International Journal of Molecular Sciences Review The Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)-Derived Compounds in Intestinal Disorders Camila dos Santos Leite 1,2 , Gabriel Alves Bonafé 2 , Juliana Carvalho Santos 3 , Carlos Augusto Real Martinez 4 , Manoela Marques Ortega 2, * and Marcelo Lima Ribeiro 1,3, * 1 Laboratory of Immunopharmacology and Molecular Biology, São Francisco University Medical School, Bragança Paulista 12916-900, Brazil; camilayantony@gmail.com 2 Laboratory of Cell and Molecular Tumor Biology and Bioactive Compounds, São Francisco University Medical School, Bragança Paulista 12916-900, Brazil; gabrielbonafe@outlook.com 3 Lymphoma Translational Group, Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), 08916 Badalona, Spain; j.carvalho@carrerasresearch.org 4 Department of Surgery and Proctology, São Francisco University (USF), Bragança Paulista 12916-900, Brazil; carlos.martinez@usf.edu.br * Correspondence: manoela.ortega@usf.edu.br (M.M.O.); marcelo.ribeiro@usf.edu.br (M.L.R.) Abstract: Intestinal diseases, such as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) and colorectal cancer (CRC), are a significant source of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Epidemiological data have shown that IBD patients are at an increased risk for the development of CRC. IBD-associated cancer develops against a background of chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, and their products contribute to cancer development and progression. Therefore, the discovery of novel drugs for the treatment of  intestinal diseases is urgently needed. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has been largely used for thousands  of years in traditional Chinese medicine. Licorice and its derived compounds possess antiallergic, Citation: Leite, C.d.S.; Bonafé, G.A.; antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor effects. These pharmacological properties Carvalho Santos, J.; Martinez, C.A.R.; aid in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. In this review, we discuss the pharmacological potential Ortega, M.M.; Ribeiro, M.L. The Anti-Inflammatory Properties of of bioactive compounds derived from Licorice and addresses their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)-Derived properties. We also discuss how the mechanisms of action in these compounds can influence their Compounds in Intestinal Disorders. effectiveness and lead to therapeutic effects on intestinal disorders. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23, 4121. https://doi.org/10.3390/ Keywords: Glycyrrhiza glabra-derived compounds; glycyrrhizin (G); glycyrrhetinic acid (GA); dipotas- ijms23084121 sium glycyrrhizinate (DPG); inflammation; oxidative stress; intestinal disorders Academic Editor: Natália Cruz-Martins Received: 25 February 2022 1. Introduction Accepted: 23 March 2022 Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thou- Published: 8 April 2022 sands of years. Clinically, it is used widely to treat immune systems, respiratory, and Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral digestive diseases [1–6], and no severe side effects have been reported so far [7]. In with regard to jurisdictional claims in addition, Licorice-derived compounds possesses antiallergic, antibacterial, antiviral, anti- published maps and institutional affil- inflammatory, and anticarcinogenic effects [8–10]. These pharmacological properties aid in iations. inflammatory disease treatment [11–13] (Figure 1). The main bioactive compounds isolated from Licorice are glycyrrhizin (G) and gly- cyrrhetinic acid (GA) [14]. G is a triterpene glycoside complex and has been shown to possess cytotoxic effects against several cancer cell lines such as colon, lung, leukemia, Copyright: © 2022 by the authors. melanoma, and glioblastoma (GBM) [9,15–21]. Additionally, the incidence of liver carcino- Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. genesis in patients with hepatitis C was clinically reduced after G administration [22]. GA, This article is an open access article an aglycone of G, has been demonstrated to have pro-apoptotic effects on human hepatoma, distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons promyelocytic leukemia, stomach cancer, Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus-infected Attribution (CC BY) license (https:// cells, and prostate cancer cells in vitro by inducing DNA fragmentation and oxidative creativecommons.org/licenses/by/ stress [23–25]. In addition, several genotoxic studies have indicated that G is neither 4.0/). Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23, 4121. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23084121 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/ijms Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23, 4121 2 of 12 teratogenic nor mutagenic and may possess anti-genotoxic properties under certain condi- Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23, x FOR PEER REVIEW 2 of 13 tions [26,27]. As a result, there is a high level of use of Licorice and GZ in the US with an estimated consumption of 0.027–3.6 mg/kg/day [27]. Figure 1. Figure Licorice pharmacological 1. Licorice pharmacological properties. properties. However, The main GA oral efficacy bioactive compoundsis impaired isolateddue to its from low solubility Licorice and permeability are glycyrrhizin (G) and through the gastrointestinal mucosa [28]. It has been shown that GA glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) [14]. G is a triterpene glycoside complex and has been shown administered throughto nanocarriers (GA-F127/TPGS-MMs) [29], micellar carrier based on possess cytotoxic effects against several cancer cell lines such as colon, lung, leukemia,polyethylene glycol- derivatized GA (PEG-Fmoc-GA) [30], and microparticles [31] increase absorption signifi- melanoma, and glioblastoma (GBM) [9,15–21]. Additionally, the incidence of liver cantly [28–31]. Both G and GA have been prescribed for several therapeutic purposes, such carcinogenesis in patients with hepatitis C was clinically reduced after G administration as cancer and inflammation; however, side effects have pointed out the problem of their [22]. GA, an aglycone of G, has been demonstrated to have pro-apoptotic effects on human toxicity [32]. hepatoma, promyelocytic leukemia, stomach cancer, Kaposi sarcoma-associated Dipotassium glycyrrhizinate (DPG), a dipotassium salt of GA, has been recently herpesvirus-infected cells, and prostate cancer cells in vitro by inducing DNA used as a flavoring and skin conditioning agent with demonstrated anti-allergic and anti- fragmentation and oxidative stress [23–25]. In addition, several genotoxic studies have inflammatory properties [32]. It can inhibit leukotriene and reduce histamine levels with indicated that G is neither teratogenic nor mutagenic and may possess anti-genotoxic an apparent lack of adverse side effects [32–34]. In addition, it has been demonstrated properties under certain conditions [26,27]. As a result, there is a high level of use of that DPG has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-ulcerative, and Licorice and GZ in the US with an estimated consumption of 0.027–3.6 mg/kg/day [27]. antitumoral properties [11,13,35]. However, GA oral efficacy is impaired due to its low solubility and permeability In this context, this review examines recent studies on the pharmacological properties through the gastrointestinal of some bioactive mucosafrom compounds derived [28].Licorice It has and beenaddresses shown that their GA administered anti-inflammatory through nanocarriers and antioxidant (GA-F127/TPGS-MMs) properties, [29], micellar as well as their therapeutic effectscarrier based on polyethylene on gastrointestinal disorders. glycol-derivatized GA (PEG-Fmoc-GA) [30], and microparticles [31] increase absorption significantly 2. G, GA, and[28–31]. Both G Anti-Inflammation DPG-Mediated and GA have beenRegulation prescribed for several therapeutic purposes, As stated previously, Licorice compounds such side such as cancer and inflammation; however, as G, effects GA, have pointed and DPG haveoutanti- the problem of their toxicity [32]. inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, immunomodulatory, and antitumor properties [11–13]. Dipotassium Inflammation is anglycyrrhizinate evolutionarily (DPG), a dipotassium conserved, salt of GA, tightly regulated has been protective recently used mechanism that as a flavoring and skin conditioning agent with demonstrated comprehends immune, vascular, and cellular biochemical reactions. The normal inflam- anti-allergic and anti- inflammatory matory response properties [32]. Itrestricted is temporally can inhibit leukotriene and, in general, and reduce histamine beneficial levels to the host. with Chronic an apparent lack of adverse side effects [32–34]. In addition, it has been inflammatory response, on the other hand, is a risk factor for the development of several demonstrated that DPG diseases such as ischemic heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes mellitus, among and has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-ulcerative, oth- antitumoral properties ers [36,37]. Taking [11,13,35]. this into account, natural compounds have been widely used to treat all sortsIn this context, conditions. of inflammatory this review examines recent studies on the pharmacological properties of some bioactiveeffects The anti-inflammatory compounds derived of G and GA havefromlong Licorice beenand addresses reported. G has their anti- exerted inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as well as their therapeutic anti-inflammatory actions by inhibiting the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) effects on gastrointestinal disorders. by neutrophils, the most potent inflammatory mediator at the site of inflammation [38]. Moreover, G has enhanced interleukin (IL)-10 production by liver dendritic cells in mice 2. G, GA, with and DPG-Mediated hepatitis Anti-Inflammation [39]. GA has presented Regulation anti-inflammatory and anticarcinogen effects on As stated previously, Licorice compounds such as G, GA, and DPG have anti- inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, immunomodulatory, and antitumor properties [11– 13]. Inflammation is an evolutionarily conserved, tightly regulated protective mechanism that comprehends immune, vascular, and cellular biochemical reactions. The normal Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23, 4121 3 of 12 several tumor cell lines such as human hepatoma (HLE), promyelocytic leukemia (HL- 60), stomach cancer (KATO III), and prostate cancer (LNCaP e DU-145) by both DNA fragmentation and gene deregulation required for oxidative stress control [23–25]. More recently, one study exposed the U251 GBM cell line to different concentrations of GA (1 mM, 2 mM, and 4 mM), and the authors observed that the inhibition of cell proliferation and colony formation, apoptosis stimulation, and significant decrease in p65 protein, which is responsible for the activation of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway [40]. The NF-κB pathway is constantly activated in GBM and is responsible for the aggressiveness of the disease and regulation of the expression of anti-apoptotic genes, and cell adhesion and invasion factors [41]. Thus, some studies have suggested that the inhibition of the NF-κB pathway could decrease the resistance of tumor cells to chemotherapy and contribute to increasing the survival of patients with GBM [42–45]. Recently, a study has shown that DPG exposure has anti-tumoral effects on GBM cell lines (U87MG and T98G) through cell proliferation decrease and apoptosis stimulation. Furthermore, DPG anti-tumoral effect was related to NF-κB pathway suppression by IRAK2 and TRAF6 mediating miR-16 and miR-146a, respectively. Finally, the authors have also shown that DPG was able to inhibit the subpopulation of stem cells essential for tumor formation, survival, and recurrence [46]. 3. G, GA, and DPG-Mediated Crosstalk between Inflammation and Oxidative Stress Pathways Oxidative stress consists of an imbalance of endogenous pro-oxidant and antioxi- dant activities, characterized by excessive formation of high ROS and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) [47]. Small amounts of ROS are synthesized physiologically and act on cell homeostasis; however, in the disease context, the excessive synthesis of ROS disrupts the antioxidant defense system, causing cellular apoptosis [47]. This condition is commonly as- sociated with oxidative changes such as lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation, carbonyl adduct, nitration, and DNA impairment as well as the induction of inflammatory processes, leading to several diseases [48,49]. Cyclooxygenase type 2 (Cox-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) enzymes, responsible for the release of pro-inflammatory mediators, prostaglandin E2 (Pge-2), and nitric oxide (NO), play relevant roles in oxidative and acute inflammatory processes [49]. The high mobility group box 1 (Hmgb1) cytokine plays an important role in the pathologic process of endothelial permeability under oxidative stress [49]. DPG and G have presented antioxidant effects due to their negative modulation of Hmgb1 in the DSS-induced colitis mice model [49]. It has been shown that G inhibits Hmgb1-cytokine secretion by blocking the Cytochrome C release and caspase-3 activity, consequently in- hibiting apoptosis in inflammation-related stroke rat models [50,51]. In addition, the G compound decreases the iNOS, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 expression levels by the modulation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (p38-MAPK) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (p-JNK) signaling pathways in brain vascular cells [51] and by preventing oxidative stress and apoptosis through the inhibition of p38-MAPK, p-JNK, and NF-κB signaling pathways in lung cells [52]. Accordingly, the G compound can inhibit oxidative stress and inflammatory response by attenuating the activity of the Hmgb1 and NF-κB signaling pathways, with decreased levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6) in lung cells [53]. Moreover, G increases glutathione-S-transferase (GSTs) levels, decreases MDA, and nega- tively regulates the expression of TNF-α, IL-6, iNOS, and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) in liver cells [54]. G compound has been shown to suppress NF-κB pathway through inhibiting the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in renal cells [55] and reducing the forma- tion of intracellular ROS. Moreover, an activation of the AMP/nuclear factor erythroid-2- related factor-2 (NRF2) pathways in vitro was observed, positively regulating the antiox- idant enzymes, HO-1, NQO-1, and GCLC and negatively regulating TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 [56]. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23, 4121 4 of 12 According to descriptions, GA also suppresses oxidative stress and neuroinflammation induced by A1C13 through TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway inhibition [57]. In accordance, one study has observed that GA was able to attenuate oxidative stress and neuroinflamma- tion induced by rotenone reducing the activation of the ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule-1 (Iba-1), preventing glutathione depletion, lipid peroxidation inhibition, and attenuation of the induction of COX-2 and iNOS [58]. In addition, a restored mitochondrial complex I and IV, a reduction in the generation of ROS, the release of Cytochrome C, and ultimately cell apoptosis inhibition after exposure to GA in brain tissue of adult Sprague Dawley Rats were observed [59]. GA can suppresses lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis through activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway, and inhibition of the NF-κB in renal cells [60]. GA also suppresses oxidative stress and inflammation through activation of the NRF-2 and HO-1 pathways and IκB and NF-κB p65 signaling inhibition in cardiac cells [61]. In the liver tissue of rats, GA inhibits NTiO2-induced apoptosis by superoxide dis- mutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activation [61]. Moreover, it has been shown that GA can inhibit caspase-3 and -9 at mitochondria in HepG2 cells, positively and negatively regulating Bcl-2 and Bax proteins expression, respectively [62]. Table 1 summarizes the studies used in this review. Table 1. Summary of studies showing the autoinflammatory and anti-tumoral effects of G, GA, and DPG. Model Compound (Dose) Mechanism Reference In vitro (KATO III and HL-60) G (1 to 10 mg/mL) Antitumor activity ↑ apoptosis [23] In vitro (HLE, KATO III, and G (0.1 to 1 mg/mL) Antitumor activity ↑ apoptosis [24] HL-60) In vitro (DU-145 and G (1 to 20 mM) Antitumor activity ↑ apoptosis [25] LNCaP) In vitro (Caco3, HT29, and RAW 264.7) DPG (300 µM) ↓ TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, as well as [34] In vivo (Acute lung injury mice DPG (3 and 8 mg/kg/day) HMGB1 receptors, RAGE and TLR4 model) In vitro (neutrophils) G (0.05, 0.5, and 5.0 µg/mL) ↓ ROS [38] In vivo (Con A-induced hepatitis) G (2 mg/mouse) ↑ IL-10 and ↓ liver inflammation [39] Ex vivo (liver dendritic cells) G (0.1 mg/mL) Anticancer effect ↓ proliferation and ↑ In vitro (U251) GA (1, 2, 4 mM) apoptosis possibly related to the NF-κB [40] mediated pathway Anticancer effect ↓ proliferation and ↑ In vitro (U87MG and T98G) DPG (0.1 to 2 mM) [46] apoptosis. ↓ NF-κB pathway ↓ colitis, at the earlier stages, ↓ In vivo (DSS-induced colitis mice inflammation though AMPK-COX-2-PGE. DPG (8 mg/kg/day) [49] model) At later times ↓ iNOS and COX-2 in HMGB1-dependent manner ↓ HMGB1 and its downstream In vivo (mechanical G (2, 4 and 10 mg/kg/day) inflammatory factors, [50] thrombectomy rat model) and ↓ oxidative stress In vivo (Focal cerebral I/R injury ↓ HMGB1 and ↑ apoptosis through the G (4 mg/kg/day) [51] rat model) blockage of the JNK and p38 ↓ inflammatory responses, oxidative In vivo (Sepsis-induced acute stress G (25 and 50 mg/kg/day) [52] lung injury rat model) damage, and apoptosis though ↓ NF-κB, JNK, and p38 MAPK In vivo (Acute lung injury mice ↓ LPS-induced lung injury via blocking G (20 and 40 mg/kg/day) [53] model) HMGB1/TLRs/NF-κB pathway Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23, 4121 5 of 12 Table 1. Cont. Model Compound (Dose) Mechanism Reference ↓ RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis In vitro (RAW 264.7 and bone G (25 to 100 µM) and oxidative stress through ↑ [56] marrow monocytes) AMPK/Nrf2 and ↓ NF-κB and MAPK ↓ dopamine neuron loss and ↓ Iba-1 and GFAP In vivo (Parkinson rat model) GA (50 mg/kg/day) ↑ antioxidant enzyme activity, ↓ lipid [58] peroxidation, ↓ pro-inflammatory cytokines ↓ release of cytochrome-c and In vivo (Vascular dementia rat GA (20 mg/kg/day) ↑ Bcl2, and ↑ the endogenous [59] model) antioxidants In vitro (HBZY-1) GA (50 and 100 µM) ↓ oxidative stress via ↑ ERK signaling In vivo (sepsis-induced acute [60] GA (25 and 50 mg/kg/day) pathway. ↓ NF-κB kidney injury mice model) ↓ oxidative stress and inflammatory In vivo (myocardial ischemic cytokines. GA (10 and 20 mg/kg/day) [61] injury-rat model) ↑ Nrf2 antioxidant response ↓ NF-κB activation ↓ H2 O2 -induced oxidative stress, ↑ In vitro (HEPG2) G (5, 25 and 125 µg/mL) [62] apoptosis ↓ TNF-α-mediated IL-8 through ↓ MAPK In vitro (HT29) GA (1, 5 and 10 µM) [63] and the IKB/NF-κB pathway In vivo (DSS-induced colitis mice ↓ colitis, ↓ inflammation by regulating GA (10 and 50 mg/kg/day) [64] model) COX-2 and NF-κB ↓ colitis, ↓ inflammatory injury via In vivo (rat model of ulcerative G (40 mg/kg/day) suppression of NF-κB, TNF-α, [65] colitis) and ICAM-1 In vivo (TNBS-induced G (10, 30 and 90 ↓ colitis, ↓ IFN-γ, IL-12, TNF-α, and IL-17 [66] experimental colitis mice model) mg/kg/day) and ↑ IL-10 In vivo (DSS-induced colitis rat ↓ colitis, ↓ IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, Cxcl-2, G (2 mg rectally) [67] model) Mcp1, and MPO ↓ colitis, ↓ serum levels of TNF-α and In vivo (TNBS-induced GA (2, 10 and 50 mg/kg, IL-1β, ↓ colon MPO and MDA, and ↑ [68] experimental colitis rat model) rectally and 10 mg/kg/day) SOD In vivo (rat model of ulcerative ↓ colitis, when combined with emu G (100 mg/kg/day) [69] colitis) synergistically ↓ of PPARγ and TNF-α In vivo (TNBS-induced ↓ colitis, ↓ HMGB1 on DC/macrophage G (50 mg/kg/day) [70] experimental colitis mice model) mediated Th17 proliferation In vivo (indomethacin-induced ↓ TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, ↑ small intestinal injury mice GA (100 mg/kg/day) indomethacin-induced small intestinal [71] model) damage ↓ colitis, regulated the phosphorylation In vivo (DSS-induced colitis mice G (100 mg/kg/day) of transcription factors such as NF-κB [72] model) p65 and IκB α ↑ mucosal healing by ↓ CXCL1, CXCL3, CXCL5, PTGS2, IL-1β, IL-6, CCL12, CCL7; ↑ wound healing genes COL3A1, In vivo (DSS-induced colitis mice DPG (8 mg/kg/day) MMP9, VTN, PLAUR, SERPINE, CSF3, [73] model) FGF2, FGF7, PLAT, TIMP1 and ↑ extracellular matrix remodeling genes, VTN, and PLAUR 4. Therapeutic Effect of G, GA, and DPG for Intestinal Disorders Crohn’s Disease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC) are the main inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) that affect the gastrointestinal tract. These diseases are characterized by chronic and progressive inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, associated with extrain- testinal manifestations such as arthritis, uveitis, erythema nodosum, gangrenous pyoderma, Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23, 4121 6 of 12 and cholangitis [74,75]. It has been shown that inflammatory reaction and the increased production of ROS are commonly associated with the pathogenesis of IBD [49,76]. ROS are toxic to cells and their overproduction causes breakage of the various lines of defense that make up the mucosal barrier [76]. The dysregulation of the immune response and the exaggerated release of pro-inflammatory/interleukin cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α) culminate in the exacerbation of intestinal inflammation [63,64]. Thus, oxidative stress is considered an initial step to the colonic epithelium inflammation of patients with IBD. Patients with IBD are at increased risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC). Epi- demiological data from patients with UC estimate that the risk of CRC is approximately 2- to 3-fold more than the general population, and patients with CD appear to have a similar increased risk [77]. Chronic inflammation is the most important aspect of neoplastic progression, resulting in dysplastic precursor lesions that may arise from different areas of the colon [78]. The overproduction of ROS can damage the DNA of the chronically inflamed colonic mucosa cells, increasing the mutation rate in genes related to development of CRC [76,79]. Oxidative reactions are an integral part of the inflammatory response and are generally associated with CRC development [80]. The potential mechanisms for the natural alkaloids in the treatment of UC has been recently described, showing that its positive effects are closely related to the modulation of oxidative stress, immune response, intestinal microbiota, and improvement of the gut barrier function [81]. Considering that oxidative stress is one of the main factors related to the development of IBD and IBD-related CRC, it is possible that the use of active principles found in Glycyrrhiza glabra extract may be effective for the treatment and prevention of both diseases [82] (Table 1). Several studies have evaluated the effectiveness of G, GA, and GL in experimental models of induced colitis [65–68,83]. The oral administration or application of enemas containing these drugs, alone or associated with other substances with anti-inflammatory activity, can reduce the inflammatory process of the colonic mucosa, and oxidative tissue damage as well as improve epithelial healing of the colonic mucosa [68,83]. Yuan et al. were the first authors to evaluate the effects of Glycyrrhizinate extract in an experimental model of acetic acid-induced colitis [65]. The authors described that Glycyrrhizinate extract has a potent anti-inflammatory effect that is mediated by the sup- pression of NF-κB, TNF-α, and ICAM-1 in colonic mucosa. Three years later, Sun et al. investigated the therapeutic potential of G in trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced experimental colitis in mice [66]. After colitis induction by TNBS, G was administered by gavage (10 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg, and 30 mg/kg) for 10 days. G significantly amelio- rated TNBS-induced colitis and dose-dependently decreased macroscopic and microscopic inflammation scores, and MPO activity. Mechanistically, G downregulated the colonic levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IFN-α, IL-12, TNF-α, and IL-17 and increased the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. The efficacy of G topical application in the treatment of a rat model of UC was also evaluated in experimental colitis models induced by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS). G significantly ameliorated the extent of colitis, which was associated with a decrease in the expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, including interleukin IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, CXCL2, and CCL2 in the inflamed mucosa. G also inhibited MPO activity in the inflamed mucosa and had a therapeutic effect on experimental colitis in rats [67]. A synergistic effect was observed when G was combined with emu oil in a colitis rat model induced by acid acetic. The authors observed that the treatment combination significantly improved their ability to reduce macroscopic and microscopic lesions as well as to decrease MPO levels and enhanced downmodulation on PPARγ and TNF-α expression [69]. More recently, Chen et al. reported that G ameliorated colitis and decreased the production of inflammatory mediators such as HMGB1, IFN-γ, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-17. Furthermore, G suppressed the proliferation of Th17 cells in colitis and inhibited the ability of dendritic cells and macrophages to induce the differentiation of Th17 cells that was enhanced in the presence of HMGB1 [70]. To find the best route of administration, Liu et al. compared rectal and oral treatments with GA in TNBS-induced colitis in rats. Both rectally and orally administered treatment Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23, 4121 7 of 12 effectively attenuated colitis at different dosages. Furthermore, administration by both routes decreased serum levels of TNF-α and IL-1β, colon MPO activity and MDA con- centration, and elevated SOD activity [68]. It has been demonstrated that GA is capable of blocking prostaglandin-E2 synthesis via blockade of COX-2 resulting in concurrent augmentation of nitric oxide production on indomethacin-induced small intestinal injury in mice [71]. In addition, using an ulcerative colitis mice model, GA reduced IL-6 and IL-1β, regulating the phosphorylation of NF-κB and IkB-α, and the expression of COX-2 and PGE2 in an ulcerative colitis model [72]. The anti-inflammatory mechanisms of both G and GA were described as mediated by IFN-y, TNF-alpha, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, and IL-17. Moreover, G and GA mediated intercellular adhesion molecules 1, P-selectin, iNOS, and the NF-κB pathway through the nuclear translocation of NF-κB and activation of STATs 3 and 6 [11]. In human colonic epithelial cell line HT-29, GA exhibits the inhibitory activity on TNF-α and IL-8 production and the blockade of the MAPK and the IKB/NF-κB pathways [63]. The use of DPG as a therapeutic strategy to overcome intestinal inflammation was also evaluated. Vitali et al. studied the DPG effects on HMGB1, an early pro-inflammatory cytokine that is released from injured cells during inflammation. In vitro assays show that DPG significantly reduces the release of HMGB1 as well as expression levels of pro- inflammatory cytokines, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6. In vivo, DPG decreases the severity of DSS-induced colitis as well as intestinal inflammation reduction mediated by a downregula- tion of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, as well as HMGB1 receptors, RAGE, and TLR4 [34]. Posteriorly, the same research group showed that DPG has a protec- tive effect on colitis and inflammation through the inhibition of oxidative tissue stress [49]. It was observed that DPG can decrease oxidative stress through the inhibition of iNOS and COX-2 ameliorating DSS-induced colitis in mice. It was demonstrated in vitro that DPG decreases inflammation-related oxidative stress, through (i) an earlier ability to promote AMP-activated kinase (AMPK)-phosphorylation and (ii) a later HMGB1-dependent mecha- nism. Moreover, DPG can also improve colonic inflammation in DSS-induced colitis mice model through downregulation of the pro-inflammatory genes (CXCL1, CXCL3, CXCL5, PTGS2, IL-1β, IL-6, CCL12, and CCL7), and upregulation of genes involved in healing (COL3A1, MMP9, VTN, PLAUR, SERPINE, CSF3, FGF2, FGF7, PLAT, and TIMP1), which contribute to accelerating intestinal mucosa repair in induced colitis [73]. It has recently been shown that DPG increases the expression of the receptors farnesoid-X-receptor (FXR), pregnane-X-receptor (PXR), and G-protein-coupled-receptor (GPCR; TGR5), decreasing the oxidative stress and consequently intestinal/hepatic inflammation in DSS colitis animal model, with a decrease in IL-8 [84]. Figure 2 summarizes the main mechanism of action of G, GA, and DPG. The evidence from all these experimental studies suggests that the bioactive com- pounds from Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in intestinal disorders through different mechanisms of action. Considering that these molec- ular features are also important in human intestinal disorders, it is reasonable to assume that Licorice might have similar activity in humans. Therefore, several clinical studies have focused on the pharmacological effects of Licorice on intestinal diseases (Table 2). However, to date, there is no clinical evidence showing the effect of Licorice in patients with IBD. It has also been shown that Licorice has potentially serious side effects for humans [27]. Clinical studies have shown that the most important side effects of Licorice and glycyrrhizin are hypertension and hypokalemic-induced secondary disorders [85]. Biochemical studies indicate that G inhibits 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, the enzyme responsible for inactivating cortisol. As a result, continuous, high-level exposure to GZ compounds can produce hypermineralocorticoid-like effects in both animals and humans [7,27]. Chronic use of Licorice can lead to hypokalemia and hypertension. Some people are more sensitive to licorice exposure [7]. Licorice side effects are increased by hypokalemia, prolonged gastrointestinal transient time, decreased 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activities, hypertension, and anorexia nervosa [85]. These side-effects are reversible upon withdrawal Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23, x FOR PEER REVIEW 8 of 13 Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23, 4121 upregulation of genes involved in healing (COL3A1, MMP9, VTN, PLAUR, SERPINE, 8 of 12 CSF3, FGF2, FGF7, PLAT, and TIMP1), which contribute to accelerating intestinal mucosa repair in induced colitis [73]. It has recently been shown that DPG increases the expression of the receptors farnesoid-X-receptor (FXR), pregnane-X-receptor (PXR), and G-protein- of Licorice or Glycyrrhizin [27]. It can be assumed from these data that the consumption of coupled-receptor (GPCR; TGR5), decreasing the oxidative stress and consequently Licorice extract products presents no concern for safe use as a supporting drug in patients intestinal/hepatic with IBD. However,inflammation in DSS colitisclinical multicenter, randomized animalstudies model,that with a decrease include in IL-8 a larger [84]. number Figure 2 summarizes the main mechanism of action of G, GA, and DPG. of patients are still necessary to verify the benefits of using Licorice extracts in the treatment of IBD, and as a natural therapeutic strategy to prevent CRC in patients with extensive and active forms of long-term IBD. Figure 2. Molecular mechanisms of Glycyrrhiza glabra-derived compounds in intestinal disorders. Compounds derived from Glycyrrhiza glabra have anti-inflammatory potential. G, GA, and DPG act through the inhibition of HMGB1, TLR4, and RAGE receptors and significantly regulate important Figure 2. Molecular mechanisms of Glycyrrhiza glabra-derived compounds in intestinal disorders. cytokines, Compounds interleukins, derived from andGlycyrrhiza genes involved glabrain the anti-inflammatory have inflammatory process. TheseG,effects potential. are DPG GA, and related act tothrough the capacity of regulating important inflammatory signaling pathways such as HMGB1, the inhibition of HMGB1, TLR4, and RAGE receptors and significantly regulate important NF-κB, and MAPK.interleukins, cytokines, Oxidative stressand is significantly genes involvedreduced because of cellular in the inflammatory and process. molecular These effectschanges, andto are related the capacity of consequently, regulating the important inflammatory inflammatory process is attenuatedsignaling pathways as a result suchwith of treatment as HMGB1, NF-kB, and these compounds. MAPK. Oxidative stress is significantly reduced because of cellular and molecular changes, and consequently, Table 2. Clinical the trialsinflammatory process with Licorice in is disorders. intestinal attenuated as a result of treatment with these compounds. Drug Clinical Trial Phase N of Pts Status Diseases Results The evidence from all these experimental studies suggests that the bioactive Traditional Chinese Medication Irritable bowel NCT03135821 2, 3 104 Unknown NA (containing 3 g of Licorice) compounds from Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) have anti-inflammatory syndrome and antioxidant Traditional Chinese Medicine (17effects g in intestinal disorders through different mechanisms of action. Irritable bowel Considering that NCT00676975 2 104 Complete NA herbal extract containing G) these molecular features are also important in human intestinal disorders, it is reasonable syndrome Modified Gegen Qinlian Decoction to assume that Licorice might have60similar activity in humans. Therefore, NCT04057547 1 Recruiting Ulcerative colitis several NAclinical (containing 6 g of Licorice) studies have focused on the pharmacological effects of Licorice on intestinal diseases Modified Gegen Qinlian Decoction Irritable bowel (Table NCT04312477 2). However, to date, 1 there is60no clinical evidence showing the effect of Licorice Recruiting NA in (containing 6 g of Licorice) syndrome patients with IBD. Pneumatosis Traditional Chinese Medicine (17 g NCT04368663 NA 100 Recruiting cystoides NA herbal extract containing 2 g of G) intestinalis Abbreviation: NA, not available. 5. Conclusions and Future Perspectives The broad involvement of Licorice-derived compounds in intestinal disorders and their potential to overcome these disorders and the mechanism of action is presented in this review. In summary, the evidence from all these experimental studies suggests that the bioactive compounds obtained from Licorice have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that affect anti-intestinal disorders through different mechanisms of action. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23, 4121 9 of 12 This provides an interesting background for understanding how G, GA, and DPG com- pounds act and contributes to the development of natural therapeutic strategies and to the establishment of research models. In addition, more research is needed to determine the mechanism of action in different biological activities. Clinical trials on G, GA, and DPG are also required to validate these pharmacological effects, to establish these com- pounds as promising pharmaceuticals, and to fill some gaps regarding their safety and toxicological characteristics. Author Contributions: C.d.S.L., G.A.B., J.C.S., C.A.R.M., M.M.O. and M.L.R. made a substantial contribution to all aspects of the preparation of this manuscript. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript. Funding: M.L.R. acknowledges supports from CNPq (305402/2019-6). C.A.R.M. acknowledges supports from CNPq (303837/2018-7). 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