Basis with RNA-Seq and WGCNA to explore the effect of Frankincense essential oil on dextran sodium sulfate-induced ulcerative colitis through MAPK/NF-κB signaling.

PURPOSE: Frankincense has been shown in studies to have healing benefits for people with ulcerative colitis (UC). However, its underlying mechanisms have not been fully investigated. The objective of this study was to explore the potential molecular mechanisms of Frankincense essential oil (FREO) in improving dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced UC from multiple perspectives. METHODS: The FREO components were analyzed by GC-MS, and the interactions between the key active components and the mechanism of FREO were determined based on RNA-seq, "quantity-effect" weighting coefficient network pharmacology, WGCNA and pharmacodynamic experiments. The protection of FREO against DSS-induced UC mice was assessed by behavioral and pathological changes through mice. The expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The expression of MAPK and NF-κB-related proteins by the Western Blotting and immunohistochemistry method. RESULTS: Treatment with FREO significantly improved the symptoms of weight loss, diarrhea, stool blood, and colon shortening in UC mice. Reduced intestinal mucosal damage and the degree of inflammatory cell infiltration in the colon. Decreased TNF-α and IL-6 levels in mice's serum and inhibited phosphorylation of ERK, p65 in MAPK and NF-κB signaling. CONCLUSION: FREO may decrease the inflammatory response to reduce the symptoms of UC by modulating the MAPK/ NF-κB pathway. This may be due to the synergistic interaction of the effective ingredient Hepten-2-yl tiglate, 6-methyl-5-, Isoneocembrene A and P-Cymene. This study provides a promising drug candidate and a new concept for the treatment of UC.

In Vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Frankincense Oils from Boswellia sacra Grown in Different Locations of the Dhofar Region (Oman).

Frankincense essential oils from Boswellia sacra have been commonly used to treat microbial infections from as early as the 11th century. The main feature of the plant is its gum resin, from which it is possible to obtain essential oils. In the present study, we focused on the comparative study of the oils extracted from the resins of three different Boswellia sacra cultivars (Najdi, Sahli and Houjri). From each of frankincense resin three successive essential oil samples (Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3) were obtained. Houjri gum resin gave the lowest percentage (5%) of total essential oil content but showed the maximum number of volatile components in all three grades. Najdi Grade 2 essential oil showed a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 52 mg/mL toward relevant pathogens Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and samples from Grade 2 of Sahily and Houjiri were particularly active against a dermatological strain Propionibacterium acnes, displaying MIC values of 0.264 and 0.66 mg/mL, respectively. Data obtained from in vitro studies showed that all essential oils had a significant antifungal effect against Candida albicans and Malassezia furfur, showing MIC values ranging from 54.56 to 0.246 mg/mL. This work aims to increase the number of substances available in the fight against pathogens and to combat the phenomenon of antibiotic resistance, encouraging the use of alternative resources, especially in non-clinical settings (farms, food processing, etc.).

The Effects of Frankincense Essential Oil on Stress in Rats.

Frankincense essential oil, obtained from Boswellia carteri, is a popular essential oil, which is widely used in many parts of the world. While some of its properties are known, its effects on stress and sleep have not been studied. The effects of frankincense essential oil and its major components, limonene and α-pinene, on plasma corticosterone and glutathione (GSH) levels, as well as on sleep and wakefulness behaviour, were studied in sleep-deprived rats. The substances were applied topically after dilution in jojoba oil (vehicle). As compared to vehicle, frankincense essential oil at a dilution of 1/1000 (1:103) significantly reduced corticosterone levels (p < 0.05). In contrast, its major constituents (α-pinene and limonene), elevated levels of this stress hormone. Frankincense, limonene and α-pinene, all led to significant reductions in plasma GSH levels. Although frankincense dose-dependently reduced plasma concentrations of antioxidant ions albeit to levels insufficient to neutralize oxidative stress; levels of products of oxidative metabolism metabolites were decreased by the frankincense. In sleep-deprived rats, frankincense 1:103 respectively increased and decreased the amount of wakefulness and non-rapid eye movement sleep. Frankincense essential oil can counter the effects of stress by effectively relieving sleep debt and maintaining antioxidant capacity without increasing oxidative stress, and, therefore, may be beneficial in the management of stress.