Hillaire & Moquin (Polygalaceae)

Ximenia americana L.: Chemical Characterization and Gastroprotective Effect

Ximenia americana L., popularly known in Brazil as “ameixa do-mato, ameixa-brava, and ameixa-do-sertão,” is widely used in folk medicine to treat several intestinal disorders. The present study assessed the potential mechanisms of action underlying the gastroprotective activity of the hydroethanolic extract of Ximenia americana L. (EHXA) stem bark. The acute toxicity of EHXA was estimated, and later, the gastroprotective effect in mice was assessed through acute models of gastric lesions induced by acidified or absolute ethanol and indomethacin, where the following mechanisms were pharmacologically analyzed: the involvement of prostaglandins (PG), histamine (H2) receptors, ATP-dependent potassium channels, sulfhydryl groups (SH), α2 adrenergic receptors, nitric oxide (NO), myeloperoxidase (MPO), gastric mucus production, and acetylcholine-mediated intestinal motility. Regarding toxicity, EHXA did not cause deaths or signs of toxicity (LD50 greater than or equal to 2000 mg/kg/p.o.). When the gastroprotective effect was assessed, EHXA (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg/p.o.) reduced the rate of lesions induced by acidified ethanol by 65.63; 53.66, and 58.02% in absolute ethanol at 88.91, 78.82, and 74.68%, respectively, when compared to the negative control group. In the indomethacin-induced gastric injury model, the reductions were 84.69, 55.99, 55.99, and 42.50%, respectively. The study revealed that EHXA might stimulate mucus production and reduce intestinal motility through SH groups, NO production, and activation of α2 adrenergic receptors. The results indicated that EHXA had significant gastroprotective activity in the evaluated models. However, further investigation is required to elucidate the cellular and molecular events underlying the action of EHXA components and to correlate them with the modulation of the signaling pathways, as demonstrated by the current pharmacological approach. Therefore, the results demonstrated in the present study, as well as previously reported findings, support the recommendation of using this species in traditional communities in Brazil.

The Antinociceptive Effect of a Hydroalcoholic Extract of Polygala altomontana and Its Chemical Profile Using UPLC-ESI-QTOF-HR-MS

The hydroalcoholic extract of Polygala altomontana (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg, i.g.) showed a dose-dependent antinociceptive action during the inflammatory phase of the formalin test. In addition, the preparation (30 and 300 mg/kg, i.g.) showed anti-hyperalgesic action when tested on a mechanical nociception model. UPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS data indicated the active extract contained phenylpropanoid sucrose esters, glycosylated quercetin derivatives, styrylpyrones, and coumarins. Some identified compounds, including styrylpyrones and coumarins, have previously demonstrated antinociceptive action. The results also show that P. altomontana shows potential for developing pain-relieving herbal remedies and drugs.

Pharmacology of α-spinasterol, a phytosterol with nutraceutical values: A review

α-Spinasterol is a phytosterol found in various edible and non-edible plant sources. The edible plant materials containing α-spinasterol include spinach leaves, cucumber fruits, seeds of pumpkin and watermelon, argan seed oil, cactus pear seed oil and Amaranthus sp. It is a bioavailable nutraceutical, and it can cross the blood-brain barrier. It possesses several important pharmacological properties such as anti-diabetes mellitus, antiinflammation, hypolipidemic, antiulcer, neuroprotection, anti-pain and antitumour activities. For this review, literature search was made focusing on the pharmacological properties of α-spinasterol using PubMed and Google Scholar data bases. Recent studies show the promising antidiabetic properties of α-spinasterol. Its anti-diabetic mechanisms include enhancement of insulin secretion, reduction in insulin resistance, anti-diabetic nephropathy, increase in glucose uptake in muscle cells and inhibition of glucose absorption from intestine. Besides, it is a safe antiinflammatory agent, and its antiinflammatory mechanisms include inhibition of cyclooxygenases, antagonism of TRPV1 receptor and attenuation of proinflammatory cytokines and mediators. It is a promising and safe nutraceutical molecule for human health care. Food supplements, value-added products and nutraceutical formulations can be developed with α-spinasterol for the management of diabetes, chronic inflammatory diseases and improving general health. This review provides all scattered pharmacological studies on α-spinasterol in one place and highlights its immense value for human health care.

Metabolic Profiling of Heliotropium crispum Aerial Parts Using HPLC and FTIR and In Vivo Evaluation of Its Anti-Ulcer Activity Using an Ethanol Induced Acute Gastric Ulcer Model

This study explored the antiulcer potential of methanol extract and fractions of Heliotropium crispum roots against the ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model in rats. Metabolic profiling of H. crispum aerial parts using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed the presence of different metabolites with various functional groups. Meanwhile, High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) revealed the presence of three main peaks assigned to myricetin, quercetin, and kaempferol. In vivo, antiulcer activity results showed that the disease control group displayed five tiny ulcers less than 2 mm in diameter in addition to two hemorrhagic streaks. However, in the standard control group, only one small ulcer was visible for the total methanol extract. Gastric tissues and contents were evaluated to determine many parameters such as ulcer score, ulcer index, percentage inhibition of ulcer, gastric pH, gastric juice volume, and acidity. Results were endorsed by histopathological evaluation; gastric pH and mucus content were significantly increased, but gastric juice volume was significantly decreased. All fractions showed a significant decrease in ulcer index and % inhibition except the n-hexane fraction, whose results were insignificant compared to the disease control group. Thus, it was concluded that H. crispum shows an antiulcer effect by decreasing gastric juice volume and acidity, whereas gastric pH and mucus contents were increased that is attributed to the synergistic action of its detected polyphenolic compounds.

Effects of complex extracts of traditional Chinese herbs on gastric mucosal injury in rats and potential underlying mechanism

Five complex extracts (CEs) of seven Chinese herbs (Astragalus, Poria cocos, Alpinia officinarum Hance, Radix Puerariae, Ginseng, Licorice, Hericium erinaceus) were prepared by hot water extraction and evaluated for their effect on gastric ulcer in rats. In rats with acetic acid‐induced chronic gastric ulcer, gross and microscopic appearance showed that gastric mucosal injury index and lesion inhibition rate were improved after CEs gavage for 21 days. Pretreatment with CEs for 21 days in rats with acute gastric ulcer could also improve the gastric mucosal injury by ethanol. CE1, CE4, and CE5 showed more obvious effect in two models. The cell experiments results showed that CE1, CE4, and CE5 effectively inhibited Wnt signaling activity. Thus, they could protect gastric mucosa through inhibiting Wnt signaling pathway. These results indicated that CE1, CE4, and CE5 had significant protective effects on gastric mucosal injury by inhibiting Wnt signalling pathway and could be developed into safe functional products.

Acute and sub acute toxicity study on Sangu parpam

Peptic ulcer is described in the siddha system of medicinal classification of 4448 diseases. Information on the use of Sangu Parpam in treating peptic ulcer is known. Therefore, it is of interest to document the acute and sub acute toxicity analysis on Sangu parpam in this regard.

Plants against Helicobacter pylori to combat resistance: An ethnopharmacological review

Worldwide, Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is regarded as the major etiological agent of peptic ulcer and gastric carcinoma. Claiming about 50 percent of the world population is infected with H. pylori while therapies for its eradication have failed because of many reasons including the acquired resistance against its antibiotics. Hence, the need to find new anti-H.pylori medications has become a hotspot with the urge of searching for alternative, more potent and safer inhibitors. In the recent drug technology scenario, medicinal plants are suggested as repositories for novel synthetic substances. Hitherto, is considered as ecofriendly, simple, more secure, easy, quick, and less toxic traditional treatment technique. This review is to highlight the anti-H. pylori medicinal plants, secondary metabolites and their mode of action with the aim of documenting such plants before they are effected by cultures and traditions that is expected as necessity.

Spinasterol, 22,23-Dihydrospinasterol and Fernenol from Citrullus Colocynthis L. with Aphicidal Activity against Cabbage Aphid Brevicoryne Brassicae L

Brevicoryne brassicae is a problematic pest in cabbage and other field crops. Synthetic pesticides are used to control this pest, but they are injurious for human health and the environment. The present study aimed to purify and identify the active compounds from Citrullus colocynthis leaves with an appraisal of their efficacy against B. brassicae. Separation and purification were performed via different chromatographic techniques. Molecular analysis and chemical structures were recognized by mass spectrum (MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), respectively. Moreover, in vitro and in vivo aphicidal activity was assessed using various concentrations, i.e., 6.25, 12.5, 25 and 50 µg/mL at 12, 24, 48 and 72 h exposure. The outcome shows that mass spectrum analyses of the purified compounds suggested the molecular formulae are C₃₀H₅₀O and C₂₉H₅₀O, C₂₉H₄₈O. The compounds were characterized as fernenol and a mixture of spinasterol, 22,23-dihydrospinasterol by ¹H-NMR and ¹³C-NMR spectrum analysis. The toxicity results showed that the mixture of spinasterol and 22,23-dihydrospinasterol showed LC₅₀ values of 32.36, 44.49 and 37.50 µg/mL by contact, residual and greenhouse assay at 72 h exposure, respectively. In contrast, fernenol recorded LC₅₀ values as 47.99, 57.46 and 58.67 µg/mL, respectively. On the other hand, spinasterol, 22,23-dihydrospinasterol showed the highest mortality, i.e., 66.67%, 53.33% and 60% while, 30%, 23.33% and 25% mortality was recorded by fernenol after 72 h at 50 µg/mL by contact, residual and greenhouse assay, respectively. This study suggests that spinasterol, 22,23-dihydrospinasterol are more effective against B. brassicae which may be introduced as an effective and suitable substitute of synthetic chemical pesticides.

Characterization and Cytotoxicity Assessment of the Lipophilic Fractions of Different Morphological Parts of Acacia dealbata

Acacia dealbata biomass, either from forest exploitation or from the management of invasive species, can be a strategic topic, namely as a source of high-value compounds. In this sense, the present study aimed at the detailed characterization of the lipophilic components of different morphological parts of A. dealbata and the evaluation of their cytotoxicity in cells representative of different mammals’ tissues. The chemical composition of lipophilic extracts from A. dealbata bark, wood and leaves was evaluated using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Terpenic compounds (representing 50.2%–68.4% of the total bark and leaves extracts, respectively) and sterols (60.5% of the total wood extract) were the main components of these extracts. Other constituents, such as fatty acids, long-chain aliphatic alcohols, monoglycerides, and aromatic compounds were also detected in the studied extracts. All the extracts showed low or no cytotoxicity in the different cells tested, demonstrating their safety profile and highlighting their potential to be used in nutraceutical or pharmaceutical applications. This study is therefore an important contribution to the valorization of A. dealbata, demonstrating the potential of this species as a source of high value lipophilic compounds.

Therapeutic efficacy of the root tubers of Aconitum heterophyllum and its substitute Cyperus rotundus in the amelioration of pylorus ligation induced ulcerogenic and oxidative damage in rats

The phenomenal increase in the demand of herbal drugs, leads to over exploitation of medicinal plants which ultimately resulted in the scarcity and endangerment of many valuable plant species. On observing the difficulties in procuring genuine herbal drugs arose the concept of substitution which was documented in many classical Ayurvedic texts. The present study made a comparative evaluation of the gastroprotective potential of hydroalcoholic extracts of an original drug Aconitum heterophyllum (HAAH) and its substitute Cyperus rotundus (HACR) in the treatment of gastric ulcer under in vivo experimental conditions. The anti-ulcer property of the plant extracts was investigated against pylorus ligation induced ulcer in Wistar albino rats. The results confirmed that both A. heterophyllum and C. rotundus deliver comparable significant protection against gastric ulcer, indicated by a decrease in the free and total acidity, volume of gastric content, total proteins and increase in pH of gastric content, total carbohydrates and total carbohydrates to total proteins ratio. The observed anti-ulcer potential of both the drugs is attributed mainly to prevention of the generation of damaging free radical cascades and oxidant radical release.

Protective effect of the solvent extracts of Portulacca oleracea against acidified ethanol induced gastric ulcer in rabbits

Portulacca oleracea L. has been used for treatment of different ailments. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness and possible mechanism of action involved in the anti gastric ulcerogenic effect of Portulacca oleracea. Methanolic extract & subsequent fractions (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) of Portulacca oleracea (P. oleracea) were administered orally to experimental rabbits one hour before oral administration of HCl/ethanol (40:60). Anti gastric ulcerogenic potential of P. oleracea was evaluated by assessment of gastric pH, pepsin, free acidity, ulcer index, mucus content and total acidity. For the investigation of possible mechanism of action malondialdehyde (MDA), histamine, and H + K + ATPase content were determined in the stomach homogenate. Histopathological study of stomach tissue was carried out by H&E dye. Ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) of P. oleracea was the most potent fraction among all fractions that exhibited efficient protection against acidified ethanol mediated gastric-ulcer. The ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) significantly increased the pH of gastric juice, while pepsin and histamine was observed to decrease significantly in comparison to acidified ethanol group (***p ≤ 0.001). The EAF showed moderately H + K + ATPase inhibitory activity. Moreover, it was also observed that EAF decreased the malondialdehyde (MDA) level in the stomach tissue homogenate showing antioxidant effect. Histopathological studies showed that among the tested fractions, EAF significantly prevented acidified ethanol induced gastric mucosal damage. These results showed that mechanism of anti gastric ulcerogenic potential of P. oleracea could be associated with the reduction in histamine level, H + K + ATPase inhibition and reduced MDA level.

Study of the mechanism of anti-ulcer effects of virgin coconut oil on gastric ulcer-induced rat model

INTRODUCTION

This study aims to evaluate the gastro-protective effects of virgin coconut oil (VCO) on different ulcer models as compared to the standard drug (omeprazole).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Three groups of rats (6 rats per group for each ulcer model) were pre-treated with distilled water for the negative control group, 30 mg/kg of omeprazole for the positive control group and VCO (2 ml per rat) for the treatment group. Animals were pre-treated for 7 days and ulcers were induced with cold restraint stress, piroxicam, ethanol and pylorus ligation. On day eight, animals were sacrificed and ulcer scores were determined based on macroscopic evaluation. The gastric volume, pH, total acidity and mucus content were measured in the pylorus-ligated model. The levels of antioxidants were determined from the gastric tissue homogenates.

RESULTS

Virgin coconut oil significantly (p < 0.001) inhibited the ulceration caused by different inducers. The percentage of inhibition for the VCO-treated group was 78.3%, 84.7%, 72.7% and 73.1%, while for the omeprazole-treated group it was 60.8%, 61.5%, 59% and 53.8% in cold restraint stress, ethanol, piroxicam and pylorus-ligated ulcer models, respectively. Virgin coconut oil significantly (p < 0.001) inhibited gastric juice volume and total acidity for VCO and omeprazole treated groups as compared to the non-treated negative control group. Moreover, VCO and omeprazole caused a significant (p < 0.001) increase of gastric mucus content and pH. Virgin coconut oil also proved to have significantly increased glutathione (GSH) and nitrite levels, whereas the levels of SOD, GP, MDA and CAT were significantly (p < 0.001) reduced by VCO relative to the control group. Virgin coconut oil also significantly (p < 0.001) increased the level of prostaglandin in rat tissue homogenate, similar to the omeprazole treated group.

CONCLUSIONS

Virgin coconut oil shows a possible association with antioxidant properties to control the regulation of prostaglandin synthesis and protect against reactive oxygen species damage.

Anti-ulcer effect of Gallarhois extract with anti-oxidant activity in an ICR model of ethanol/hydrochloride acid-induced gastric injury

Gallarhois (GR) is a traditional oriental herbal medicine with various pharmacological effects; however, its effect on gastric ulcer has not been previously explored. We firstly investigated the component and antioxidant activity of GR extract (EtGR) by HPLC analysis and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. The results showed that EtGR consisted of gallotannin (68.7%), gallic acid (27.2%) and methyl gallate (4.1%) and that it had a high antioxidant value (IC50 value; 1.93 μg/mL). To evaluate the possible anti-gastric ulcer potential of EtGR, we investigated the effects of EtGR in the model of ethanol/hydrochloric acid (EtOH/HCl)-induced gastric ulcer. Gross and histological gastric lesions, biochemical and gene expression parameters were taken into consideration. The results showed that EtOH/HCl treatment produced mucosal injuries with morphological and histological damage, whereas EtGR co-treatment reduced the gastric injuries. EtGR treatment also decreased the contents of malonaldehyde (MDA) activity relative to the vehicle group. Moreover, EtGR decreased the levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression. Finally, EtGR did not induce any specific toxicity in the livers or kidneys of the EtOH/HCl-induced gastric ulcer model. These results suggest that EtGR had stronger antioxidant activity and could be a new useful natural drug for gastroprotection against gastric ulcer. Moreover, these findings provide a scientific basis for the development of drugs from traditional oriental herbal medicines.

Anti-ulcer and anti-Helicobacter pylori potentials of the ethyl acetate fraction of Physalis alkekengi L. var. franchetii (Solanaceae) in rodent

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Physalis alkekengi L. var. franchetii (Solanaceae) has been widely used in Chinese folk medicine due to its wide distribution throughout the country, for the treatment of a wide range of diseases including heat and cold, sore throat, fever, fungal infection, inflammation, toothache, rheumatism, burn, analgesic, ulcer and urinary diseases. However, the effect of P. alkekengi var. franchetii on ulcer and Helicobacter pylori infection has not been reported to date.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was designed to investigate the anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, anti-Helicobacter pylori and analgesic properties of ethyl acetate fraction of the crude aqueous methanolic extract from the aerial parts of the plant P. alkekengi L. var. franchetii in rodents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Acute toxicity of the crude extract of P. alkekengi L. var. franchetii (PAF) was evaluated in rats. The petroleum ether fraction (PEF), butanol fraction (BF), ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) and aqueous fraction (AF) of crude aqueous methanolic extract from PAF were screened for anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer potential at doses of 100, 250 and 500mg/kg (p.o.), using carrageenin-induced hind paw edema and ethanol-induced gastric lesions test in rats. In vitro anti-Helicobacter pylori activity of EAF was assayed subsequently. In addition, three doses of EAF were evaluated for analgesic activity using hot plate and writhing tests, respectively. Finally, we performed a phytochemical analysis of EAF.

RESULTS

Four fractions of crude extract from PAF significantly reduced the paw volume in carrageenin-induced hind paw edema model at different doses (100, 250 and 500mg/kg, p.o.). The fraction EAF at a dose of 500mg/kg exhibited the highest (75.92%) (0.150 ± 0.045***, ***p < 0.001) anti-inflammatory potential, which is similar to indomethacin (***P < 0.001)（0.120 ± 0.014***, 80.74% inhibition of inflammation） at 5mg/kg. Pretreatment with EAF (500mg/kg, p.o.) significantly reduced the intensity of gastric mucosal damage and showed higher gastroprotective activity (90.6%) when compared to the standard drug famotidine (84.6%). In addition, EAF fraction also showed a moderate (P < 0.05) anti-Helicobacter pylori activity with a minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) of 500μg/ml. Furthermore, pain sensation was effectively inhibited at 500mg/kg, p.o. of EAF as manifested by an increase (p < 0.001) of latency time in hot plate from 30 to 90min and a decrease (p < 0.001) in count of writhing induced by acetic acid. By HPLC, we determined some steroid, terpenoid and flavonoids (four compounds): kaempferol, quercetin, Blumenol A and physalindicanols A, which were isolated from the ethyl acetate fraction and identified using ¹H NMR and ¹³C NMR spectra analysis.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated the anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, anti-Helicobacter pylori and analgesic properties of EAF of the crude extract from PAF thus justifying its traditional usage.

Chemical and Biological Research on Herbal Medicines Rich in Xanthones

Xanthones, as some of the most active components and widely distributed in various herb medicines, have drawn more and more attention in recent years. So far, 168 species of herbal plants belong to 58 genera, 24 families have been reported to contain xanthones. Among them, Calophyllum, Cratoxylum, Cudrania, Garcinia, Gentiana, Hypericum and Swertia genera are plant resources with great development prospect. This paper summarizes the plant resources, bioactivity and the structure-activity relationships (SARs) of xanthones from references published over the last few decades, which may be useful for new drug research and development on xanthones.

Antiproliferative activity of spinasterol isolated of Stegnosperma halimifolium (Benth, 1844)

Cancer is the major cause of death in the world, representing a significant public health problem. Plants have been shown as a great source of secondary metabolites with anticancer activity. The aim of this work was evaluated the antiproliferative activity of the methanolic extracts, chemical fractions and the compound spinasterol isolated of medicinal plant Stegnosperma halimifolium. The methanolic extracts of stem, leaf and stem/leaf was obtained by maceration. The methanolic extract of stem was purified by successive extractions with solvents as n-hexane, ethyl acetate and ethanol. The n-hexane fraction was separated by column chromatographic and monitored by thin layer chromatographic. The compound spinasterol was characterized by ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR and Mass Spectrometry. Methanolic extracts, chemical, chromatographic fractions and spinasterol was evaluated against RAW 264.7, M12.C3.F6, PC-3, LS-180, A549 and HeLa cancer cell lines by the standardized method MTT for determinate the antiproliferative activity. Methanolic extract of stem shown the better antiproliferative activity against the murine macrophage cancer cell line RAW 264.7. n-Hexane chemical fraction shown antiproliferative activity against human alveolar cancer cell line A549 and RAW 264.7. Was isolated and characterized a compound by NMR ¹H and ¹³C, revealing the presence of sterol spinasterol. Spinasterol shown to have antiproliferative activity against cervical cancer cell line HeLa and RAW 264.7, indicating that spinasterol can be a responsible compound of antiproliferative activity found in the methanolic extract of Stegnosperma halimifolium.

A novel method for synthesis of α-spinasterol and its antibacterial activities in combination with ceftiofur

In this study, we designed a novel method of the synthesis of α-spinasterol from commercially available stigmasterol and explored the combinational effect of the α-spinasterol with ceftiofur in vitro against S. pullorum cvcc533, S. pneumoniae CAU0070, E. coli, and S. aureus. α-Spinasterol was obtained by a key reaction of Bamford-Stevens reaction with a desirable yield for five steps. The combination of α-spinasterol and ceftiofur showed stronger synergetic effect against the four pathogenic strains compared with that of stigmasterol and ceftiofur alone. In time-kill analyses, at concentrations above the MICs, ceftiofur in combination with α-spinasterol exhibited time-dependency and concentration-dependency comparing to time dependency with ceftiofur alone. We conclude that the combination usage of α-spinasterol and ceftiofur is an effective and promising strategy against the four pathogenic bacterial strains in vitro.

Diminazene aceturate, an angiotensin-converting enzyme II activator, prevents gastric mucosal damage in mice: Role of the angiotensin-(1-7)/Mas receptor axis

The angiotensin (Ang) II converting enzyme (ACE II) pathway has recently been shown to be associated with several beneficial effects in various organisms, including gastroprotection. ACE II is responsible for converting Ang II into an active peptide, Ang-(1-7), which in turn binds the Mas receptor. Recent studies have shown that diminazene aceturate (Dize) a trypanocidal used in animals, activates ACE II. Thus, in this study, we aimed to evaluate the gastroprotective effects of Dize via the ACE II/Ang-(1-7)/Mas receptor pathway against gastric lesions induced by ethanol and acetic acid in mice. The results showed that Dize could promote gastric protection via several mechanisms, including increased levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory factors (e.g., decreasing tumor necrosis factor and interleukin-6 expression and reducing myeloperoxidase activity), maturation of collagen fibers, and promotion of re-epithelialization and regeneration of gastric tissue in different injury models. Thus, Dize represents a novel potential gastroprotective agent.

Phytochemical Analysis and Gastroprotective Activity of the Root Bark from Maytenus robusta

The present work evaluated the chemical composition and antiulcerogenic potential of the crude extract, fractions and pure compounds isolated of roots barks from Maytenus robusta Reiss, using different pharmacological models in mice. 3,12-Dioxofriedelane (1) and 11-hydroxylup-20 (29)-en-3-one (2) were isolated from the n-hexane fraction, and mayteine (3) and 3,7-dioxofriedelane (4) from the dichloromethane fraction. The crude extract (50, 259, 500 mg/kg), all the fractions (250 mg/kg) and cimetidine (100 mg/kg) significantly reduced the lesion index, total lesion area, and percentage of lesions, in comparison with the control group ( p< 0.05), by ethanol and NSAID-induced ulcer models. All the isolated compounds also presented significant pharmacological effects at 30 mg/kg. These results show that the root bark of M. robusta may be a promising source of molecules with applicability in the treatment of gastric disorders.

Anti-Ulcerogenic Properties of Lycium chinense Mill Extracts against Ethanol-Induced Acute Gastric Lesion in Animal Models and Its Active Constituents

The objective of this study was to explore the gastroprotective properties of the aerial part of Lycium chinense Mill (LCA) against ethanol-induced gastric mucosa lesions in mice models. Administration of LCA at doses of 50, 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight prior to ethanol consumption dose dependently inhibited gastric ulcers. The gastric mucosal injury was analyzed by gastric juice acidity, glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), myeloperoxidase (MPO) activities. Furthermore, the levels of the inflammatory mediators, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in serum were also analyzed using ELISA. Pathological changes were also observed with the aid of hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Our results indicated that LCA significantly reduced the levels of MPO, MDA and increased SOD and GSH activities. Furthermore, LCA also significantly inhibited the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β in the serum of ulcerated mice in a dose dependent manner. Immunohistological analysis indicated that LCA also significantly attenuated the overexpression of nuclear factor-κB in pretreated mice models. This findings suggests Lycium chinense Mill possesses gastroprotective properties against ethanol-induced gastric injury and could be a possible therapeutic intervention in the treatment and management of gastric ulcers.

Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities with gastroprotective effect of semi-purified fractions and isolation of pure compounds from Mediterranean gorgonian Eunicella singularis

OBJECTIVE

To explore anti-inflammatory activities of organic extract and its semi-purified fractions (ethanol, acetone, methanol/dichloromethane) from the Mediterranean gorgonian Eunicella singularis.

METHODS

The anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities were evaluated, using the carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model and the acetic acid writhing test in mice. The gastroprotective activity was determined using HCl/EtOH induced gastric ulcers in rats. The purification and structure elucidation of compound(s) from the more effective fraction were determined by chromatographic and spectroscopic methods and in comparison with data reported in the literature.

RESULTS

The fraction F-EtOH showed an important anti-inflammatory activity associated with significant analgesic and gastroprotective properties. The purification and structure elucidation of compound(s) from this fraction lead to the identification of one diterpenoid and four sterols.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggested that components from the active fraction can be used to treat various anti-inflammatory diseases.

Comparison of the anti-ulcer activity between the crude and bran-processed Atractylodes lancea in the rat model of gastric ulcer induced by acetic acid

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The rhizome of Atractylodes lancea (AL, Compositae, Chinese name: Cangzhu; Japanese name: Sou-ju-tsu) has been used traditionally for the treatment of various diseases such as digestive disorders, rheumatic diseases, and influenza in China, Korea and Japan. The crude AL and AL bran-processed are both listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. However, the differences between the effects of the crude and AL bran-processed on gastric ulcer were poorly understood, and the mechanisms for the treatment of gastric ulcer were not clear. This study aimed at comparing the anti-ulcer effects between the crude AL and AL processed in acetic acid induced model in rats and evaluating the mechanisms of action involved in the anti-ulcer properties of AL.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The model of gastric ulcer was imitated by acetic acid in rats, and AL was gavaged. The serum and gastric tissues were collected. The levels of epidermal growth factor (EGF), trefoil factor2 (TFF2), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 6, 8 (IL-6, 8) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in serum and gastric tissues were determined by the double-antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the mRNA expressions of EGF, TFF2, TNF-α, and IL-8 in stomach were analyzed by quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Meanwhile, histopathological changes were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) stain. The protein expressions of EGF, TFF2, TNF-α, and IL-8 were examined by immunohistochemistry in stomach.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that the damage of gastric tissue was obviously alleviated and the productions of TNF-α, IL-8, IL-6, and PGE2 and the mRNA expressions of TNF-α, and IL-8 were notably inhibited. Furthermore, the productions of EGF and TFF2 and the mRNA expressions of EGF and TFF2 were significantly stimulated by both crude AL and AL processed in a dose-dependent manner. Compared with the crude AL, the processed AL was more effective.

CONCLUSION

The AL processed had more satisfactory effects in treatment of gastric-ulcer than the crude AL. The anti-ulcer effects of AL could be attributed to the anti-inflammatory properties via down-regulating TNF-α, IL-8, IL-6 and PGE2 and to the gastroprotective effects via up-regulating EGF and TFF2.

Antiulcer activities of the hydroethanolic extract of Sedum dendroideum Moc et Sessé ex DC. (balsam)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The leaves of Sedum dendroideum, commonly known as balsam, have long been employed for the treatment of gastric ulcers. The aim of study was to evaluate the antiulcer activity and toxicological properties of Sedum dendroideum using induced gastric ulcer models in Wistar rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The hydroethanolic extract of Sedum dendroideum (ESD) was analyzed using an acute ulcer model using ethanol and indomethacin and a chronic ulcer model using acetic acid. The toxicity was evaluated with acute and subacute toxicity tests. The gastric secretion was assessed by the performance of pyloric ligation and the gastric volume, pH, and hydrogen ion concentration. The mechanism of the gastroprotective activity of ESD through the involvement of nitric oxide and sulfhydryl compounds was assessed. Moreover, a phytochemical screening and antioxidant assays were performed.

RESULTS

No signs of toxicity were observed. In the ethanol-induced ulceration model, ESD doses of 25, 50, and 100mg/kg significantly reduced the gastric lesions by 66.03%, 71.11%, and 70.82%, respectively. In the indomethacin-induced ulceration model, ESD doses of 25, 50, and 100mg/kg significantly reduced the gastric lesions by 89.88%, 94.36%, and 90.64%, respectively. Treatment with ESD at 50mg/kg and cimetidine at 200mg/kg significantly reduced acetic acid-induced ulcerations and resulted in 92.99% and 77.16% cure, respectively. ESD doses of 25, 50, and 100mg/kg inhibited oxidation by 79.7%, 82.4%, and 82.3%, respectively. The antiulcer activity of ESD may involve sulfhydryl compounds, considering that this activity was inhibited in the animals treated with sulfhydryl compound blockers. Furthermore, ESD increased mucus secretion and reduced gastric acidity and volume.

CONCLUSIONS

The leaf extract of Sedum dendroideum exhibited gastroprotective activity, potentially due to sulfhydryl compounds and antioxidant activity. Therefore, other studies are warranted to elucidate the antiulcer properties of these compounds.

A new xanthone from Moutabea guianensis Aubl

The ethyl acetate extract of the roots of Moutabea guianensis gave 1,6-dihydroxy-4,7,8-trimethoxy-9H-xanthen-9-one (1), a new xanthone. The isolation was accomplished by column chromatography on silica gel and the structural elucidation of this compound was established by spectroscopic analyses including 1D and 2D NMR and HRESIMS.

Anti-ulcer activity of essential oil constituents

Essential oils have attracted considerable worldwide attention over the last few decades. These natural products have wide-ranging pharmacological activities and biotechnological applications. Faced with the need to find new anti-ulcer agents and the great effort on the development of drugs for the treatment of ulcers, in this review, the anti-ulcer activities of 21 bioactive compounds found in essential oils are discussed.

α-Spinasterol from Melandrium firmum attenuates benign prostatic hyperplasia in a rat model

Spinasterol, a biologically active compound, exhibits a number of pharmacological activities, including antitumor, antiulcerogenic and anticarcinogenic activity, and originates from the aerial parts of Aster scaber Thunb (Asteraceae). The present study investigated whether α-spinasterol isolated from Melandrium firmum Rohrbach could prevent benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) induced by testosterone propionate (TP) in rats. Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups of eight rats following castration. A negative control group received subcutaneous injections of corn oil. Treatments were administered orally 1 h prior to TP injection. All the rats were sacrificed at the scheduled termination time and their prostates were removed, cleaned and weighed. The prostate size ratio (prostate weight/rat body weight) was then calculated. Additional histopathological examinations were conducted, and the levels of TP and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the serum and prostate were measured. TP significantly increased the prostate size ratio (P<0.01), and DHT and testosterone levels in the serum and prostate. The TP-induced increase was significantly inhibited in α-spinasterol-treated rats when compared with the negative controls (P<0.05). In addition, histopathological examination demonstrated that α-spinasterol treatment suppressed TP-induced prostatic hyperplasia. It is concluded that α-spinasterol can prevent TP-induced prostatic hyperplasia and may be beneficial in the management of BPH.

Gastric antisecretory and cytoprotective effects of hydroalcoholic extracts of Plumeria alba Linn. leaves in rats

OBJECTIVE

This study was conducted to evaluate the antiulcerogenic property of hydroalcoholic extract obtained from the leaves of Plumeria alba Linn.

METHODS

Antiulcer assays were performed using the protocols of ulcer induced by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, ethanol and pylorus ligation. The hydroalcoholic extract (HAPA), and various fractions of HAPA like, n-hexane extract (HPA), ethyl acetate extract (EAPA) and n-butanol extract (BPA) were administered at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg for HAPA and 100 and 200 mg/kg for fractions of extracts. Parameters of gastric secretion (volume, pH, total protein, and free and total acidity) were determined by the pylorus ligation model. Parameters like aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase were also determined in ethanol-induced ulcer model. To determine the mechanism of action, role of nitric oxide was also evaluated.

RESULTS

EAPA and BPA (100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o.) showed gastric ulcer-healing effect in indomethacin-induced ulcer model, while HAPA (200 mg/kg) and HPA showed no significant antiulcer effect. Both EAPA and BPA showed gastric cytoprotective effect in ethanol-induced gastric ulcer and inhibited gastric secretion in pylorus-ligated rats.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study show that some hydroalcoholic extract of Plumeria alba L. displays antiulcer activity, as demonstrated by the significant inhibition of ulcer formation induced by different models, which is consistent with the literature report in folk medicine.

Hyptis suaveolens (L.) Poit (Lamiaceae), a medicinal plant protects the stomach against several gastric ulcer models

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hyptis suaveolens is used by the traditional population in several parts of the world to treat inflammation, gastric ulcer and infection and is used as a crude drug to relieve symptoms related with gastric ulcer or gastritis in northeaster and central region of Brazil.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

the standardized ethanolic extract (Hs-EtOHE) and hexanic fraction (Hs-HexF) of Hyptis suaveolens (62,5, 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg) was evaluated in several models of acute gastric ulcers. The participation of NO was evaluated by pretreatment with L-NAME and non-protein sulfyhydryls by NEM in the gastroprotective effect.

RESULTS

Hs-EtOHE and Hs-HexF markedly reduced the gastric lesions induced by all ulcerogenic agents (HCl/ethanol, ethanol, NSAIDs and hypothermic restraint-stress). Gastric ulcerations were exacerbated by administration of NEM suggesting that the gastroprotective mechanism of action of Hs-EtOHE and Hs-HexF involves sulfhydryl groups.

CONCLUSION

Ours results show that an extract of Hyptis suaveolens, administered orally to rodents, present gastro protective activity in different models of acute of gastric ulcer and give some support to the reported claims on the use of this plant as a gastro protective agent.

Role of gastric mucus secretion, oxinitrergic system and sulfhydryl groups on the gastroprotection elicited by Polygala cyparissias (Polygalaceae) in mice

Objectives

This study has aimed to assess the mechanisms of action for the gastroprotective effect of the acetone extract (PCAE) and methanol fraction (PCMF) of Polygala cyparissias, as well as to evaluate the activity of 1,3,6,8-tetrahydroxy-2,7-dimethoxyxanthone (1), 1,7-dihydroxy-2,3-dimethoxyxanthone (2) and astragalin (3).

Methods

Gastric secretion and mucus content were determined by pylorus ligation in mice. Nitric oxide (NO) and sulfhydryl group participation were observed by the pretreatment of mice with L-NAME or NEM. Acute ulcer was induced by ethanol/HCl and chronic ulcer by acetic acid. Anti-Helicobacter pylori activity was evaluated by the agar solid dilution assay.

Key findings

Neither PCAE nor PCMF had the ability to reduce H+ concentration. However, both of them enhanced mucus secretion. PCAE demonstrated its gastroprotection in a NO-dependent manner, while PCMF exerted the activity depending on the sulfhydryl group. In chronic ulcer, the curative ratios for the PCAE and PCMF were 67.5 and 58.4%, respectively. No effect over H. pylori was detected. Compounds 1, 2 and 3 were able to reduce lesions in the order of 79.6, 73.8 and 67.6%, respectively.

Conclusions

The data suggested that PCAE and PCMF displayed antiulcer activity due to different mechanisms and with the participation of phenolic compounds obtained from the plant.

Antiulcerogenic activity of chlorogenic acid in different models of gastric ulcer

Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is found in many foods, including coffee, berries, potatoes, carrots, wine, apples, and various herbs, and has anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antitumoral actions. The CGA is well absorbed orally, and its effects on gastric ulcer have not been previously reported. The present manuscript evaluated the effect of oral administration of CGA on ethanol/HCl (Et/HCl) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced gastric ulcer model in male Swiss mice. Animals were pretreated with 0.2 % carboxymethylcellulose (vehicle, p.o.), omeprazole (positive control, 30 mg/kg, p.o.), carbenoxolone (antioxidant positive control, 100 mg/kg, p.o.), or CGA (5, 25, or 50 mg/kg, p.o.). One hour later, the gastric ulcer was induced by injecting Et/HCl solution (100 μL/10 g body weight; Et 60 % + HCl 0.03 M) or piroxicam (100 mg/kg, p.o). After another hour or 4 h later, gastric tissues were collected from Et/HCl or piroxicam-treated animals, respectively, to evaluate the size of the lesion, histological alterations, secretion of gastric acid, neutrophil migration, oxidative/antioxidative enzymes, markers of lipid peroxidation, or concentrations of inflammatory mediators. CGA treatment had a gastroprotective effect in both models, reducing the percentage of lesioned area. CGA treatment did not alter the secretion of gastric action but inhibited neutrophil migration and restored the levels of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in mice treated with Et/HCl. Additionally, CGA treatment blocked the increase of tumor necrosis factor alpha and leukotriene B4 but did not restore the reduced prostaglandin levels in the NSAID-induced ulcer. Together, the data presented herein show that CGA may be a suitable natural compound for the prevention and treatment of gastric lesions caused by a different etiology.

Gastroprotective activity of the ethanolic extract and hexane phase of Combretum duarteanum Cambess. (Combretaceae)

Combretum duarteanum Cambess. is found in South America, particularly in Bolivia, Paraguay, and Brazil. In Paraiba state (Brazil), the species usually occurs in the Caatinga biome. It is popularly known as mofumbo, cipiúba, or cipaúba. This work aims to evaluate the gastroprotective activity and the cytoprotective mechanisms of the ethanolic extract (Cd-EtOHE) and hexane phase (Cd-HexP) obtained from the leaves of C. duarteanum. Doses at 62.5, 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg of Cd-EtOHE and Cd-HexP were tested in models of gastric ulcers induced by HCl/ethanol, absolute ethanol, stress, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and pylorus ligation in male rats or mice. Cd-EtOHE and Cd-HexP significantly reduced gastric injuries induced in all models. Cd-EtOHE and Cd-HexP did not alter gastric juice parameters such as pH, [H(+)], or volume after pylorus ligation. Cytoprotective mechanisms of Cd-EtOHE and Cd-HexP in relation to mucus, nitric oxide (NO), and sulfhydryl (SH) groups were evaluated. Neither product increased the mucus, and they both showed dependence on NO and SH groups to prevent gastric ulcer. Both Cd-EtOHE and Cd-HexP demonstrated gastroprotective activity.

Antiulcerogenic effect of Croton urucurana Baillon bark

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Croton urucurana (Euphorbiaceae) bark is used to treat gastric ulcers. However, to our knowledge, no study has been conducted to confirm this therapeutic property.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the antiulcerogenic effect and any possible toxic effects of Croton urucurana bark in an induced gastric ulcer model in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The preventive and healing properties of Croton urucurana bark methanol extract (CUE) were evaluated in experimental models of acute (ethanol and indomethacin) and chronic (acetic acid) gastric ulcers. The gastric juice and mucous were evaluated using the pylorus ligation model, while the gastroprotective action of sulphydryl compounds and nitric oxide were analysed using the ethanol model. The toxicity was evaluated with acute and subacute toxicity tests.

RESULTS

No signs of toxicity were observed in the parameters analysed. All of the CUE doses tested (50, 100 and 250mg/kg) significantly reduced the gastric lesions by 70.25, 95.40 and 98.71%, respectively. Treatment with 30mg/kg lansoprazole (positive control) inhibited 82.58% of the gastric lesions. In the indomethacin model, the 50, 100 and 250mg/kg doses of CUE significantly reduced gastric damage by 67.85, 82.50 and 71.01%, respectively, and the positive control, cimetidine (200mg/kg), reduced gastric damage by 91.02%. The CUE (100mg/kg) and cimetidine (200mg/kg) treatments significantly reduced the ulcerative pathology induced by acetic acid, promoting 81.55 and 72.62% healing, respectively. Nitric oxide did not change the cytoprotection generated by CUE. However, the antiulcerogenic activity of CUE appears to involve sulphydryl compounds because CUE activity was inhibited in animals receiving a sulphydryl compound blocker. In addition, CUE exhibited systemic effects, increasing mucous production and decreasing gastric acidity.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study shows that Croton urucurana bark exerts gastroprotective activity in rats without causing toxicity. This effect appears to involve sulphydryl compounds, increasing mucus production and reducing gastric acidity.

Hymenaea stigonocarpa Mart. ex Hayne: a Brazilian medicinal plant with gastric and duodenal anti-ulcer and antidiarrheal effects in experimental rodent models

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hymenaea stigonocarpa Mart. ex Hayne (Fabaceae) is a medicinal species commonly found in the Brazilian savannah. The stem bark of this medicinal plant, popularly known as "jatobá-do-cerrado", is widely used in tea form to treat gastric pain, ulcers, diarrhoea and inflammation, whereas its fruits pulp is edible.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study was to investigate the antidiarrheal and anti-ulcer effects of a methanolic extract derived from the stem bark (MHs) and diet with fruit pulp of H. stigonocarpa.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The antidiarrheal action of MHs was measured against the intestinal motility and diarrhoea induced by castor oil in mice. The preventive action of MHs (50, 100, 150 and 200mg/Kg, by oral route (p.o.)) against peptic ulcers was evaluated in experimental rodent models challenged with absolute ethanol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) (200mg/Kg, p.o.) and cysteamine (200mg/Kg, p.o.). The main anti-ulcer mechanisms of action of MHs were analysed as follows: evaluation of the gastric juice parameters, assessment of mucus adherence to the gastric wall, determination of the role of nitric oxide (NO) and sulfhydryl compounds (SH), glutathione (GSH) levels and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. The healing effects from MHs (200mg/Kg) and diet with fruit pulp (10%) against gastric and duodenal ulcers induced by acetic acid were also evaluated by treating rats over 7 or 14 consecutive days of treatment.

RESULTS

The phytochemical profile of MHs and fruit pulp indicated the presence of phenolic compounds (mainly flavonoids and condensed tannins). MHs (200mg/Kg, p.o.) displayed an antidiarrheal effect and were able to protect gastric mucosa against absolute ethanol (68% protection) and also against the injurious effect of NSAIDs (86% protection) when compared to the group treated with vehicle. These results were accompanied by the prevention of GSH depletion and an inhibition of MPO activity when compared to animals treated with vehicle (P<0.05). MHs markedly protected duodenal mucosa against injuries caused by cysteamine (98%) and also against I/R induced gastric ulceration (80%) when compared to the group treated with vehicle. Furthermore, MHs also prevented the GSH depletion of gastric mucosa relative to the control group treated with vehicle. NO appeared to be involved in this gastroprotective effect. MHs and diet with fruit pulp clearly demonstrated gastric healing actions after treatment for 7 (MHs - 53% inhibition) or 14 days (MHs - 60% inhibition and fruit pulp - 61% inhibition). Treatment with diet with fruit pulp for 7 days demonstrates a significant duodenal healing effect (71% inhibition) without any signs of toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

MHs clearly demonstrate antidiarrheal, gastroprotective and cicatrising effects in experimental gastric and duodenal ulcers, and the diet with fruit pulp displays duodenal healing effects. The observed effects may be associated with the antioxidant effect, which may be due the presence of condensed tannins and flavonoids in the bark and fruit of H. stigonocarpa.

Inhibitory effects of a spinasterol glycoside on lipopolysaccharide-induced production of nitric oxide and proinflammatory cytokines via down-regulating MAP kinase pathways and NF-κB activation in RAW264.7 macrophage cells

Extracts from the leaves of Stewartia koreana are known to exhibit strong anti-inflammatory activity. Investigation of bioactive compounds from S. koreana has led to the isolation of 3-O-β-d-glucopyanosylspinasterol (spinasterol-Glc), a spinasterol glycoside. In the present study, we examined the effects of spinasterol-Glc on production of nitric oxide (NO) and proinflammatory cytokines in LPS-treated RAW264.7 macrophage cells and in mouse models. Our results showed that spinasterol-Glc inhibited the production of NO and proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β in dose-dependent manners in LPS-treated RAW264.7 cells. Spinasterol-Glc inhibited the expression of iNOS and the proinflammatory cytokine genes. Spinasterol-Glc also inhibited phosphorylation of IκB-α and IKKα/β as well as translocation of NF-κB to the nucleus. We demonstrated that spinasterol-Glc reduced transcription of the NF-κB minimal promoter and NF-κB DNA binding activity. Administration of the spinasterol-Glc significantly decreased the plasma levels of these inflammatory mediators including TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β in LPS-injected mice and improved survival of septic mice with lethal endotoxemia. These results suggest that spinasterol-Glc has effective inhibitory effects on production of inflammatory mediators via inhibition of MAP kinases/NF-κB activities, and can be used as a potential anti-inflammatory agent for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory diseases.

Pharmacological effects of aqueous-ethanolic extract of Hibiscus rosasinensis on volume and acidity of stimulated gastric secretion

OBJECTIVE

To explore the effects of extract of Hibiscus rosasinensis (H. rosasinensis) on the volume, free and total acidity of gastric secretion induced by carbachol.

METHODS

Animals were kept on fasting for 48 h, then the pylorus of each animal was ligated. They were randomly divided into 5 groups and treated by carbachol at 600 μg/kg. Then animals in group II - V were treated by H. rosasinensis extract at 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight, cimetidine at 2.5 mg/kg and verapamil at 10 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneally, respectively. The volume, free and total acidity of gastric secretion were observed and compared.

RESULTS

It was found that the extract significantly reduced the volume, free and total acidity of gastric secretion (P<0.01). These reductions were comparable to cimetidine and verapamil. And the reduction in the volume and free acidity were more significant in cimetidine and verapamil treated group indicating that cimetidine and verapamil were more effective.

CONCLUSIONS

The extract of H. rosasinensis can reduced the volume, free and total acidity of gastric secretion, and can be used effectively in the treatment of peptic ulcer.

Antihyperalgesic activity of the methanol extract and some constituents obtained from Polygala cyparissias (Polygalaceae)

Polygala cyparissias, used in folk medicine as an anaesthetic, has already demonstrated antinociceptive activity against acute pain. In this study, we investigated the antihyperalgesic activity of the P. cyparissias methanol extract (PCME) from which the following compounds were isolated: α-spinasterol (PC1), 1,3-dihydroxy-7-methoxyxanthone (PC2), 1,7-dihydroxy-2,3-methylenedioxyxanthone (PC3) and 1,3,6,8-tetrahydroxy-2,7-dimethoxyxanthone (PC4). The antihyperalgesic effect was evaluated using experimental models of persistent pain induced by carrageenan, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), Freund's Complete Adjuvant (CFA), PGE(2) or epinephrine. The partial ligation of the sciatic nerve (PLSN) model was also used. In inflammatory hyperalgesia induced by carrageenan, LPS, CFA or PGE(2), the inhibition values obtained with the PCME treatment were 68 ± 3%, 89 ± 5%, 43 ± 3% and 40 ± 4%, respectively. In epinephrine-induced hyperalgesia, the extract was effective, reducing 99 ± 11% of response frequency, while in PLSN, 54 ± 4% of inhibition was obtained. These results allow to suggest that the antihyperalgesic activity of PCME is, at least in part, related to its capability to inhibit the hypersensitization induced by pro-inflammatory mediators, such as LPS, carrageenan and CFA, without interfering with locomotor activity or motor performance. Furthermore, compounds PC1, PC3 and PC4 inhibited the carrageenan-induced hyperalgesia with inhibition of 42 ± 6%, 48 ± 5% and 64 ± 4%, respectively. In summary, our data demonstrate that PCME has relevant antihyperalgesic activity and that the isolated PC1, PC3 and PC4 seem to be responsible, at least in part, for this important effect.

Pharmacological mechanisms underlying gastroprotective activities of the fractions obtained from Polygonum minus in Sprague Dawley rats

The leaves of Polygonum minus were fractionated using an eluting solvent to evaluate the pharmacological mechanisms underlying the anti-ulcerogenic activity of P. minus. Different P. minus fractions were obtained and evaluated for their ulcer preventing capabilities using the ethanol induction method. In this study, Sprague Dawley rats weighing 150–200 g were used. Different parameters were estimated to identify the active fraction underlying the mechanism of the gastroprotective action of P. minus: the gastric mucus barrier, as well as superoxide dismutase, total hexosamine, and prostaglandin synthesis. Amongst the five fractions from the ethanolic extract of P. minus, the ethyl acetate:methanol 1:1 v/v fraction (F2) significantly (p < 0.005) exhibited better inhibition of ulcer lesions in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, rats pre-treated with F2 showed a significant elevation in superoxide dismutase (SOD), hexosamine and PGE2 levels in the stomach wall mucosa in a dose-dependent matter. Based on these results, the ethyl acetate:methanol 1:1 v/v fraction was considered to be the best fraction for mucous protection in the ethanol induction model. The mechanisms underlying this protection were attributed to the synthesis of antioxidants and PGE2.