**Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Oregano (***Origanum vulgare***) Essentials Oils Show some**  *In Vitro* **Anti-Inflammatory Effects Based on Modifying Adipokine Secretion and Gene Expression on TNF--Induced Adipocytes**

A. Ocaña-Fuentes

*Departamento de Química- Física Aplicada, Sección de Ciencias de la Alimentación, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain* 

## **1. Introduction**

380 Inflammatory Diseases – Immunopathology, Clinical and Pharmacological Bases

Zimmerman, M.A., Selzman, C.H., Cothren, C., Sorensen, A.C., Raeburn, C.D., Harken, A.H.

Adipose tissue plays an important role in energy homeostasis and in innate immune system (Bastard et al, 2006, Desruisseaux et al, 2007). Obesity is characterized by excessive accumulation of abdominal fat, which is known to play an important role in development of chronic inflammation, atherosclerosis, increased risk in cardiovascular disorders and diabetes (Rajala and Sherer, 2003). Pro-inflammatory adipokines, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 are secreted by a variety of cell type, including adipocytes (Desruisseaux et al, 2007, Trayhurn and Wood, 2005). In obesity, these adipokines which are up-regulated in adipose tissue producing a chronic activation of the innate immune system (Bastard et al, 2006), exercise a local (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 ) and systemic (IL-1β and IL-6) effect.

During inflammation, the mature adipocytes of adipose tissue are responsible for increasing production of pro-inflammatory adipokines (Simons et al., 2005), including tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), IL-1β, IL-6 and leptin and decreasing the anti-inflammatory adipokines, IL-10 and adiponectin (Guilherme et al., 2008). That disregulation contributes to obesity and chronic inflammation (Ouchi et al., 2003).

In addition to inflammatory adipokines secretion, adipocytes are also responsible of leptin synthesis. Leptin is a hormone that plays an important role in the regulation of body mass index (BMI) through the effects on appetite and on energetic expenditure as it encourages catabolic pathways versus anabolic pathways through their effects on 5'-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in muscle and liver (Rajala and Sherer, 2003). Furthermore, leptin can modulate the proliferation and differentiation of lymphoid cells from immune system and can induce the inflammatory response (Desruisseaux et al, 2007). Also, leptin can lead protrombotic states by the stimulation of plaquetary aggregation at the same time that inhibits the coagulation and fibrinolisis showing a pro-atherosclerotic effect (Wu et al., 2006).

Adiponectin is a hormone exclusively synthesized in mature adipocytes. Adiponectin is down-regulated in obesity, diabetes type 2 and coronary diseases. It present antiinflammatory activity, inhibiting the synthesis of TNF-α in adipocytes and in macrophages

Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Oregano (*Origanum vulgare*) Essentials Oils Show

and oregano S2, corresponding to separator 1 and 2, respectively.

**2.3 Analysis of the supercritical extract by GC/MS** 

and by their linear retention index.

**2.4 Cell culture** 

adiponectin).

**2.5 Citotoxicity assay** 

some *In Vitro* Anti-Inflammatory Effects Based on Modifying Adipokine Secretion and Gene... 383

model SF2000) of 2 L capacity using pure supercritical CO2 at a pressure of 30 MPa and a temperature of 40 ºC. Extracts from oregano were fractionated using a two-cascade depressurized system consisted of two separators (separator 1 and 2). Fractionation conditions were as follows: separator 1 was kept at a constant pressure and temperature of 15 MPa and 40 ºC, respectively, whereas separator 2 was maintained at a pressure of 2 MPa, and a temperature of 40 ºC. Under these conditions two fractions were obtained, oregano S1

Characterization of the supercritical oregano fractions oregano S1 and oregano S2 was carried out by a GC-2010 (Shimadzu, Japan), equipped with a split/splitless injector, electronic pressure control, AOC-20i auto injector, GCMS-QP2010 Plus mass spectrometer detector, and a GCMS Solution software. The column used was a ZB-5 (Zebron) capillary column, 30 m x 0.32 mm I.D. and 0.25 µm phase thickness. Helium, 99.996% was used as a carrier gas at a flow of 1 mL/min. Oven temperature programming was 60 ºC isothermal for 4 min, increased to 64 ºC at 1 ºC/min, then increased to 106 ºC at 2.5 ºC/min. Oven temperature was then increased from 106 ºC to 130 ºC at 1 ºC/min, and then to 200 ºC at 5 ºC/min, and then to a final temperature of 250 ºC/min at 8 ºC/min which was kept constant for 10 min. Sample injections (1 μL) were performed in split mode (1:20). The inlet pressure of the carrier gas was 57.5 KPa. Injector temperature was of 250 ºC and MS ion source and interface temperatures were 230 and 280 ºC, respectively. The mass spectrometer was used in TIC mode, and samples were scanned from 40 to 500 amu. Compounds thymol, carvacrol and linalool were identified by comparison with standard mass spectra obtained in the same conditions and compared with the mass spectra from library Wiley 229. Remaining compounds were identified by comparison with the mass spectra from Wiley 229 library

Human preadipocytes (Lonza, USA) were incubated in Preadipocyte Basal Medium containing 10% FBS, 2 mM L-Glutamine, 100 units/ml penicilin and 100 µg/ml streptomycin at 37ºC, 5% CO2 in a humidified incubator up to 85-90% of confluence. Cells were induced to differentiate into adipocytes by incubation with Preadipocyte Differentiation Medium containing insulin, dexamethasone, indomethacin and 3-isobutyl-1 methylxanthine for 3 days. After this time, the cells adhering to the culture dish and the medium was replaced every 3 days for 15 days. 15 days later, cells are differentiated into adipocytes. Lipid droplets could be visible into the cells. Afterwards, the Adipocyte Differentiation Medium was removed and the cells were starved in DMEM/Ham's F-12 1:1 for 24 h prior to assay with the plant extracts. Cells were activated with TNF-α (10 ng/ml) for 6 h and then treated with the different extract for 24 h. The supernatant of the different cultures were collected and analyzed for secreted adipokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, leptin and

Extract toxicity was assessed using the mitochondrial-respiration-dependent 3-(4,5 dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium (MTT) reduction method. Preadipocytes cells were plated in 96 wells plates, differentiated and incubated with different concentrations of

(Wu et al., 2006) through the modulation of NF-kβ (Desruisseaux et al., 2007). Furthermore, anti-atherosclerotic effects of adiponectin has been described through his up-regulation in a mouse model of atherosclerosis where the formation of atherosclerotic plaques is reduced (Rajala and Sherer, 2003).

Macrophage infiltration has recently been postulated to be a primary stimulus for the inflammatory properties of adipose tissue. Monocyte chemoattractants, which are synthesized and secreted by adipocytes, are thought to mediated in macrophage infiltration and to intensify macrophage expression of TNF-α (Guilherme et al., 2008)).

Oregano is an aromatic plant of the mediterranean flora commonly used for medical purposes (Bukovska et al., 2007, Juhás et al., 2008). It shows antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, such as inhibiting *Helicobacter pillory* growth. (Chun et al., 2005). It has also been described as anti-inflammatory when used as treatment of colitis in mice (Bukovska et al., 2007). The biological activity of this plant depends on their composition. Oregano contains thymol and carvacrol, two components with antioxidant and antimicrobial activity (Mastelic et al., 2008). Carvacrol also has demonstrated an antiproliferative activity in tumor cells of HeLa (Mastelic et al., 2008). Thymol has also showed beneficial effects on the antioxidant status of the rat brain (Youdim and Deans, 2000). Our group has previously demonstrated the antioxidant activity of subcritical water extraction of nutraceuticals from oregano using in vitro assays (Rodríguez Meizoso et al., 2006).

It has been described that the treatment of colitic mice with essential oils of thyme and oregano decreases levels of proinflammatory cytoquines IL-1β, IL-6, GM-CSF and TNFα. But the mechanisms mediating suppressive effects of thyme and oregano oils on colitis are unclear. It has also been described an inhibitory effect of various plant extracts such as *Calendula* extracts on NF-kB activation (Bukovska et al., 2007).

Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) with CO2 is a high-pressure technology, considered an attractive method compared to conventional techniques such as steam distillation or Soxhlet extraction because it avoids solute contamination with solvent residues and the degradation of termolabile compounds (Almeida and ferreira 2007). That is why supercritical fluid extraction with CO2 is in increasing demand to produce high-quality essential oils from plant material with medicinal properties (Mukhopadhyay, 2000).

The aim of this study is to describe the anti-inflammatory effects of *Origanum vulgare* extracts placed in an in vitro model of inflammation and other chronic diseases related to the inflammatory process, using human mature adipocytes activate with TNF-α (Gonzales and Orlando, 2008).

## **2. Material and methods**

## **2.1 Reagents**

TNF-α was purchased from R&D Systems. Preadipocyte Basal Medium, Fetal Bovine Serum (FBS), L-Glutamine, Penicilin, Streptomycin, Preadipocyte Differentiation Medium, insulin, Dexamethasone, Indomethacin, 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine and DMEM/Ham's F-12 1:1 were purchase from Lonza, USA.

## **2.2 Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) of plant material**

Dried and cryogenic grinded leaves from oregano (*Origanum vulgare*) were subjected to supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) with CO2. The supercritical extractions were carried out in a pilot-plant-scale supercritical fluid extractor (Thar Technology, Pittsburgh, PA, USA, model SF2000) of 2 L capacity using pure supercritical CO2 at a pressure of 30 MPa and a temperature of 40 ºC. Extracts from oregano were fractionated using a two-cascade depressurized system consisted of two separators (separator 1 and 2). Fractionation conditions were as follows: separator 1 was kept at a constant pressure and temperature of 15 MPa and 40 ºC, respectively, whereas separator 2 was maintained at a pressure of 2 MPa, and a temperature of 40 ºC. Under these conditions two fractions were obtained, oregano S1 and oregano S2, corresponding to separator 1 and 2, respectively.

## **2.3 Analysis of the supercritical extract by GC/MS**

Characterization of the supercritical oregano fractions oregano S1 and oregano S2 was carried out by a GC-2010 (Shimadzu, Japan), equipped with a split/splitless injector, electronic pressure control, AOC-20i auto injector, GCMS-QP2010 Plus mass spectrometer detector, and a GCMS Solution software. The column used was a ZB-5 (Zebron) capillary column, 30 m x 0.32 mm I.D. and 0.25 µm phase thickness. Helium, 99.996% was used as a carrier gas at a flow of 1 mL/min. Oven temperature programming was 60 ºC isothermal for 4 min, increased to 64 ºC at 1 ºC/min, then increased to 106 ºC at 2.5 ºC/min. Oven temperature was then increased from 106 ºC to 130 ºC at 1 ºC/min, and then to 200 ºC at 5 ºC/min, and then to a final temperature of 250 ºC/min at 8 ºC/min which was kept constant for 10 min. Sample injections (1 μL) were performed in split mode (1:20). The inlet pressure of the carrier gas was 57.5 KPa. Injector temperature was of 250 ºC and MS ion source and interface temperatures were 230 and 280 ºC, respectively. The mass spectrometer was used in TIC mode, and samples were scanned from 40 to 500 amu. Compounds thymol, carvacrol and linalool were identified by comparison with standard mass spectra obtained in the same conditions and compared with the mass spectra from library Wiley 229. Remaining compounds were identified by comparison with the mass spectra from Wiley 229 library and by their linear retention index.

## **2.4 Cell culture**

382 Inflammatory Diseases – Immunopathology, Clinical and Pharmacological Bases

(Wu et al., 2006) through the modulation of NF-kβ (Desruisseaux et al., 2007). Furthermore, anti-atherosclerotic effects of adiponectin has been described through his up-regulation in a mouse model of atherosclerosis where the formation of atherosclerotic plaques is reduced

Macrophage infiltration has recently been postulated to be a primary stimulus for the inflammatory properties of adipose tissue. Monocyte chemoattractants, which are synthesized and secreted by adipocytes, are thought to mediated in macrophage infiltration

Oregano is an aromatic plant of the mediterranean flora commonly used for medical purposes (Bukovska et al., 2007, Juhás et al., 2008). It shows antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, such as inhibiting *Helicobacter pillory* growth. (Chun et al., 2005). It has also been described as anti-inflammatory when used as treatment of colitis in mice (Bukovska et al., 2007). The biological activity of this plant depends on their composition. Oregano contains thymol and carvacrol, two components with antioxidant and antimicrobial activity (Mastelic et al., 2008). Carvacrol also has demonstrated an antiproliferative activity in tumor cells of HeLa (Mastelic et al., 2008). Thymol has also showed beneficial effects on the antioxidant status of the rat brain (Youdim and Deans, 2000). Our group has previously demonstrated the antioxidant activity of subcritical water extraction of nutraceuticals from oregano using

It has been described that the treatment of colitic mice with essential oils of thyme and oregano decreases levels of proinflammatory cytoquines IL-1β, IL-6, GM-CSF and TNFα. But the mechanisms mediating suppressive effects of thyme and oregano oils on colitis are unclear. It has also been described an inhibitory effect of various plant extracts such as

Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) with CO2 is a high-pressure technology, considered an attractive method compared to conventional techniques such as steam distillation or Soxhlet extraction because it avoids solute contamination with solvent residues and the degradation of termolabile compounds (Almeida and ferreira 2007). That is why supercritical fluid extraction with CO2 is in increasing demand to produce high-quality essential oils from

The aim of this study is to describe the anti-inflammatory effects of *Origanum vulgare* extracts placed in an in vitro model of inflammation and other chronic diseases related to the inflammatory process, using human mature adipocytes activate with TNF-α (Gonzales

TNF-α was purchased from R&D Systems. Preadipocyte Basal Medium, Fetal Bovine Serum (FBS), L-Glutamine, Penicilin, Streptomycin, Preadipocyte Differentiation Medium, insulin, Dexamethasone, Indomethacin, 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine and DMEM/Ham's F-12 1:1

Dried and cryogenic grinded leaves from oregano (*Origanum vulgare*) were subjected to supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) with CO2. The supercritical extractions were carried out in a pilot-plant-scale supercritical fluid extractor (Thar Technology, Pittsburgh, PA, USA,

and to intensify macrophage expression of TNF-α (Guilherme et al., 2008)).

(Rajala and Sherer, 2003).

and Orlando, 2008).

**2.1 Reagents** 

**2. Material and methods** 

were purchase from Lonza, USA.

in vitro assays (Rodríguez Meizoso et al., 2006).

*Calendula* extracts on NF-kB activation (Bukovska et al., 2007).

plant material with medicinal properties (Mukhopadhyay, 2000).

**2.2 Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) of plant material** 

Human preadipocytes (Lonza, USA) were incubated in Preadipocyte Basal Medium containing 10% FBS, 2 mM L-Glutamine, 100 units/ml penicilin and 100 µg/ml streptomycin at 37ºC, 5% CO2 in a humidified incubator up to 85-90% of confluence. Cells were induced to differentiate into adipocytes by incubation with Preadipocyte Differentiation Medium containing insulin, dexamethasone, indomethacin and 3-isobutyl-1 methylxanthine for 3 days. After this time, the cells adhering to the culture dish and the medium was replaced every 3 days for 15 days. 15 days later, cells are differentiated into adipocytes. Lipid droplets could be visible into the cells. Afterwards, the Adipocyte Differentiation Medium was removed and the cells were starved in DMEM/Ham's F-12 1:1 for 24 h prior to assay with the plant extracts. Cells were activated with TNF-α (10 ng/ml) for 6 h and then treated with the different extract for 24 h. The supernatant of the different cultures were collected and analyzed for secreted adipokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, leptin and adiponectin).

#### **2.5 Citotoxicity assay**

Extract toxicity was assessed using the mitochondrial-respiration-dependent 3-(4,5 dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium (MTT) reduction method. Preadipocytes cells were plated in 96 wells plates, differentiated and incubated with different concentrations of

Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Oregano (*Origanum vulgare*) Essentials Oils Show

**2.10 Gene expression quantification** 

**2.11 Statistical analysis** 

**3. Results** 

0.05 were considered significant.

**3.1 Composition of the supercritical oregano fractions** 

**Compound Retention** 

some *In Vitro* Anti-Inflammatory Effects Based on Modifying Adipokine Secretion and Gene... 385

IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and 18sRNA gene expression were quantified using real-time PCR. 10 ng/µL of total RNA isolated from mature adipocytes cells was used as template for cDNA synthesis using the High Capacity Archive Kit from Applied Biosystems, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Real-time PCR was performed using Taqman Probes (Applied Biosystems) following the manufacturer's recommendations. The Taqman probes used were: Hs99999029\_m1 for IL-1β, Hs00174131\_m1 for IL-6, Hs999999035\_m1 for IL-10, Hs00174877\_m1 for leptin, Hs00605917\_m1 for adiponectin, and Hs99999901\_s1 for 18S rRNA. Gene expression levels were then normalized to 18S rRNA expression and compared to it.

All data were expressed as the mean ± SEM. For single variable comparisons, Student's ttest was used. For multiple variable comparisons, data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Dunnett's test using SigmaStat statistical software (Windows Version 5.0 Systat Software Inc., Point Richmond, CA, USA). P values lower than

Two fractions of the *Origanum vulgare* leaves extract, oregano S1 and oregano S2, were isolated using supercritical fluid extraction with CO2 and their composition was determined

Sabinene 10.20 971,00 n.d. 1.04 Alpha-terpinene 12.52 1015,00 n.d. 0.74 P-cymene 12.94 1023,00 7.70 1.22 Limonene 13.19 1027,00 n.d. 0.47 Gamma-terpinene 14.93 1057,00 2.08 4.04 Sabinene hydrate <cis> 15.39 1065,00 2.46 3.75 Sabinene hydrate <trans> 17.17 1096,00 45.81 46.05 Linalool 17.35 1100,00 2.39 2.73 4-terpineol 21.74 1175,00 2.30 5.44 Alpha-terpineol 22.52 1189,00 1.87 2.34 N-I 25.09 1231,00 n.d. 0.70 Thymyl methyl ether 25.61 1240,00 1.03 2.11 Sabinene hydrate acetate <trans> 26.17 1250,00 1.45 0.91 Linalyl acetate 26.40 1254,00 1.55 1.55 Thymol 28.65 1291,00 24.00 19.99 Carvacrol 29.23 1300,00 8.07 7.07 E-caryophyllene 37.80 1412,00 n.d. 1.68 Table 1. Composition of the supercritical extracts of oregano (*Origanum vulgare L*.) obtained in separators 1 and 2. Contribution of each compound to the total chromatographic area. N-

I: non-identified compound. R.I.: linear retention index. n.d. non-detected.

**time (min) R.I. % Area** 

**(Separator 1)**

**% Area (Separator 2)** 

the oregano extract for 24 h. at 37 ºC in 5% CO2. After treatment, the cells were washed with PBS and incubated with MTT 1 mg/ml in PBS for 2 hours at 37 ºC in 5% CO2. Afterwards, formazan crystals produced from MTT by the mitochondrial hydrolase, only activate in viable cells, were solubilized in lysis buffer (10 % SDS in 50% dimetilformamida pH=7) and the absorbance of each well was then read at 540 nm using a microplate reader (Sunrise Remote, Tecan). The optical density of formazan formed in control cells (without treatment with extract) was taken as 100% viability.

## **2.6 Bioactivity assay**

Oregano extract was dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO; Sigma-Aldrich) to stock concentration of 10 mg/ml determined as the maximum non-toxic dose to cells in the viability assays. Differenctiated adipocytes cells were placed and differentiated in 24 well plates. After differentiation, the cells were washed with PBS and incubated with the extract diluted in FBS free medium, for 24 at 37 ºC in 5% CO2. Afterwards, the supernatant was frozen and RNA from cells was isolated. Aliquots were analyzed to determine secreted adipokines, leptin and adiponectin.

## **2.7 Total protein quantification**

The Bradford method was used to determine the total protein content in the supernatant. 5 µl of supernatant was incubated with 250 µl of Bradford reagent (Sigma) for 30 min in the dark at room temperature. The absorbance at 595 was measured and the protein concentration was determined using a standard curve.

## **2.8 Enzyme-linked Immuno Sorbent Assay for quantification of cytokines**

The supernatant of the different treatments culture was collected from each samples. The concentrations of IL-6, IL-10, IL-1β were assayed using a ELISA kit from BD Biosciences, and leptin, adiponectin were assayed using a ELISA kits from R&D Systems. The absorbance read at 450 nm with λ correction at 570 nm using a microplate reader (Sunrise Remote, Tecan Austria GmbH, Grödig, Austria). Each concentration was determined from the standard curve and expressed as % of TNF- α activated controls.

#### **2.9 Total RNA isolation**

Total RNA from adipocytes was isolated using the Trizol® reagent from Invitrogen. 9.000 cells were homogenized in 200 µL of Trizol® reagent and, if necessary, stored at -80 ºC. Following homogenization, samples were left at room temperature for 5 minutes. Afterwards, 40 µL of chloroform was added and the tubes were vigorously shaken for 15 seconds and left to rest at room temperature for 5 minutes. Tubes were then centrifuged at 12000g, 4º C for 15 minutes. The aqueous (upper and colorless) phase was transferred to a new tube. 100 µL of isopropyl alcohol was added to the aqueous phase; the tube was then gently mixed and incubated at room temperature for 10 minutes. After incubation, samples were centrifuged at 12000g, 4 ºC for 10 minutes. A gel-like pellet was formed and the isopropyl alcohol removed. The pellet was washed with 200 mL of 75 % Ethanol in DEPC treated H2O, and centrifuged at 7600, 4 ºC for 5 min. The ethanol was then removed and the pellet left to dry until colorless. Total RNA was then dissolved in 15 µL of DEPC H2O, incubated at 55 ºC for 10 minutes and stored at -80 ºC for future use.

#### **2.10 Gene expression quantification**

IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and 18sRNA gene expression were quantified using real-time PCR. 10 ng/µL of total RNA isolated from mature adipocytes cells was used as template for cDNA synthesis using the High Capacity Archive Kit from Applied Biosystems, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Real-time PCR was performed using Taqman Probes (Applied Biosystems) following the manufacturer's recommendations. The Taqman probes used were: Hs99999029\_m1 for IL-1β, Hs00174131\_m1 for IL-6, Hs999999035\_m1 for IL-10, Hs00174877\_m1 for leptin, Hs00605917\_m1 for adiponectin, and Hs99999901\_s1 for 18S rRNA. Gene expression levels were then normalized to 18S rRNA expression and compared to it.

## **2.11 Statistical analysis**

All data were expressed as the mean ± SEM. For single variable comparisons, Student's ttest was used. For multiple variable comparisons, data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Dunnett's test using SigmaStat statistical software (Windows Version 5.0 Systat Software Inc., Point Richmond, CA, USA). P values lower than 0.05 were considered significant.

## **3. Results**

384 Inflammatory Diseases – Immunopathology, Clinical and Pharmacological Bases

the oregano extract for 24 h. at 37 ºC in 5% CO2. After treatment, the cells were washed with PBS and incubated with MTT 1 mg/ml in PBS for 2 hours at 37 ºC in 5% CO2. Afterwards, formazan crystals produced from MTT by the mitochondrial hydrolase, only activate in viable cells, were solubilized in lysis buffer (10 % SDS in 50% dimetilformamida pH=7) and the absorbance of each well was then read at 540 nm using a microplate reader (Sunrise Remote, Tecan). The optical density of formazan formed in control cells (without treatment

Oregano extract was dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO; Sigma-Aldrich) to stock concentration of 10 mg/ml determined as the maximum non-toxic dose to cells in the viability assays. Differenctiated adipocytes cells were placed and differentiated in 24 well plates. After differentiation, the cells were washed with PBS and incubated with the extract diluted in FBS free medium, for 24 at 37 ºC in 5% CO2. Afterwards, the supernatant was frozen and RNA from cells was isolated. Aliquots were analyzed to determine secreted

The Bradford method was used to determine the total protein content in the supernatant. 5 µl of supernatant was incubated with 250 µl of Bradford reagent (Sigma) for 30 min in the dark at room temperature. The absorbance at 595 was measured and the protein

The supernatant of the different treatments culture was collected from each samples. The concentrations of IL-6, IL-10, IL-1β were assayed using a ELISA kit from BD Biosciences, and leptin, adiponectin were assayed using a ELISA kits from R&D Systems. The absorbance read at 450 nm with λ correction at 570 nm using a microplate reader (Sunrise Remote, Tecan Austria GmbH, Grödig, Austria). Each concentration was determined from the

Total RNA from adipocytes was isolated using the Trizol® reagent from Invitrogen. 9.000 cells were homogenized in 200 µL of Trizol® reagent and, if necessary, stored at -80 ºC. Following homogenization, samples were left at room temperature for 5 minutes. Afterwards, 40 µL of chloroform was added and the tubes were vigorously shaken for 15 seconds and left to rest at room temperature for 5 minutes. Tubes were then centrifuged at 12000g, 4º C for 15 minutes. The aqueous (upper and colorless) phase was transferred to a new tube. 100 µL of isopropyl alcohol was added to the aqueous phase; the tube was then gently mixed and incubated at room temperature for 10 minutes. After incubation, samples were centrifuged at 12000g, 4 ºC for 10 minutes. A gel-like pellet was formed and the isopropyl alcohol removed. The pellet was washed with 200 mL of 75 % Ethanol in DEPC treated H2O, and centrifuged at 7600, 4 ºC for 5 min. The ethanol was then removed and the pellet left to dry until colorless. Total RNA was then dissolved in 15 µL of DEPC H2O,

**2.8 Enzyme-linked Immuno Sorbent Assay for quantification of cytokines** 

with extract) was taken as 100% viability.

adipokines, leptin and adiponectin.

**2.7 Total protein quantification** 

**2.9 Total RNA isolation** 

concentration was determined using a standard curve.

standard curve and expressed as % of TNF- α activated controls.

incubated at 55 ºC for 10 minutes and stored at -80 ºC for future use.

**2.6 Bioactivity assay** 

## **3.1 Composition of the supercritical oregano fractions**

Two fractions of the *Origanum vulgare* leaves extract, oregano S1 and oregano S2, were isolated using supercritical fluid extraction with CO2 and their composition was determined


Table 1. Composition of the supercritical extracts of oregano (*Origanum vulgare L*.) obtained in separators 1 and 2. Contribution of each compound to the total chromatographic area. N-I: non-identified compound. R.I.: linear retention index. n.d. non-detected.

Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Oregano (*Origanum vulgare*) Essentials Oils Show

**3.3 Oregano hardly shows cytotoxicity in adipocytes** 

 **0 5 10 15 25 20 30**

**g/ml**

significant and \*\*\* P values less than 0.001 extremely significant.

**0**

**gene expressions** 

**Figure 4A**

**IL-1beta (% vs control+TNF- )**

**20**

**40**

**60**

**Cell viability %**

**80**

**100**

**120**

some *In Vitro* Anti-Inflammatory Effects Based on Modifying Adipokine Secretion and Gene... 387

Prior to examine the effects of oregano on adipokine secretion, we wished to confirm that the extracts were not toxic for this cell. So we incubated adipocytes for several extract concentrations during 24 hours. Figure 3 shows the effects of the oregano extracts in human subcutaneous adipocytes. In both extracts (oregano S1 and oregano S2) there were no significant decreases in cell viability using concentrations lower or equal to 30 μg/ml.

**Oregano toxicity in Mature Adipocyte cells**

Fig. 3. Effects of oregano on mature adipocytes viability. Cells were treated with increasing concentrations of oregano S1 and S2 (from 0 to 30 µg/ml), for 24h. Cell viability was determined by the MTT assay. Values represent the mean ± SEM of three independent experiments and statistic signification is represented by \*\* P values less than 0.01 very

**3.4 Effect of oregano extracts on the TNF-α-induced secretion of adipokines and their** 

To investigate whether oregano could have a play in the TNF- α-induced secretion of adipokines by adipocytes, human adipocytes were pre-treated with TNF- α in a concentration

\*\*

\*\* \*\*

**CONTROL Oregano S1**

**TNF- - + - +- +**

**24 h effect of oregano extracts on IL-1beta levels**

\*\*\*

**Oregano S1 Oregano S2**

\*\*

**Oregano S2**

**g/ml**

 **0 5 10 15 25 20 30**

by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS) (see Table 1). For both fractions, the main compounds present were sabinene hydrate <trans>, thymol and carvacrol. Chemical structures of these compounds are shown in figure 1.

Fig. 1. Chemical structures of the main compounds present in the supercritical extracts of oregano (Origanum vulgare.). a) Sabinene hydrate <trans>, b) thymol and c) carvacrol.

#### **3.2 TNF-α treatment activates protein expression in differentiated adipocytes**

To examine the effects of TNF-α on secretion of adipokines, fully differentiated human adipocytes were treated for different times (4, 6 y 8 hours) with several concentration of recombinant human TNF-α (Anh et al., 2007). Proteins secreted into the medium were measured by the Bradford assay. These TNF-α treated cells showed an increase in total protein secreted (see Figure 2). Increase in protein secretion was used as indicator for adipocyte activation. The secretion of proteins increased from 4 hours to 8 hours, and the levels were stable for 6 hours at concentration of 10 ng/ml.

**Levels of total protein**

Fig. 2. Levels of total protein in TNF- α induced secretion of human adipocytes. Results are shown as the means ± SEM of triplicate determinations. Statistic Dunnett's multiple comparison test VS Ctrl - TNF- α signification is represented by \* P values less than 0.05 significant \*\* P values less than 0.01 very significant and \*\*\* P values less than 0.001 extremely significant.

## **3.3 Oregano hardly shows cytotoxicity in adipocytes**

386 Inflammatory Diseases – Immunopathology, Clinical and Pharmacological Bases

by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS) (see Table 1). For both fractions, the main compounds present were sabinene hydrate <trans>, thymol and carvacrol. Chemical

Fig. 1. Chemical structures of the main compounds present in the supercritical extracts of oregano (Origanum vulgare.). a) Sabinene hydrate <trans>, b) thymol and c) carvacrol.

To examine the effects of TNF-α on secretion of adipokines, fully differentiated human adipocytes were treated for different times (4, 6 y 8 hours) with several concentration of recombinant human TNF-α (Anh et al., 2007). Proteins secreted into the medium were measured by the Bradford assay. These TNF-α treated cells showed an increase in total protein secreted (see Figure 2). Increase in protein secretion was used as indicator for adipocyte activation. The secretion of proteins increased from 4 hours to 8 hours, and the

**Levels of total protein**

**TNF-alpha ng/ml 0 10 20 10 20 10 20**

**Hours 0 4 6 4 6 8 8**

Fig. 2. Levels of total protein in TNF- α induced secretion of human adipocytes. Results are shown as the means ± SEM of triplicate determinations. Statistic Dunnett's multiple comparison test VS Ctrl - TNF- α signification is represented by \* P values less than 0.05 significant \*\* P values less than 0.01 very significant and \*\*\* P values less than 0.001

\* \* \*\* **\***

**3.2 TNF-α treatment activates protein expression in differentiated adipocytes** 

levels were stable for 6 hours at concentration of 10 ng/ml.

**0 10**

**100**

**120**

**%**

extremely significant.

**140**

structures of these compounds are shown in figure 1.

Prior to examine the effects of oregano on adipokine secretion, we wished to confirm that the extracts were not toxic for this cell. So we incubated adipocytes for several extract concentrations during 24 hours. Figure 3 shows the effects of the oregano extracts in human subcutaneous adipocytes. In both extracts (oregano S1 and oregano S2) there were no significant decreases in cell viability using concentrations lower or equal to 30 μg/ml.

Fig. 3. Effects of oregano on mature adipocytes viability. Cells were treated with increasing concentrations of oregano S1 and S2 (from 0 to 30 µg/ml), for 24h. Cell viability was determined by the MTT assay. Values represent the mean ± SEM of three independent experiments and statistic signification is represented by \*\* P values less than 0.01 very significant and \*\*\* P values less than 0.001 extremely significant.

#### **3.4 Effect of oregano extracts on the TNF-α-induced secretion of adipokines and their gene expressions**

To investigate whether oregano could have a play in the TNF- α-induced secretion of adipokines by adipocytes, human adipocytes were pre-treated with TNF- α in a concentration

Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Oregano (*Origanum vulgare*) Essentials Oils Show

observed (p< 0.01 for oregano S1 and p< 0.001 for oregano S2).

\*\*\* \*\*\*

**CONTROL Oregano S1**

**TNF-** - + - + +

\*\*

**TNF-** - + - + +

**CONTROL Oregano S1**

**24 h effect of oregano on mRNA levels of IL 6**

**0.0**

**Figure 5A**

**0.0**

**Figure 5B**

**0.5**

\*\*\*

**1.0**

**1.5**

**RQ**

**2.0**

**2.5**

**0.5**

**1.0**

**1.5**

**RQ**

**2.0**

**2.5**

(the highest concentration of oregano which causes no cytotoxicity at 24 hours).

some *In Vitro* Anti-Inflammatory Effects Based on Modifying Adipokine Secretion and Gene... 389

of 10 ng/ml for 6 hours. After that time, the induced adipocytes were treated with 30 µg/ml

Incubation period of 24 hours TNF-α activated cells showed an increased released of IL-1β and IL-6 but a decreased in IL-10 respect to non-activated controls (see Figures 4A-C). The results show a moderate decrease in pro-inflammatory adipokine synthesis (IL-1β, IL-6) and an increase in the production of anti-inflammatory adipokine (IL-10). Oregano extract S1 and S2 decrease secretion levels of IL-1 β in activated cells restoring or even below to the non-activated control level. Similar behavior presented oregano S1 and S2 on the IL-6 secretion levels although decreases were less singnificant. On the other hand, IL-10 levels were not affected when non activated cells were incubated with any of the fraction extracts but in the treatments in activated cells, a very significant increase of the secretion was

**24 h effect of oregano on mRNA levels of IL 1**

\*

\*\*\*



**Oregano S2**

**Oregano S2**

\*\*\*

 \*\*\*

**24 h effect of oregano extracts on**

**Figure 4B**

Fig. 4. Effects of oregano treatment on TNF-α induced adipokine secretion by human adipocytes. The secreted interleukin-1β (4A), interleukin-6 (4B) and interleukin-10 (4C) into the medium were measured. Results are shown as the means ± SEM of triplicate determinations. Statistic Dunnett's multiple comparison test VS Ctrl +TNF-α signification is represented by \* P values less than 0.05 significant \*\* P values less than 0.01 very significant and \*\*\* P values less than 0.001 extremely significant. Statistic "Bonferroni multiple comparison test VS Ctrl -TNF-α signification is represented by ▪P values less than 0.05 significant, ▪▪P values less than 0.01 very significant and ▪▪▪P values less than 0.001 extremely significant.

of 10 ng/ml for 6 hours. After that time, the induced adipocytes were treated with 30 µg/ml (the highest concentration of oregano which causes no cytotoxicity at 24 hours).

Incubation period of 24 hours TNF-α activated cells showed an increased released of IL-1β and IL-6 but a decreased in IL-10 respect to non-activated controls (see Figures 4A-C).

The results show a moderate decrease in pro-inflammatory adipokine synthesis (IL-1β, IL-6) and an increase in the production of anti-inflammatory adipokine (IL-10). Oregano extract S1 and S2 decrease secretion levels of IL-1 β in activated cells restoring or even below to the non-activated control level. Similar behavior presented oregano S1 and S2 on the IL-6 secretion levels although decreases were less singnificant. On the other hand, IL-10 levels were not affected when non activated cells were incubated with any of the fraction extracts but in the treatments in activated cells, a very significant increase of the secretion was observed (p< 0.01 for oregano S1 and p< 0.001 for oregano S2).

388 Inflammatory Diseases – Immunopathology, Clinical and Pharmacological Bases

**24 h effect of oregano extracts on IL-6 levels**

\*\*

\*\*\*

**Oregano S2**

**Oregano S2**

\*\*\*

**-**

\*


**IL-10 levels**

\*\*

\*\*\*

**CONTROL Oregano S1**

**CONTROL Oregano S1**

significant and ▪▪▪P values less than 0.001 extremely significant.

**TNF- -+ - + +**

adipocytes. The secreted interleukin-1β (4A), interleukin-6 (4B) and interleukin-10 (4C) into the medium were measured. Results are shown as the means ± SEM of triplicate determinations. Statistic Dunnett's multiple comparison test VS Ctrl +TNF-α signification is represented by \* P values less than 0.05 significant \*\* P values less than 0.01 very significant and \*\*\* P values less than 0.001 extremely significant. Statistic "Bonferroni multiple comparison test VS Ctrl -TNF-α signification is represented by ▪P values less than 0.05 significant, ▪▪P values less than 0.01 very

Fig. 4. Effects of oregano treatment on TNF-α induced adipokine secretion by human

**TNF- -+-+ +**

**24 h effect of oregano extracts on**

**IL-6 (% vs control + TNF- )**

\*\*\*

**Figure 4B**

**0**

**Figure 4C**

**200**

**400**

**IL-10 (% vs control+TNF- )**

**600**

**800**

Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Oregano (*Origanum vulgare*) Essentials Oils Show

**CONTROL Oregano S1**

**CONTROL Oregano S1**

0.01 very significant and ▪▪▪P values less than 0.001 extremely significant.

**TNF- -+-+- +**

Fig. 6. Effects of oregano treatment on TNF-α induced adipokine secretion by human adipocytes. The secreted adipokines leptin (5A) and adiponectin (5B) into the medium were measured. Results are shown as the means ± SEM of triplicate determinations. Statistic Dunnett's multiple comparison test VS Ctrl +TNF-α signification is represented by \* P values less than 0.05 significant \*\* P values less than 0.01 very significant and \*\*\* P values less than 0.001 extremely significant. Statistic "Bonferroni multiple comparison test VS Ctrl - TNF-α signification is represented by ▪P values less than 0.05 significant, ▪▪P values less than

\*\*\* \*\*\*

**TNF- -+-+- +**

**24 h effect of oregano extracts on adiponectin levels**

\*\*\*

\*\* \*\*

\*\*\* \*\*

**Oregano S2**

**Oregano S2**

\*\*\*

\*\*\*

\*\*\*

\*\*

**0**

**0**

**Figure 6B**

**200**

\*\*\*

**400**

**Adiponectin (% vs control - TNF- )**

**600**

**Figure 6A**

**50**

**100**

**Leptin (% vs control - TNF- )**

**150**

some *In Vitro* Anti-Inflammatory Effects Based on Modifying Adipokine Secretion and Gene... 391

**24 h effect of oregano extracts on leptin levels**

## **24 h effect of oregano on mRNA levels of IL-10**

## **Figure 5C**

Fig. 5. Effect of oregano on the relative 24 h transcription gene quantification (RQ) of IL-1β (6A) and IL-6 (6B) on human adipocytes. Cells were differentiated and treated as described in Material and Methods section. Data represent means ± SEM calculated from six independent experiments with 3 replicates for each treatment. Statistic Dunnett's multiple comparison test VS Ctrl +oxLDL signification is represented by: \* P values less than 0.05 (significant), \*\* P values less than 0.01 (very significant), and \*\*\* P values less than 0.001 (extremely significant). Statistic Bonferroni multiple comparison test VS Ctrl - TNF-α signification is represented by: ♦♦ P values less than 0.01 (very significant), and ♦♦♦ P values less than 0.001 (extremely significant).

Unfortunately, IL-1β gene expression in activated cells treated with any of oregano fractions was not reverted to activated control cells. In the case of non-activated cells, treatments with either oregano fraction do not modify the transcription of IL-1β. Regarding IL-6 gene transcription was also increased in activated cells treated for 24h and a slightly modify were observed in non activated cells when treated with oregano S1 or S2. IL-10 transcription gene was enhanced at any treatment, especially when cells were activated. (Figures 5A-C)

#### **3.5 Effect of oregano on the TNF-α-induced secretion of hormones and their gene expressions**

The results show a moderate decrease in pro-inflammatory leptin and an increase in the production of adiponectin anti-inflammatory secreted hormone level. Treatment with oregano extracts inhibited TNF-α-induced increasing on the secretion of leptin and decreasing of adiponectin (Figures 6A-B).

Leptin levels, secreted by control TNF- α-induced adipocytes increased, compared to the non- activated control. Treatment with any of the SFE extracts essential oils, restored the levels to the presented in non-activated control. In not activated cells, oregano extract do not produced any significant decrease on leptin levels compared with the non-activated control (Figure 6A).

Both oregano extracts, S1 and S2, increased very significantly the adiponectin secreted levels (p<0,001) in activated adipocytes. In non-activated, changes on the adiponectin secretion levels had not been observed when treated with oregano S1 or S2 (see Figure 6B).

**0**

**200**

390 Inflammatory Diseases – Immunopathology, Clinical and Pharmacological Bases

**CONTROL Oregano S1**

**TNF-** - + - + +

Fig. 5. Effect of oregano on the relative 24 h transcription gene quantification (RQ) of IL-1β (6A) and IL-6 (6B) on human adipocytes. Cells were differentiated and treated as described

independent experiments with 3 replicates for each treatment. Statistic Dunnett's multiple comparison test VS Ctrl +oxLDL signification is represented by: \* P values less than 0.05 (significant), \*\* P values less than 0.01 (very significant), and \*\*\* P values less than 0.001 (extremely significant). Statistic Bonferroni multiple comparison test VS Ctrl - TNF-α

signification is represented by: ♦♦ P values less than 0.01 (very significant), and ♦♦♦ P values

Unfortunately, IL-1β gene expression in activated cells treated with any of oregano fractions was not reverted to activated control cells. In the case of non-activated cells, treatments with either oregano fraction do not modify the transcription of IL-1β. Regarding IL-6 gene transcription was also increased in activated cells treated for 24h and a slightly modify were observed in non activated cells when treated with oregano S1 or S2. IL-10 transcription gene

was enhanced at any treatment, especially when cells were activated. (Figures 5A-C)

**3.5 Effect of oregano on the TNF-α-induced secretion of hormones and their gene** 

The results show a moderate decrease in pro-inflammatory leptin and an increase in the production of adiponectin anti-inflammatory secreted hormone level. Treatment with oregano extracts inhibited TNF-α-induced increasing on the secretion of leptin and

Leptin levels, secreted by control TNF- α-induced adipocytes increased, compared to the non- activated control. Treatment with any of the SFE extracts essential oils, restored the levels to the presented in non-activated control. In not activated cells, oregano extract do not produced any significant decrease on leptin levels compared with the non-activated control

Both oregano extracts, S1 and S2, increased very significantly the adiponectin secreted levels (p<0,001) in activated adipocytes. In non-activated, changes on the adiponectin secretion

levels had not been observed when treated with oregano S1 or S2 (see Figure 6B).

in Material and Methods section. Data represent means ± SEM calculated from six

\*\*\*

**0**

**Figure 5C**

**expressions** 

(Figure 6A).

**5**

\*\*\*

less than 0.001 (extremely significant).

decreasing of adiponectin (Figures 6A-B).

**10**

**RQ**

**15**

**24 h effect of oregano on mRNA levels of IL-10**

**Oregano S2**

\*\*\* 


\*\*\*

\*\*\*

Fig. 6. Effects of oregano treatment on TNF-α induced adipokine secretion by human adipocytes. The secreted adipokines leptin (5A) and adiponectin (5B) into the medium were measured. Results are shown as the means ± SEM of triplicate determinations. Statistic Dunnett's multiple comparison test VS Ctrl +TNF-α signification is represented by \* P values less than 0.05 significant \*\* P values less than 0.01 very significant and \*\*\* P values less than 0.001 extremely significant. Statistic "Bonferroni multiple comparison test VS Ctrl - TNF-α signification is represented by ▪P values less than 0.05 significant, ▪▪P values less than 0.01 very significant and ▪▪▪P values less than 0.001 extremely significant.

**TNF- -+-+- +**

\*\* \*\*

**Oregano S2**

**CONTROL Oregano S1**

Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Oregano (*Origanum vulgare*) Essentials Oils Show

chronic inflammation state (Guilherme et al., 2008).

concerning to their anti-inflammatory effects (Khanna et al., 2007).

oregano could exert effects on the adipocytes (Bukovska et al., 2007).

TNF-α-induced decreases of IL-10 and adiponectin secretion.

**4. Discussion** 

(Yanishlieva et al., 1999).

some *In Vitro* Anti-Inflammatory Effects Based on Modifying Adipokine Secretion and Gene... 393

It is described that during inflammation, the mature adipocytes are responsible for increasing production of pro-inflammatory adipokines (Ouchi et al., 2001). Infiltration of macrophages in the adipose tissue, and the consequent secretion of TNF-alpha by those, is a primary stimulus for the inflammatory properties of adipose tissue and intensify macrophage expression of TNF- α. This produces inflammation that if it persists provoke a

Several natural compounds are known for their beneficial properties to some diseases or their derived complications and particularly concerning to their anti-inflammatory effects. Some of these effects include inhibition of the TNF-α signaling in adipocytes (Gonzales and orlando, 2008). Our oregano extracts as other natural compounds described, could have beneficial properties to some diseases or their derived complications and particularly

In the present study, we have found that SFE oregano essentials oils inhibit TNF-α-induced increases in the secretion of pro-inflammatory adipokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and leptin) and the

Our data suggest that oregano extract recovers the TNF-α-induced increases in inflammatory adipokines. A study demonstrated that resveratrol produced similar changes in adipokine secretion (Anh et al., 2007). In a study about the treatment of colitis in mouse with thyme and oregano essential oils reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory citokines were observed when the essential oils were administrated. In addition, the mice treated with these oils recover their corporal weight after the treatment, which could suggest that the

Main compounds present in supercritical oregano extract were sabinene hydrate, thymol and carvacrol. Anti-inflammatory effect of thymol has been demonstrated in human neutrophiles incubated with 10 or 20 µg/ml of this compound (Braga et al., 2006). Mice edema is reported to be reduced with a topical application of 100 µg/cm2 of carvacrol (Sosa et al., 2005). Moreover, antioxidant properties of thymol and carvacrol have been demonstrated in several studies, suggesting their use as nutraceuticals ingredients in the development of novel functional foods. Derivatives of thymol and carvacrol have been described as antioxidant according to the DPPH radical scavenging method (Mastelic et al., 2008). Essential oils of oregano and their components carvacrol and thymol inhibited 3-nitrotyrosine formation, biomarker of the oxidative stress, supporting the nutraceutical value of oregano and the potential of thymol and carvacrol in preventing the formation of toxic products by the action of reactive nitrogen species (Prieto et el., 2007). Recently, carvacrol has been identify as responsible of COX-2 expression and as an activator of PPAR alpha and gamma provoking a PPARgammadependent suppression of COX-2 promoter activity as well, in human macrophage-like U937 cells (Hotta et al., 2010). In addition, carvacrol suppressed lipopolysaccharide-induced COX-2 mRNA and protein expression, suggesting that carvacrol regulates COX-2 expression through its agonistic effect on PPARgamma. Thymol and carvacrol prevented autoxidation of lipids

Although beneficial effect of sabinene in inflammation was previously known, molecular keys in anti-inflammatory or antioxidant effects of sabinene hydrate have been recently described: Effects of sabinene (1%) from Chinese herbs on ocular inflammation have been described (Yao and Chiou, 1993). In that study was found that lens protein-induced inflammation was inhibited significantly by the topical instillation of sabinene (1%). And

Transcriptions of the leptin hormone shown a general decrease in all groups when adipocytes were treated with any of the SFE essential oils. Tegarding to adiponectin, both oregano extracts, S1 and S2, increased very significantly the adiponectin gene expression in activated adipocytes but in non-activated, changes were not observed when treated with oregano S1 or S2 (Figures 7A-B).

**Figure 7A**

## **Figure 7B**

Fig. 7. Effect of oregano on the relative 24 h transcription gene quantification (RQ) of leptin (7A) and adiponectin (7B) on human adipocytes. Cells were differentiated and treated as described in Material and Methods section. Data represent means ± SEM calculated from six independent experiments with 3 replicates for each treatment. Statistic Dunnett's multiple comparison test VS Ctrl +oxLDL signification is represented by: \* P values less than 0.05 (significant), \*\* P values less than 0.01 (very significant), and \*\*\* P values less than 0.001 (extremely significant). Statistic Bonferroni multiple comparison test VS Ctrl - TNF-α signification is represented by: ♦♦ P values less than 0.01 (very significant), and ♦♦♦ P values less than 0.001 (extremely significant).

## **4. Discussion**

392 Inflammatory Diseases – Immunopathology, Clinical and Pharmacological Bases

Transcriptions of the leptin hormone shown a general decrease in all groups when adipocytes were treated with any of the SFE essential oils. Tegarding to adiponectin, both oregano extracts, S1 and S2, increased very significantly the adiponectin gene expression in activated adipocytes but in non-activated, changes were not observed when treated with

**24 h effect of oregano on mRNA levels of leptin**

**CONTROL Oregano S1**

**CONTROL Oregano S1**

\*\* \*\*

**TNF-** - + - + +

Fig. 7. Effect of oregano on the relative 24 h transcription gene quantification (RQ) of leptin (7A) and adiponectin (7B) on human adipocytes. Cells were differentiated and treated as described in Material and Methods section. Data represent means ± SEM calculated from six independent experiments with 3 replicates for each treatment. Statistic Dunnett's multiple comparison test VS Ctrl +oxLDL signification is represented by: \* P values less than 0.05 (significant), \*\* P values less than 0.01 (very significant), and \*\*\* P values less than 0.001 (extremely significant). Statistic Bonferroni multiple comparison test VS Ctrl - TNF-α signification is represented by: ♦♦ P values less than 0.01 (very significant), and ♦♦♦ P values

**TNF-** - + - + +

**24 h effect of oregano on mRNA levels of adiponectin**


\*\*\* \*\*\*

**Oregano S2**

**Oregano S2**


oregano S1 or S2 (Figures 7A-B).

\*\*\*

**0**

**Figure 7A**

**0.0**

**Figure 7B**

less than 0.001 (extremely significant).

**0.5**

**1.0**

**1.5**

**RQ**

**2.0**

**2.5**

**2**

**4**

**6**

**RQ**

**8**

**10**

It is described that during inflammation, the mature adipocytes are responsible for increasing production of pro-inflammatory adipokines (Ouchi et al., 2001). Infiltration of macrophages in the adipose tissue, and the consequent secretion of TNF-alpha by those, is a primary stimulus for the inflammatory properties of adipose tissue and intensify macrophage expression of TNF- α. This produces inflammation that if it persists provoke a chronic inflammation state (Guilherme et al., 2008).

Several natural compounds are known for their beneficial properties to some diseases or their derived complications and particularly concerning to their anti-inflammatory effects. Some of these effects include inhibition of the TNF-α signaling in adipocytes (Gonzales and orlando, 2008). Our oregano extracts as other natural compounds described, could have beneficial properties to some diseases or their derived complications and particularly concerning to their anti-inflammatory effects (Khanna et al., 2007).

In the present study, we have found that SFE oregano essentials oils inhibit TNF-α-induced increases in the secretion of pro-inflammatory adipokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and leptin) and the TNF-α-induced decreases of IL-10 and adiponectin secretion.

Our data suggest that oregano extract recovers the TNF-α-induced increases in inflammatory adipokines. A study demonstrated that resveratrol produced similar changes in adipokine secretion (Anh et al., 2007). In a study about the treatment of colitis in mouse with thyme and oregano essential oils reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory citokines were observed when the essential oils were administrated. In addition, the mice treated with these oils recover their corporal weight after the treatment, which could suggest that the oregano could exert effects on the adipocytes (Bukovska et al., 2007).

Main compounds present in supercritical oregano extract were sabinene hydrate, thymol and carvacrol. Anti-inflammatory effect of thymol has been demonstrated in human neutrophiles incubated with 10 or 20 µg/ml of this compound (Braga et al., 2006). Mice edema is reported to be reduced with a topical application of 100 µg/cm2 of carvacrol (Sosa et al., 2005). Moreover, antioxidant properties of thymol and carvacrol have been demonstrated in several studies, suggesting their use as nutraceuticals ingredients in the development of novel functional foods. Derivatives of thymol and carvacrol have been described as antioxidant according to the DPPH radical scavenging method (Mastelic et al., 2008). Essential oils of oregano and their components carvacrol and thymol inhibited 3-nitrotyrosine formation, biomarker of the oxidative stress, supporting the nutraceutical value of oregano and the potential of thymol and carvacrol in preventing the formation of toxic products by the action of reactive nitrogen species (Prieto et el., 2007). Recently, carvacrol has been identify as responsible of COX-2 expression and as an activator of PPAR alpha and gamma provoking a PPARgammadependent suppression of COX-2 promoter activity as well, in human macrophage-like U937 cells (Hotta et al., 2010). In addition, carvacrol suppressed lipopolysaccharide-induced COX-2 mRNA and protein expression, suggesting that carvacrol regulates COX-2 expression through its agonistic effect on PPARgamma. Thymol and carvacrol prevented autoxidation of lipids (Yanishlieva et al., 1999).

Although beneficial effect of sabinene in inflammation was previously known, molecular keys in anti-inflammatory or antioxidant effects of sabinene hydrate have been recently described: Effects of sabinene (1%) from Chinese herbs on ocular inflammation have been described (Yao and Chiou, 1993). In that study was found that lens protein-induced inflammation was inhibited significantly by the topical instillation of sabinene (1%). And

Supercritical Fluid Extraction of Oregano (*Origanum vulgare*) Essentials Oils Show

expression. J. Lipid Res., 2010. 51(1): p. 132-139.

Opin. Pharmacol., 2007. 7(3): p. 344-351.

TNBS-induced colitis in mice. Folia Biol, 2008. 54(1): p. 1-7.

Derivatives. J. Agric. Food Chem,, 2008. 56(11): p. 3989-3996.

Mukhopadyay, Editor. 2000, CRC Press, Boca Ratón, FL: USA. p. 3.

9(5): p. 367-377.

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1057-1063.

3765-3773.

94-103.

2007. 104(3): p. 889-895.

2006. 41(5): p. 1560-1565.

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Gonzales, A.M. and R.A. Orlando, Curcumin and resveratrol inhibit nuclear factor-kappaBmediated cytokine expression in adipocytes. Nutr. Metab., 2008. 5(1): p. 17. Guilherme, A., J.V. Virbasius, V. Puri, and M.P. Czech, Adipocyte dysfunctions linking

Hotta, M., R. Nakata, M. Katsukawa, K. Hori, S. Takahashi, and H. Inoue, Carvacrol, a

Juhás, S., S. Cikos, S. Czikková, J. Veselá, G. Il'ková, T. Hájek, K. Domaracká, M. Domaracký,

Khanna, D., G. Sethi, K.S. Ahn, M.K. Pandey, A.B. Kunnumakkara, B. Sung, A. Aggarwal,

Mastelic, J., I. Jerkovic, I. Blazevic, M. Poljak-Blazi, S. Borovic, I. Ivancic-Bace, V. Smrecki, N.

Mukhopadhyay, M., in Natural extracts using supercritical carbon dioxide, M.

Ocaña-Fuentes A, Arranz-Gutiérrez E, Señorans FJ, Reglero G. Supercritical fluid extraction

Ouchi, N., S. Kihara, T. Funahashi, Y. Matsuzawa, and K. Walsh, Obesity, adiponectin and vascular inflammatory disease. Curr. Opin. Lipidol., 2003. 14(6): p. 561-566. Ouchi, N., S. Kihara, Y. Arita, M. Nishida, A. Matsuyama, Y. Okamoto, M. Ishigami, H.

Prieto, J.M., P. Iacopini, P. Cioni, and S. Chericoni, In vitro activity of the essential oils of

Rajala, M.W. and P.E. Scherer, Minireview: The adipocyte--at the crossroads of energy

Rodríguez-Meizoso, I., F.R. Marin, M. Herrero, F.J. Señorans, G. Reglero, A. Cifuentes, and

Simons, P.J., P.S. van den Pangaart, C.P.A.A. van Roomen, J.M.F.G. Aerts, and L. Boon,

obesity to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Nat. Rev. Mol. Cell Biol., 2008.

component of thyme oil, activates PPARalpha and gamma and suppresses COX-2

D. Bujnáková, P. Rehák, and J. Koppel, Effects of borneol and thymoquinone on

and B.B. Aggarwal, Natural products as a gold mine for arthritis treatment. Curr.

Zarkovi´c, K. Brcic-Kostic, D.z. Vikic-Topic, and N. Müller, Comparative Study on the Antioxidant and Biological Activities of Carvacrol, Thymol, and Eugenol

of oregano (Origanum vulgare) essentials oils: anti-inflammatory properties based on cytokine response on THP-1 macrophages. Food Chem Toxicol. 2010

Kuriyama, K. Kishida, H. Nishizawa, K. Hotta, M. Muraguchi, Y. Ohmoto, S. Yamashita, T. Funahashi, and Y. Matsuzawa, Adipocyte-derived plasma protein, adiponectin, suppresses lipid accumulation and class A scavenger receptor expression in human monocyte-derived macrophages. Circulation, 2001. 103(8): p.

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*Cryptomeria japonica* essential oil containing kaurene (17.20%), elemol (10.88%), gammaeudesmol (9.41%), and sabinene (8.86%) as the major components inhibits the growth of drug-resistant skin pathogens and LPS-induced nitric oxide and pro-inflammatory cytokine production (nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin (IL)-1beta, and IL-6 production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW 264.7 macrophages (Yoon et al., 2009).

Our group recently has described similar anti-inflammatory effects from supercritical extract of origanum on activated human THP-1 macrophages cells. The results showed a decrease in the pro-inflammatory TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 cytokines synthesis as well as an increase in the production and mRNA expressions of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 (Ocaña-Fuentes et al., 2010).

For future works, it is necessary to determinate the mRNA expression levels of others adipokines and their mRNA levels of the implicated transcriptions factors that regulate the adipokine synthesis such as PPARγ and NF-kβ, transcription factor that all of the inflammatory mediators linked to chronic inflammation have been shown to be regulated (Anh et al., 2007). Also the activity of enzymes related to the inflammatory process such as COX-2 and iNOS will be the subject of our future investigations.

In summary, CO2 supercritical oregano extracts showed anti-inflammatory properties in a cellular model of inflammation and could have a play on the energy homeostasis through regulation of related hormone level by: Decreasing pro-inflammatory adipokines and increasing the anti-inflammatory IL-10, decreasing leptin, increasing adiponectin release and modifying their mRNA expressions. These results could help in suggest that essential oils from oregano could be used in future as novel options for treatment of chronic diseases based on inflammatory processes, as for example, including in novel foods. Although more studies as said above are needed.

#### **5. References**


*Cryptomeria japonica* essential oil containing kaurene (17.20%), elemol (10.88%), gammaeudesmol (9.41%), and sabinene (8.86%) as the major components inhibits the growth of drug-resistant skin pathogens and LPS-induced nitric oxide and pro-inflammatory cytokine production (nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin (IL)-1beta, and IL-6 production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated RAW 264.7

Our group recently has described similar anti-inflammatory effects from supercritical extract of origanum on activated human THP-1 macrophages cells. The results showed a decrease in the pro-inflammatory TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 cytokines synthesis as well as an increase in the production and mRNA expressions of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10

For future works, it is necessary to determinate the mRNA expression levels of others adipokines and their mRNA levels of the implicated transcriptions factors that regulate the adipokine synthesis such as PPARγ and NF-kβ, transcription factor that all of the inflammatory mediators linked to chronic inflammation have been shown to be regulated (Anh et al., 2007). Also the activity of enzymes related to the inflammatory process such as

In summary, CO2 supercritical oregano extracts showed anti-inflammatory properties in a cellular model of inflammation and could have a play on the energy homeostasis through regulation of related hormone level by: Decreasing pro-inflammatory adipokines and increasing the anti-inflammatory IL-10, decreasing leptin, increasing adiponectin release and modifying their mRNA expressions. These results could help in suggest that essential oils from oregano could be used in future as novel options for treatment of chronic diseases based on inflammatory processes, as for example, including in novel foods. Although more

Ahn, J., H. Lee, S. Kim, and T. Ha, Resveratrol inhibits TNF-alpha-induced changes of

Almeida, P., Ferreira, S., Crossover pressure for SFE of spearmint (Mentha spicata L.)

Bastard, J.-P., M. Maachi, C. Lagathu, M.J. Kim, M. Caron, H. Vidal, J. Capeau, and B. Feve,

Braga, P.C., M. Dal Sasso, M. Culici, T. Bianchi, L. Bordoni, and L. Marabini, Anti-

Bukovska, A., S. Cikos, S. Juhas, G. Il'kova, P. Rehak, and J. Koppel, Effects of a combination

Chun, S., D.A. Vattem, Y.T. Lin, and K. Shetty, Phenolic antioxidants from clonal oregano

Desruisseaux, M.S., Nagajyothi, M.E. Trujillo, H.B. Tanowitz, and P.E. Scherer, Adipocyte, adipose tissue, and infectious disease. Infect. Immun, 2007. 75(3): p. 1066-1078.

on Supercritical Fluids. Prosciba Book of Abstracts, 2007.: p. 31.

resistance. Eur. Cytokine Netw., 2006. 17(1): p. 4-12.

Inflamm, 2007. 2007: p. 23296.

Biochem., 2005. 40(2): p. 809-816.

neutrophil elastase. Pharmacology, 2006. 77(3): p. 130-136.

adipokines in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Biochem. Bioph. Res. Co., 2007. 364(4): p. 972-977.

essential oil with pure CO2 and with CO2 plus ethanol. I Iberoamerican Conference

Recent advances in the relationship between obesity, inflammation, and insulin

inflammatory activity of thymol: inhibitory effect on the release of human

of thyme and oregano essential oils on TNBS-induced colitis in mice. Mediat.

(Origanum vulgare) with antimicrobial activity against Helicobacter pylori. Process

COX-2 and iNOS will be the subject of our future investigations.

macrophages (Yoon et al., 2009).

(Ocaña-Fuentes et al., 2010).

studies as said above are needed.

**5. References** 


Sosa, S., G. Altinier, M. Politi, A. Braca, I. Morelli, and R. Della Loggia, Extracts and

Trayhurn, P. and I.S. Wood, Signalling role of adipose tissue: adipokines and inflammation

Wu, Z.-h. and S.-p. Zhao, Adipocyte: a potential target for the treatment of atherosclerosis.

Yanishlieva, N.V., E.M. Marinova, M.H. Gordon, and V.G. Raneva, Antioxidant activity and

Yao, Q.S. and G.C. Chiou, Inhibition of crystallins-induced inflammation in rabbit eyes with five phytogenic compounds. Acta Pharm. Sinic., 1993. 14(1): p. 13-17. Yoon, W.-J., S.-S. Kim, T.-H. Oh, N.H. Lee, and C.-G. Hyun, Cryptomeria japonica essential

Youdim, K.A. and S.G. Deans, Effect of thyme oil and thymol dietary supplementation on

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61-68.

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constituents of Lavandula multifida with topical anti-inflammatory activity.

mechanism of action of thymol and carvacrol in two lipid systems. Food Chem.,

oil inhibits the growth of drug-resistant skin pathogens and LPS-induced nitric oxide and pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Pol. J. Microbiol., 2009. 58(1): p.

the antioxidant status and fatty acid composition of the ageing rat brain. Brit. J

## *Edited by Mahin Khatami*

This book is a collection of comprehensive reviews contributed by experts in the diverse fields of acute and chronic inflammatory diseases, with emphasis on current pharmacological and diagnostic options. Interested professionals are also encouraged to review the contributions made by experts in a second related book entitled "Inflammation, Chronic Diseases and Cancer"; it deals with immunobiology, clinical reviews, and perspectives of the mechanisms of immune inflammatory responses that are involved in alterations of immune dynamics during the genesis, progression and manifestation of a number of inflammatory diseases and cancers, as well as perspectives for diagnosis, and treatment or prevention of these disabling and potentially preventable diseases, particularly for the growing population of older adults around the globe.

Photo by ClaudioVentrella / iStock

Inflammatory Diseases - Immunopathology, Clinical and Pharmacological Bases

Inflammatory Diseases

Immunopathology, Clinical and

Pharmacological Bases

*Edited by Mahin Khatami*