allicin may reduce renal injury and protect renal function in MN rats through suppressing TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway of modulating inflammatory responses and apoptosis.

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the significant disabling outcomes of diabetes mellitus characterized by retinal microvascular damage, inflammation, and neuronal dysfunction. Allicin (Alc), a natural compound found in garlic, has garnered attention for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, positioning it as a potential therapeutic agent for DR. The aim of the present study was to investigate the therapeutic efficacy of Alc in DR management and elucidate its underlying mechanisms of action. We established a DR model in male Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 50, 200–250 g, 12 weeks old) using a high-fat diet for 8 weeks plus a low dose of streptozotocin administered at the start of the 4th week. The diabetic (Diab) animals were administered Alc (16 mg/kg/day, orally), either alone or in combination with mitochondrial division inhibitor-1 (Mdivi-1) as a mitophagy inhibitor, starting 28 days before tissue sampling. We evaluated histopathological changes, metabolic abnormalities associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the expression of proteins regulating pyroptosis (NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3, cleaved-caspase 1, and gasdermin D-N terminal) and mitophagy (phosphatase and tensin homolog-induced kinase 1 [PINK1] and Parkin), as well as the levels of oxidative stress mediators and proinflammatory cytokines. Alc treatment effectively ameliorated histopathological changes and metabolic abnormalities associated with T2DM. It downregulated pyroptosis-related proteins, upregulated mitophagy-related proteins, reduced proinflammatory cytokine levels, and attenuated oxidative stress. Treatment with Mdivi-1 suppressed the beneficial effects of Alc. Our findings highlight the therapeutic potential of Alc in managing DR by targeting multiple pathophysiological pathways, including pyroptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress. The observed antipyroptotic effects of Alc were partially mediated by the activation of the PINK1/parkin-mediated mitophagy pathway. Additional studies are necessary to thoroughly understand the therapeutic mechanisms of Alc and its viability as a treatment choice for DR.

Abstract Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the predominant cause of mortality and disability worldwide. Against this backdrop, finding effective drugs for the pharmacological treatment of CVD has become one of the most urgent and challenging issues in medical research. Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is one of the oldest plants and is world-renowned for its dietary and medicinal values. Allicin (diallyl thiosulfinate) is one of the primary natural active ingredients in garlic, which has been proven to have powerful cardioprotective effects and mediate various pathological processes related to CVD, such as inflammatory factor secretion, myocardial cell apoptosis, oxidative stress, and more. Therefore, allicin holds a promising application prospect in the treatment of CVD. This review summarized the biological functions of allicin and its potential mechanisms in CVD, including antioxidation, anti-inflammation, and anti-apoptosis effects. Reckoning with these, we delved into recent studies on allicin’s cardioprotective effects concerning various CVDs, such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, myocardial infarction, arrhythmia, cardiac hypertrophy, heart failure, and cardiotoxicity. Further, considering the tremendous advancement in nanomedicine, nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems show promise in addressing limitations of allicin’s clinical applications, including improving its solubility, stability, and bioavailability. Through this review, we hope to provide a reference for further research on allicin in cardioprotection and drug development. Graphical Abstract

Garlic contains various components, such as allicin, ajoenes, and allyl sulfides, which are organosulfur compounds. It exhibits antimicrobial activities in all forms, including garlic powder, garlic extract, and garlic oil. Additionally, it exerts anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antibiofilm, and antifungal effects. The drastic increase in drug-resistant organisms worldwide, especially methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains, has led to treatment failure in various infectious diseases. To overcome this issue, we aimed to assess the antibacterial activity of garlic extract against MRSA and explore its action mechanism against penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) in this study. Mueller–Hinton agar was used for the agar well diffusion test. Moreover, bactericidal activity was determined using the Mueller–Hinton agar and spot tests. Molecular docking was performed using AUTODOCK to evaluate the PBP-binding ability of allicin. A wide zone of inhibition was observed for MRSA, and molecular docking revealed a strong interaction between PBP3 of S. aureus and allicin. Overall, our findings revealed the antibacterial activity of garlic extract against MRSA, a prevalent gram-positive coccus causing healthcare-associated infections. In addition to its affordability, the beneficial effects of garlic suggest its therapeutic potential for MRSA treatment in combination with cefoxitin.

In the tumor treatment by Fenton reaction‒based nanocatalytic medicines, the gradual consumption of Fe(II) ions greatly reduces the production of hydroxyl radicals, one of the most active reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to much deteriorated therapeutic efficacy. Meanwhile, the ROS consumption caused by the highly expressed reduced glutathione (GSH) in the tumor microenvironment further prevents tumor apoptosis. Therefore, using the highly expressed GSH in tumor tissue to promote the Fe(III) reduction to Fe(II) can not only weaken the resistance of tumor to ROS attack, but also generate enough Fe(II) to accelerate the Fenton reaction. In view of this, an allicin‒modified FeO1‐xOH nanocatalyst possessing varied valence states (II, III) has been designed and synthesized. The coexistence of Fe(II)/Fe(III) enables the simultaneous occurrence of Fenton reaction and GSH oxidation, and the Fe(III) reduction by GSH oxidation results in the promoted cyclic conversion of Fe ions in tumor and positive catalytic therapeutic effects. Moreover, allicin capable of regulating cell cycle and suppressing tumor growth is loaded on FeO1‐xOH nanosheets to activate immune response against tumors and inhibit tumor recurrence, finally achieving the tumor regression efficiently and sustainably. This therapeutic strategy provides an innovative approach to formulate efficient antitumor nanomedicine for enhanced tumor treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of different levels of allicin on the growth performance, meat quality, and economic benefits of finishing pigs, and to determine the optimal supplemental level of allicin in finishing pigs. A total of 280 healthy finishing pigs with similar body weights were selected and randomly divided into four groups, with seven replicates per group and 10 of pigs per replicate. The control group of finishing pigs was fed a basic diet, while the experimental groups were fed a basic diet supplemented with 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg of allicin, respectively. The preliminary trial lasted for 1 week, followed by a formal experimental period of 60 days. The results showed that compared to the control group, the average daily weight gain of pigs fed with 400 and 800 mg/kg of allicin increased by 10.53% and 7.89%, respectively (P<0.05), and the feed-to-gain ratio decreased by 9.19% and 7.42% (P<0.05), respectively. Compared to the control group, feeding 400 and 800 mg/kg of allicin improved the carcass weight, lean meat rate, and slaughter rate of finishing pigs (P<0.05), and reduced the backfat thickness (P<0.05). Compared to the control group, feeding 400 and 800 mg/kg of allicin reduced the L* value of the meat color and the drip loss and shear force (P<0.05), and increased the pH24 h value of the back longest muscle after slaughter of finishing pigs (P<0.05). Compared to the control group, the weight gain income of the allicin groups increased by 4.12%, 10.34%, and 7.67%, profits increased by 8.80%, 27.40%, and 20.83%, respectively. The study indicates that an appropriate amount of allicin can improve the growth performance, slaughter performance, and meat quality of finishing pigs, increase breeding profits, and the optimal addition level of allicin is 400 mg/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) has been subject of fascination and research for centuries, owing to its diverse culinary and medicinal properties which further afftects its agronomic significance. This review paper delves into the multifaceted aspects of the garlic crop, aiming to unveil the various dimensions that make it truly remarkable botanical wonder. Among the plethora of compounds found in garlic, allicin an organosulfur compound (OSC), has emerged as a focal point of interest for researchers and health enthusiasts alike. Allicin is known for its powerful antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cardiovascular benefits, rendering garlic a potent natural remedy and a valuable addition to realm of alternative medicine. Allicin's synthesis, bioavailability, and mechanism behind its medicinal effects has also been discussed. Furthermore, the impact of various drying techniques on the allicin content of garlic has been examined. As the understanding of allicin's health benefits continues to evolve, this comprehensive review contributes valuable insights into optimizing garlic's drying methods to preserve and enhance the allicin content, thus maximizing its therapeutic potential. By synthesizing existing knowledge, we provide a platform for future research to address gaps in the field of garlic drying technology and its profound impact on allicin retention for various health applications. [Display omitted] • Bioprotective properties of garlic. • Allicin: a potent bioactive compound with diverse health benefits. • Encapsulation improves bioavailability of allicin. • Novel drying techniques reduces loss of bioactive compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural compounds have been used since the earliest civilizations and remain, to this day, a safer alternative for treating various dental problems. These present antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and antimutagenic effects, making them useful in the prophylactic and curative treatment of various oral diseases such as infections, gingivitis, periodontitis, and even cancer. Due to the high incidence of unpleasant adverse reactions to synthetic compounds, natural products tend to gradually replace conventional treatment, as they can be just as potent and cause fewer, milder adverse effects. Researchers use several methods to measure the effectiveness and safety profile of these compounds, and employing standard techniques also contributes to progress across all medical disciplines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: The research provides valuable insights for designing garlic-based products with enhanced antimicrobial effectiveness for both food preservation and health applications. The health properties of garlic (Allium sativum L.) are attributed to thiosulfinates, flavonoids, phenols, and bioactive polysaccharides. These compounds, however, can degrade during processing methods. As hot air-drying is a commonly used preservation method due to its relatively simple operation, this study investigated the effects of garlic slices dried at various temperatures (50, 70, and 90 °C) on the growth kinetic parameters of model strain Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, the total thiosulfinate content (TTC), and the total phenolic content (TPC). Observations showed that the concentration of garlic extracts was a significant factor influencing the kinetics of bacterial growth, while the garlic drying temperature appeared to have no effect on E. coli activity. Analysis of TTS in fresh and dried garlic did not reveal statistically significant differences in their levels. However, hot air drying at 50 °C significantly reduced the TPC by nearly 25%, whereas drying garlic at higher temperatures (70 °C and 90 °C) did not lead to a significant loss in TPC compared to the raw samples. The determined growth kinetic parameters of the tested E. coli strain could serve as a basis for selecting optimal drying process conditions and extract concentrations when designing garlic products with enhanced antimicrobial properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the phytochemical composition, antioxidant (hydrogen atom and single-atom transfer mechanisms), and digestive enzyme inhibitory (alpha-amylase, alpha-glucosidase, and pancreatic lipase) activities of ethanol-based extractions and traditional preparations (infusion) of the leaves of wild-edible Allium species (A. kharputense, A. affine, A. shirnakiense, and A. akaka) from the highlands of Eastern Anatolia. Among the eight extracts analyzed, ethanol extractions of the A. kharputense and A. akaka leaves exhibited better biotherapeutic activities and had the highest bioactive content. The dominant bioactive profile was composed of mainly allicin and phenolic compounds (chlorogenic acid, hesperidin, rutin, isoquercitrin, and quercetin) with small amounts of fatty acids. These data were similar to the biological activities and chemical composition of common Allium species and suggest the utilization of the extracts of wild-edible Allium species in the development of Allium-based biotherapeutics or nutraceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the predominant cause of mortality and disability worldwide. Against this backdrop, finding effective drugs for the pharmacological treatment of CVD has become one of the most urgent and challenging issues in medical research. Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is one of the oldest plants and is world-renowned for its dietary and medicinal values. Allicin (diallyl thiosulfinate) is one of the primary natural active ingredients in garlic, which has been proven to have powerful cardioprotective effects and mediate various pathological processes related to CVD, such as inflammatory factor secretion, myocardial cell apoptosis, oxidative stress, and more. Therefore, allicin holds a promising application prospect in the treatment of CVD. This review summarized the biological functions of allicin and its potential mechanisms in CVD, including antioxidation, anti-inflammation, and anti-apoptosis effects. Reckoning with these, we delved into recent studies on allicin's cardioprotective effects concerning various CVDs, such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, myocardial infarction, arrhythmia, cardiac hypertrophy, heart failure, and cardiotoxicity. Further, considering the tremendous advancement in nanomedicine, nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems show promise in addressing limitations of allicin's clinical applications, including improving its solubility, stability, and bioavailability. Through this review, we hope to provide a reference for further research on allicin in cardioprotection and drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In response to China’s ban on medicinal feed additives with growth-promoting functions in livestock and poultry feed, there is an urgent need in modern animal husbandry for alternatives to antibiotics to sustain livestock health and improve feed conversion efficiency. Allicin, known for its safety, efficiency, lack of drug resistance and absence of residue, regulates the intestinal flora structure; inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria; improves intestinal health, immunity and stress resistance; and improves animal production. Methods: To investigate the impact of allicin on immune performance and immune-related gene expression in Muchuan black-bone chickens, diets were supplemented with varying allicin levels (50, 100, 200 mg/kg), designated as test groups A, B and C, respectively. Initially, growth performance was assessed. Subsequently, immunoglobulins were measured via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and colorimetry; immune titers for avian influenza and Newcastle disease were evaluated using hemagglutination and hemagglutination inhibition tests and the expression of immune genes was analyzed via real-time quantitative PCR. Finally, serum biochemical indices in each group were determined. Result: Compared to the control group, allicin supplementation resulted in increased average fasting body weight in the experimental group and significantly (P<0.05) higher thymus and musogastric indices in groups A and C, respectively. Serum levels of immunoglobulin M in groups A and B and immunoglobulin G levels were significantly higher in all experimental groups than in controls. Antibody titers against avian influenza H5 and H7 strains were higher in all test groups, with Newcastle disease antibody titers in groups B and C significantly higher than those in controls. The mRNA expression levels of IFN-γ were lower across all experimental groups, whereas the expression levels of TLR3 in groups B and C and TLR15 in group B were higher. Serum levels of triglycerides in group A were significantly higher and blood urea nitrogen levels were significantly lower in groups B and C than in controls. These findings indicate that dietary allicin (50-200 mg/kg) significantly improves growth performance, immunity and protein and lipid metabolism in Muchuan black-bone chickens, offering valuable data for the development and use of allicin as an antibiotic alternative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Methane reduction technology has not yet been put into practical use because of problems such as reduced digestibility, increased costs, additives remaining and microbial adaptations. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of allicin and illite supplementation on ruminal methane production, growth performance and carcass characteristics of the Hanwoo steers. Methods: For the in vitro experiment, 3 Hanwoo cows equipped with rumen fistula were used. The 28 Hanwoo steers were randomly assigned to one of the four dietary groups: control (CON), T1 (1.0% illite), T2 (0.1% allicin), or T3 (1.0% illite and 0.1% allicin). All data were analyzed using the generalized linear model procedure. Result: The methane production was rapidly increased for all the treatments after 8 h, but decreased compared to the control after 24 h (P<0.05) of incubation. There was no difference in the growth performance and carcass characteristics of steers among the treatments. Thus, allicin 0.1% and/or illite 1.0% have the potential to be used as natural feed additives to reduce methane production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the significant disabling outcomes of diabetes mellitus characterized by retinal microvascular damage, inflammation, and neuronal dysfunction. Allicin (Alc), a natural compound found in garlic, has garnered attention for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, positioning it as a potential therapeutic agent for DR. The aim of the present study was to investigate the therapeutic efficacy of Alc in DR management and elucidate its underlying mechanisms of action. We established a DR model in male Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 50, 200–250 g, 12 weeks old) using a high-fat diet for 8 weeks plus a low dose of streptozotocin administered at the start of the 4th week. The diabetic (Diab) animals were administered Alc (16 mg/kg/day, orally), either alone or in combination with mitochondrial division inhibitor-1 (Mdivi-1) as a mitophagy inhibitor, starting 28 days before tissue sampling. We evaluated histopathological changes, metabolic abnormalities associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the expression of proteins regulating pyroptosis (NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3, cleaved-caspase 1, and gasdermin D-N terminal) and mitophagy (phosphatase and tensin homolog-induced kinase 1 [PINK1] and Parkin), as well as the levels of oxidative stress mediators and proinflammatory cytokines. Alc treatment effectively ameliorated histopathological changes and metabolic abnormalities associated with T2DM. It downregulated pyroptosis-related proteins, upregulated mitophagy-related proteins, reduced proinflammatory cytokine levels, and attenuated oxidative stress. Treatment with Mdivi-1 suppressed the beneficial effects of Alc. Our findings highlight the therapeutic potential of Alc in managing DR by targeting multiple pathophysiological pathways, including pyroptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress. The observed antipyroptotic effects of Alc were partially mediated by the activation of the PINK1/parkin-mediated mitophagy pathway. Additional studies are necessary to thoroughly understand the therapeutic mechanisms of Alc and its viability as a treatment choice for DR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Black garlic, a fermented form of garlic, is known for its medicinal benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and anti-cancer properties. The heating process of making black garlic alters its flavor profile, appearance, and bioactive properties. The paper highlights studies that investigate the potential anti-cancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and hepatoprotective properties of black garlic for further research to explore the therapeutic applications of black garlic and its bioactive compounds in various clinical settings as well as the potential impact of allicin during post-harvest degradation. Black garlic is a healthy food product made by heating the entire garlic bulb for several weeks at a temperature ranging from 60°C to 90°C and a humidity of 70% to 90%. Allicin is a sulfur compound naturally present in raw garlic responsible for its pungent odor and taste. During the fermentation process of black garlic, allicin undergoes degradation into various other sulfur compounds, contributing to the transformation of the garlic's flavor, color, and texture. While the degradation of allicin is one of the crucial steps in the development of black garlic's unique characteristics, it can also have implications for the shelf life and post-harvest quality of the product. Other than the enzymatic transformation of alliin into allicin as a key event in the postharvest deterioration of derived garlic where the release of allicin and its subsequent breakdown products contributes to the development of its characteristic flavors and aromas, temperature, pH, and humidity, can influence the stability of allicin and its breakdown products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Allicin, a bioactive compound derived from garlic (Allium sativum), demonstrates antibacterial activity against a broad spectrum of bacteria including the most common meningitis pathogens. In order to advocate for allicin as a potential therapeutic candidate for bacterial meningitis, the present study aimed to assess the ability of allicin to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) using an in vitro model. Methods: The cell viability of the human brain endothelial cell line hCMEC/D3 after incubation with various concentrations of allicin was investigated using an MTT assay at 3 and 24 h. Additionally, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production of allicin-treated hCMEC/D3 cells was examined at 3 h. The concentrations of allicin that were not toxic to the cells, as determined by the MTT assay, and did not significantly increase ROS generation, were then used to investigate allicin's ability to traverse the in vitro BBB model for 3 h. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis was utilized to examine the allicin concentration capable of passing the in vitro BBB model. The cellular uptake experiments were subsequently performed to observe the uptake of allicin into hCMEC/D3 cells. The pkCSM online tool was used to predict the absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and pharmacokinetic properties of allicin and S-allylmercaptoglutathione (GSSA). Results: The results from MTT assay indicated that the highest non-toxicity concentration of allicin on hCMEC/D3 cells was 5 µg/ml at 3 h and 2 µg/ml at 24 h. Allicin significantly enhanced ROS production of hCMEC/D3 cells at 10 µg/ml at 3 h. After applying the non-toxicity concentrations of allicin (0.5–5 µg/ml) to the in vitro BBB model for 3 h, allicin was not detectable in both apical and basolateral chambers in the presence of hCMEC/D3 cells. On the contrary, allicin was detected in both chambers in the absence of the cells. The results from cellular uptake experiments at 3 h revealed that hCMEC/D3 cells at 1 × 104 cells could uptake allicin at concentrations of 0.5, 1, and 2 µg/ml. Moreover, allicin uptake of hCMEC/D3 cells was proportional to the cell number, and the cells at 5 × 104 could completely uptake allicin at a concentration of 5 µg/ml within 0.5 h. The topological polar surface area (TPSA) predicting for allicin was determined to be 62.082 Å2, indicating its potential ability to cross the BBB. Additionally, the calculated logBB value surpassing 0.3 suggests that the compound may exhibit ease of penetration through the BBB. Conclusion: The present results suggested that allicin was rapidly taken up by hCMEC/D3 cells in vitro BBB model. The prediction results of allicin's distribution patterns suggested that the compound possesses the capability to enter the brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disease characterized by chronic hyperglycemia and impaired islet secretion that places a heavy burden on the global health care system due to its high incidence rate, long disease course and many complications. Fortunately, garlic (Allium sativum L.), a well-known medicinal plant and functional food without the toxicity and side effects of conventional drugs, has shown positive effects in the treatment of diabetes and its complications. With interdisciplinary development and in-depth exploration, we offer a clear and comprehensive summary of the research from the past ten years, focusing on the mechanisms and development processes of garlic in the treatment of diabetes and its complications, aiming to provide a new perspective for the treatment of diabetes and promote the efficient development of this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Garlic contains various components, such as allicin, ajoenes, and allyl sulfides, which are organosulfur compounds. It exhibits antimicrobial activities in all forms, including garlic powder, garlic extract, and garlic oil. Additionally, it exerts anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antibiofilm, and antifungal effects. The drastic increase in drug-resistant organisms worldwide, especially methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains, has led to treatment failure in various infectious diseases. To overcome this issue, we aimed to assess the antibacterial activity of garlic extract against MRSA and explore its action mechanism against penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) in this study. Mueller–Hinton agar was used for the agar well diffusion test. Moreover, bactericidal activity was determined using the Mueller–Hinton agar and spot tests. Molecular docking was performed using AUTODOCK to evaluate the PBP-binding ability of allicin. A wide zone of inhibition was observed for MRSA, and molecular docking revealed a strong interaction between PBP3 of S. aureus and allicin. Overall, our findings revealed the antibacterial activity of garlic extract against MRSA, a prevalent gram-positive coccus causing healthcare-associated infections. In addition to its affordability, the beneficial effects of garlic suggest its therapeutic potential for MRSA treatment in combination with cefoxitin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast cancer (BC) is a lethal disorder that threatens the life safety of the majority of females globally, with rising morbidity and mortality year by year. Doxorubicin is a cytotoxic anthracycline antibiotic that is widely used as one of the first-line chemotherapy agents for patients with BC. However, the efficacy of doxorubicin in the clinic is largely limited by its serious side effects and acquired drug resistance. Allicin (diallyl thiosulfinate), as the major component and key active compound present in freshly crushed garlic, has shown potential effects in suppressing chemotherapy resistance in various cancers. Our research aimed to explore the relationship between allicin and doxorubicin resistance in BC. To generate doxorubicin-resistant BC cell lines (MCF-7/DOX and MDA-MB-231/DOX), doxorubicin-sensitive parental cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 were continuously exposed to stepwise increased concentrations of doxorubicin over a period of 6 months. CCK-8, colony formation, flow cytometry, RT-qPCR, and western blotting assays were performed to investigate the effects of allicin and/or doxorubicin treatment on the viability, proliferation and apoptosis and the expression of Nrf2, HO-1, phosphate AKT and AKT in doxorubicin-resistant BC cells. Our results showed that combined treatment of allicin with doxorubicin exhibited better effects on inhibiting the proliferation and enhancing the apoptosis of doxorubicin-resistant BC cells than treatment with allicin or doxorubicin alone. Mechanistically, allicin suppressed the levels of Nrf2, HO-1, and phosphate AKT in doxorubicin-resistant BC cells. Collectively, allicin improves the doxorubicin sensitivity of BC cells by inactivating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants in the Allium genus have a significant economic impact due to their production of important food and medicinal compounds. Despite their agricultural and pharmaceutical value, breeding programs for Allium species are lagging behind those of other major crop plants. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of small non-coding RNAs that regulate post-transcriptional gene expression. In order to identify distinct miRNAs and their target proteins involved in Allicin biosynthesis pathways under heat-stress conditions, available Allium species Expressed Sequence Tags (ESTs) and miRNA databases were extensively searched and bioinformatically analyzed. Three distinct miRNA candidates targeting seven genes in garlic were identified. The real-time RT-PCR analysis results revealed that miR5021 and miR565 regulate the Alliinase and Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) genes under cold stress (4°C), while miR5184 regulates the same genes at elevated temperatures (37 and 45°C). Based on the High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) results, the expression of the Alliinase gene was found to be higher in both stem and leaf tissues compared to the expression of miR5021 under cold stress conditions. This indicates the potential involvement of miR5021 in the biosynthetic pathway of Allicin production. Furthermore, the results of the elevated heat-stress treatment showed that the expression of the HSP70 gene under thermal stress conditions at 37°C in both stem and leaf tissue was significantly increased compared to the expression of miR5658 and miR5184 at 45°C. However the expression of the HSP70 gene in the stem tissue was significantly decreased compared to the expression of miR5658 and miR5184 genes. This experimental study aims to identify miRNAs associated with the allicin production pathway in two tissues of garlic: leaves and cloves. Among the main findings of this research, we can mention the identification of 3 miRNAs that are likely to play a role in the allicin synthesis pathway. The results of this study suggest that environmental factors may affect the biosynthesis of allicin in plants of the Allium family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a type of diffuse lung injury that seriously affects the survival of critically ill patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can serve as promising therapeutic targets or offer insights for the development of potential therapeutic strategies against ALI. In our previous study, we demonstrated the protective effect of allicin in ALI, but the role of miRNAs in the alleviation of ALI by allicin remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether miRNAs mediate the effects of allicin on ALI. Cell viability and proliferation were determined using CCK-8 and EdU assays, respectively, while cellular apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry. The claudin-4 protein was detected by quantitative real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting. The binding of miR-455 with claudin-4 was determined by bioinformatics analysis and validated by dual luciferase reporter assays. The lung wet/dry ratio of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated rats was determined by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and TUNEL staining of the pulmonary tissues. The levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO), interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We observed that allicin alleviated LPS-induced injury in A549 cells, and claudin-4 knockdown reversed the protective effect of allicin in ALI. Claudin-4 is a direct target of miR-455-3p, and miR-455-3p overexpression partially reversed the protective effect of allicin in LPS-treated A549 cells. Subsequent in vivo experiments confirmed that allicin protects against LPS-induced ALI by regulating the miR-455-3p/claudin-4 axis. The study revealed that the protective effect of allicin in ALI is mediated via miR-455-3p, which suppresses the expression of claudin-4.

In the present study, the effects of different levels of allicin supplementation (0.00 % as control, 0.30 %, 0.45 %, 0.60 %, 0.75 %, and 0.90 %) on the growth performance, biochemical composition and immune capacity of ivory shells (Babylonia areolata) were investigated. Allicin supplementation in the daily diet significantly enhanced growth performance, with the highest specific growth rates observed at concentrations ranging from 0.75 % to 0.90 % (2.18–2.20 %/d), and the lowest feed conversion ratio (1.39) recorded at 0.60 %. Correspondingly, mRNA expression levels of two appetite-related genes, Orexin and Neuropeptide Y (NPY), in the hepatopancreas significantly increased, while the expression of the appetite-suppressing gene Leptin significantly decreased with increasing allicin supplementation. The amounts of almost all detected fatty acids significantly increased when ivory shells were fed diets supplemented with allicin, while their profiles varied, showing increases in C20:1n9 and C22:6n3 (DHA), and decreases in C16:0, C18:2n6, and C20:4n6 (ARA). Lipase activities in both the intestine and hepatopancreas significantly increased in the allicin-supplemented groups, with peak values observed at 0.90 % and 0.75 % allicin supplementation, respectively (3.64 U/g prot in the intestine and 9.52 U/g prot in the hepatopancreas). Allicin supplementation improved the antioxidant and antimicrobial abilities of ivory shells, leading to increased activities of total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and lysozyme in the hepatopancreas, and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) contents. Similar trends were observed in mRNA levels of SOD, CAT and lysozyme genes. In conclusion, moderate allicin supplementation in artificial diets (approximately 0.75 %-0.90 %) can significantly enhance growth performance, increase muscle lipid content, and boost immune capabilities of ivory shells.

Striae distensae (SD), commonly known as Stretch marks or striae, are one of the most common benign dermal lesions frequently seen in females that often cause a significant physical and psychological impact. A number of treatment modalities ranging from topicals to invasive approaches are commercially available, however, none of the available options is capable of complete eradication of SD. As effectiveness of most of the available topical formulations for SD is attributed to the combined effects of their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and proliferative effects, allicin and probiotic based topical formulations are hypothesized to be effective in treatment and prevention of SD. Both allicin and probiotics are able to reduce the inflammatory response via suppression of transcription factor i.e., nuclear factor (NF)-κB, and pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines levels. Moreover, the antioxidant effect of allicin and probiotics is considered to decrease the reactive oxygen species induced fragmentation of collagen. Also, the effects of allicin on the collagen and elastin tissue as well as beneficial effects of probiotics and their metabolites on skin elasticity and skin hydration are expected to provide multiple target approach for the management of SD. Altogether, a combination formulation containing both allicin and probiotics is considered to be novel approach for the prevention and management of SD.

Objective To explore the effect of allicin on the proliferation of oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma(OTSCC) cells line(CAL27). Methods Human CAL27 cells were used in this study. The cells were incubated with different concentrations of allicin (5, 10, 20, 40, 60, 100, 200, 400 μmol/L) and control DMSO. CCK8 assay was performed to detect cell proliferation. RT-qPCR method was used to detect the expression of proliferation related marker ki-67; Transcriptome sequencing and pathway enrichment analysis were performed. Results Lower concentrations (20 μmol/L) of allicin inhibited CAL27 cells proliferation (P＜0.01).Allicin significantly inhibited the expression of ki-67 in CAL27 cells at lower concentrations(20 μmol/L, P＜0.01). Allicin inhibited tumor related microRNA expression, especially miR-200a and miR-199a1. Conclusions Lower concentration of allicin may significantly inhibit the proliferation of oral cancer cells by inhibition of tumor related microRNAs as a potential mechanism.

The purpose of the experiment was to study the effects of different levels of allicin on the growth performance and economic benefits of mutton sheep, and to determine the optimum level of allicin in mutton sheep breeding. Forty healthy small-tailed Han sheep with similar body weight and condition were randomly divided into four groups, with 10 sheep in each group, and each sheep was a repeat. Sheep in control group were fed basal diets, while sheep in experimental group 1, group 2 and group 3 were fed experimental diets containing allicin 400, 800, 1 200 mg/kg, respectively. The pre-feeding period was seven days, and the formal trial period was 56 days. The results showed that compared with the control group, the final weight, total weight gain, average daily weight gain and average daily feed intake of mutton sheep in experimental group 2 and experimental group 3 increased significantly (P<0.05), while the feed to weight ratio decreased significantly (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the serum levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-10 (IL-10), and immunoglobulin G (IgG) in experimental group 2 and experimental group 3 increased significantly (P<0.05), while tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) decreased significantly (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the rumen ammonia nitrogen level and acetic acid/propionic acid concentration in experimental group 2 and experimental group 3 decreased significantly (P<0.05), while propionic acid concentration increased (P<0.05). The levels of serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) in all the allicin groups were significantly higher than those in control group (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the weight gain income of the allicin groups increased by 7.26%, 14.97%, and 14.06% respectively, and the breeding profit increased by 7.01%, 14.67%, and 6.49%, respectively. The study indicates that allicin can improve the growth performance, immunity, rumen fermentation function, and breeding profit of mutton sheep, and the appropriate amount of allicin is 800 mg/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To explore the effect of allicin on the proliferation of oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC) cells line (CAL27). Methods Human CAL27 cells were used in this study. The cells were incubated with different concentrations of allicin (5, 10, 20, 40, 60, 100, 200, 400 μmol/L) and control DMSO. CCK8 assay was performed to detect cell proliferation. RT-qPCR method was used to detect the expression of proliferation related marker ki-67; Transcriptome sequencing and pathway enrichment analysis were performed. Results Lower concentrations (20 μmol/L) of allicin inhibited CAL27 cells proliferation (P＜0.01).Allicin significantly inhibited the expression of ki-67 in CAL27 cells at lower concentrations(20 μmol/L, P＜0.01). Allicin inhibited tumor related microRNA expression, especially miR-200a and miR-199a1. Conclusions Lower concentration of allicin may significantly inhibit the proliferation of oral cancer cells by inhibition of tumor related microRNAs as a potential mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most important bulbs crops farmed in India is garlic (Allium sativum L.). It is a rich source of bioactive substances that satisfy a person’s daily nutritional demands for well-being. Allicin is the most prominent bioactive compound in garlic that exhibits various pharmacological properties including highly antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, anti-diabetic, antimicrobial, anti-aging, and anti-hyperlipidemic effects. It offers defense against a variety of malignancies such as asthma, bronchitis, hemorrhoids, fever, cough, headache, stomach discomfort, low and high blood sugar, and snakebites can all be treated with garlic. Raw garlic has been proven the ‘Panacea’ for cardiovascular and heart-related diseases since earlier ago. This review emphasizes the biological role of this wonderful medicinal plant in the treatment of various ailments. The medicinal effects of different constituents of this plant have been also addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allicin (AL) is one of garlic-derived organosulfides and has a variety of pharmacological effects. Studies have reported that AL has notable inhibitory effects on liver cancer, gastric cancer, breast cancer, and other cancers. However, there are no relevant reports about its role in human nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of non-apoptotic regulated cell death. Increasing evidence indicates that induction of ferroptosis can inhibit the proliferation, migration, invasion, and survival of various cancer cells, which act as a tumor suppressor in cancer. In this study, we confirmed that AL can inhibit cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and survival in human nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells. Our finding shows that AL can induce the ferroptosis axis by decreasing the level of GSH and GPX4 and promoting the induction of toxic LPO and ROS. AL-mediated cytotoxicity in human nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells is dependent on ferroptosis. Therefore, AL has good anti-cancer properties and is expected to be a potential drug for the treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global burden of liver disease is enormous, which highlights the need for effective hepatoprotective agents. It was reported that allicin exhibits protective effects against a range of diseases. In this study, we further evaluated allicin's effect and mechanism in acute hepatic injury. Liver injury in mice was induced by intraperitoneal injection with 1% CCl4 (10 mL/kg/day). When the first dose was given, CCl4 was given immediately after administration of different doses of allicin (40, 20, and 10 mg/kg/day) as well as compound glycyrrhizin (CGI, 80 mg/kg/day), and then different doses of allicin (40, 20, and 10 mg/kg/day) as well as compound glycyrrhizin (CGI, 80 mg/kg/day) were administrated every 12 h. The animals were dissected 24 h after the first administration. The findings demonstrated a significant inhibition of CCl4-induced acute liver injury following allicin treatment. This inhibition was evidenced by notable reductions in serum levels of transaminases, specifically aspartate transaminase, along with mitigated histological damage to the liver. In this protective process, allicin plays the role of reducing the amounts or the expression levels of proinflammatory cytokines, IL-1β, IL-6. Furthermore, allicin recovered the activities of the antioxidant enzyme catalase (CAT) and reduced the production of malondialdehyde (MDA) in a dose-dependent manner, and also reduced liver Caspase 3, Caspase 8, and BAX to inhibit liver cell apoptosis. Further analysis showed that the administration of allicin inhibited the increased protein levels of Nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), which is related to inflammation and oxidative stress. The in vitro study of the LPS-induced RAW264.7 inflammatory cell model confirmed that allicin can inhibit important inflammation-related factors and alleviate inflammation. This research firstly clarified that allicin has a significant protective effect on CCl4-induced liver injury via inhibiting the inflammatory response and hepatocyte apoptosis, alleviating oxidative stress associated with the progress of liver damage, highlighting the potential of allicin as a hepatoprotective agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allicin is a safe herbal extract believed to have antitumor effects, which, however, remain unclear. The aim of the present work was to discuss Allicin antitumor effects on cervical cancer using cell experiments. Using Hela and Siha to our research objectives in our study, first step, difference concentration of Allicin (20, 40, and 80 μM) treated Hela and Siha cell lines, and next step, discuss circEIF4G2 effects in Allicin antitumor effects in Hela and Siha cell lines; the cell proliferation and EdU‐positive cell number by CCK‐8 and EdU staining; cell apoptosis rate by flow cytometry; invasion cell number by transwell assay; wound healing rate by wound healing assay; and relative mRNA and protein levels using qRT‐PCR and WB assay. With Allicin supplement, the cell proliferation and EdU‐positive cell number were significantly depressed with cell apoptosis rate significantly increasing; invasion cell number and wound healing rate significantly suppressed with circEIF4G2 mRNA expression significantly down‐regulation (p <.05, respectively). However, there was no significant difference among Allicin, si‐circEIF4G2, and Allicin+si‐circEIF4G2 in cell biological activities including cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion and migration, and relative gene and protein expression. Allicin depresses biological activities of cervical cancer cells through down‐regulating circEIF4G2/HOXA1/AKT/mTOR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Testicular ischemia-reperfusion induced by testicular torsion-detorsion increases the level of reactive oxygen species, leading to testicular damage. Allicin, one of the most active ingredients in garlic, is a significant exogenous antioxidant. In the research, the efficacy of allicin in treating testicular ischemia-reperfusion injury was assessed. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included sixty Sprague-Dawley male rats. Three groups with 20 rats per group were created as follows: control group, testicular ischemia/reperfusion-induced group, and testicular ischemia-reperfusion plus treatment with allicin group. The control group underwent a sham operation of the left testis without other interventions. In the testicular ischemia/reperfusion-induced group, rat left testis was subjected to 720° torsion for two hours and then detorsion. In the allicin-treated group, in addition to testicular ischemia-reperfusion, 50 mg/kg of allicin was injected intraperitoneally, starting immediately following detorsion. Testicular tissue samples were obtained to measure the protein expression of xanthine oxidase, which is a major source of reactive oxygen species formation, malondialdehyde level (a reliable marker of reactive oxygen species), and testicular spermatogenic function. RESULTS: Testicular ischemia-reperfusion significantly increased the expression of xanthine oxidase and malondialdehyde levels in ipsilateral testes while reducing testicular spermatogenic function. The expression of xanthine oxidase and malondialdehyde levels were significantly lower in ipsilateral testes, whereas testicular spermatogenic function in the allicin-treated group was significantly higher compared with those in the testicular ischemia-reperfusion group. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate that allicin administration improves ischemia/reperfusion-induced testicular damage by limiting reactive oxygen species generation via inhibition of xanthine oxidase expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural products, particularly medicinal plants, are crucial in combating cancer and aiding in the discovery and development of new therapeutic agents owing to their biologically active compounds. They offer a promising avenue for developing effective anticancer medications because of their low toxicity, diverse chemical structures, and ability to target various cancers. Allicin is one of the main ingredients in garlic (Allium sativum L.). It is a bioactive sulfur compound maintained in various plant sections in a precursor state. Numerous studies have documented the positive health benefits of this natural compound on many chronic conditions, including gastric, hepatic, breast, lung, cervical, prostate, and colon cancer. Moreover, allicin may target several cancer hallmarks or fundamental biological traits and functions that influence cancer development and spread. Cancer hallmarks include sustained proliferation, evasion of growth suppressors, metastasis, replicative immortality, angiogenesis, resistance to cell death, altered cellular energetics, and immune evasion. The findings of this review should provide researchers and medical professionals with a solid basis to support fundamental and clinical investigations of allicin as a prospective anticancer drug. This review outlines the anticancer role of allicin in each hallmark of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work represents an overview of the current investigations involving organosulfur compounds and colorectal cancer. The molecules discussed in this review have been investigated regarding their impact on colorectal cancer directly, at the in vitro, in vivo, and clinical stages. Organosulfur compounds may have indirect effects on colorectal cancer, such as due to their modulating effects on the intestinal microbiota or their positive effects on intestinal mucosal health. Here, we focus on their direct effects via the repression of multidrug resistance proteins, triggering of apoptosis (via the inhibition of histone deacetylases, increases in reactive oxygen species, p53 activation, β-catenin inhibition, damage in the mitochondrial membrane, etc.), activation of TGF-β, binding to tubulin, inhibition of angiogenesis and metastasis mechanisms, and inhibition of cancer stem cells, among others. In general, the interesting positive effects of these nutraceuticals in in vitro tests must be further analyzed with more in vivo models before conducting clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the effect of the restoring effects of allicin (diallylthiosulfinate, DADS) on the altered lipid profile, osmotic fragility and membrane-bound enzymes in 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) – induced hamster buccal pouch carcinogenesis. 1 week after receiving DADS (20 mg/kg body weight) orally, the buccal pouches of hamsters were painted daily with 0.5% DMBA in liquid paraffin for 14 weeks. The experiment was terminated at the end of 16 weeks. The restoring effects of DADS were evaluated by measuring the lipid profile, osmotic fragility and membrane-bound enzymes were analyzed by using specific colorimetric methods. The modified levels of lipid profiles (total cholesterol, triglycerides, phospholipids, HDL, LDL and VLDL) in plasma, RBC-membrane and buccal mucosa tissues in DMBA-administered hamsters were normalized in DADS-treated animals. We observed an altered activity of erythrocyte membrane-bound enzyme (Na+ K+ -ATPase) and disturbed extracellular Na+ and intracellular K+ cation in the plasma tumor bearing animals, which suggests that the membrane permeability is affected during DMBA-induced oral carcinogenesis. The membrane stabilizing effects of DADS were confirmed by erythrocytes’ osmotic fragility and the levels of sodium, potassium and the activity of Na+ K+ -ATPase were restored in DMBA-treated animals after treatment with the DADS. Increased erythrocyte fragility and permeability in cancer animals are probably due to their altered lipids, osmotic fragility and membrane-bound enzymes. Oral administration of DADS to cancer animals prevented the alterations in red cell fragility and the activity of membrane-bound Na+ K+ -ATPase, which indicates the role of DADS in maintaining the structural integrity of erythrocytes during carcinogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Proper therapy of acute lung injury (ALI) is a major health challenge nowadays; it represents the most serious complication of COVID19 and the main cause of death. There are accumulating studies about the possible therapeutic effects of Allicin, the active ingredient of garlic, in many cases of respiratory diseases. Aim of the Work: In the current study, we showed for the first time a novel route of administration of Allicin which markedly improves its therapeutic effects in induced animal model of ALI. Material and Methods: Forty adult male albino rats were divided equally into control group, animal model group with cadmium inhalation for induction of ALI, recovery group left without treatment, and two treated group. Allicin was given as a treatment by two different routes, orally and through nebulizer inhalation in a dose of 200 mg/kg. Results: Cadmium chloride (cdcl2) inhalation induced nearly the same histopathological changes in the animal lung tissue in the form of inflammation, congestion and vasculitis as that reported in covid-19 autopathic biopsy. Allicin markedly improved these deleterious effects through nebulizer inhalation; it induced significant lowering in IL-6, iNOS and malonaldehyde with significant increase in the number CD163 positive anti-inflammatory macrophage. Moreover, it stimulated type II pneumocyte regeneration and this detected by TrkB proliferation marker. The level of antioxidant reduced glutathione showed significant increase with allicin inhalation. Lung histological architecture markedly improved and nearly back to normal after allicin inhalation. Conclusion: We concluded that allicin through nebulizer inhalation may be of great help in the management of critical cases with acute lung injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionRaw white garlic, a fundamental food in both culinary and medicinal practices globally, has gained attention for its potential health benefits. Despite widespread use, clinical research has predominantly focused on aged black garlic or garlic extracts, leaving raw white garlic consumption in humans underexplored. This mini review aims to summarize the evidence from clinical and observational studies on the health effects of raw white garlic consumption.MethodsA search in PubMed and Scopus databases was conducted to identify clinical and observational studies on raw white garlic consumption. Twelve clinical trials and 10 observational studies meeting the predefined inclusion criteria were selected for review.ResultsResults from clinical trials revealed diverse health effects of raw garlic consumption, including improved lipid profiles, blood pressure regulation, fibrinolytic activity, antioxidant status, and glucose metabolism. Observational studies reported the association of raw garlic consumption with improvements of important health outcomes, including cancer risk, cardiovascular disease, insulin homeostasis, and liver function. However, both clinical and observational studies were heterogenous in design, participant characteristics, durations, and outcome measures. Observational studies were limited to Asian populations.ConclusionWhile human studies indicate that raw garlic may exert various health benefits, larger randomized controlled trials with longer follow-up and cohort studies are needed to explore the full potential of raw garlic consumption in human health promotion. Our mini-review aims to summarize the currently available evidence on raw garlic consumption in humans.

Abstract In the tumor treatment by Fenton reaction‒based nanocatalytic medicines, the gradual consumption of Fe(II) ions greatly reduces the production of hydroxyl radicals, one of the most active reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to much deteriorated therapeutic efficacy. Meanwhile, the ROS consumption caused by the highly expressed reduced glutathione (GSH) in the tumor microenvironment further prevents tumor apoptosis. Therefore, using the highly expressed GSH in tumor tissue to promote the Fe(III) reduction to Fe(II) can not only weaken the resistance of tumor to ROS attack, but also generate enough Fe(II) to accelerate the Fenton reaction. In view of this, an allicin‒modified FeO1‐xOH nanocatalyst possessing varied valence states (II, III) has been designed and synthesized. The coexistence of Fe(II)/Fe(III) enables the simultaneous occurrence of Fenton reaction and GSH oxidation, and the Fe(III) reduction by GSH oxidation results in the promoted cyclic conversion of Fe ions in tumor and positive catalytic therapeutic effects. Moreover, allicin capable of regulating cell cycle and suppressing tumor growth is loaded on FeO1‐xOH nanosheets to activate immune response against tumors and inhibit tumor recurrence, finally achieving the tumor regression efficiently and sustainably. This therapeutic strategy provides an innovative approach to formulate efficient antitumor nanomedicine for enhanced tumor treatment.