In vitro tests and ethnopharmacological investigations: wound healing as an example

Pharmacognostic characterization, wound healing and toxicity assessment of the stem bark of Xylia evansii Hutch (Leguminosae)

Xylia evansii is widely used in traditional medicine to stop bleeding gums and treat wounds. This study was undertaken to assess the wound healing activity and toxicity profile of the stem bark methanol extract of X. evansii (XES). Wound healing activity was determined by the dermal excision model in rats. The free radical scavenging capacity, antioxidant activity, total phenolic and flavonoid contents were evaluated by the 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), aluminum chloride colorimetric and Folin Ciocalteu methods respectively. Acute and sub-acute oral toxicity assessment was performed following the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development guidelines. Significant (p < 0.05) dose-dependent wound healing effect, similar to that of 1 % silver sulphadiazine was elicit by the 10, 15 and 20 %w/w XES ointments. The highest effect was demonstrated by XES 20 %w/w which resulted in 98.3 % wound surface closure by day 9 of treatment (p < 0.0001). The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined to be 381.2 ± 12.57 mg/g gallic acid equivalent (GAE) and 460 ± 29.07 mg/g quercetin equivalent respectively. XES exhibited remarkable free radical scavenging effect (IC50 = 68.13 ± 1.87 μg/mL) and had a total antioxidant capacity of 279.2 ± 32.08 mg/g GAE. The LD50 of XES was estimated to be > 5000 mg/kg. In sub-acute toxicity, 28 days treatment with XES (250, 500, 1000 mg/kg body weight) did not result in any significant (p > 0.05) change in the body weight or weight of the heart, lung, spleen, liver and kidneys. The haematological and biochemical profiles of XES-treated rats were not significantly (p > 0.05) affected after 4-weeks treatment with XES, except for platelet count which increased significantly (p < 0.0001) in a non-dose-dependent manner. Histopathological examination did not reveal any toxic effect to liver cells, however at 1000 mg/kg XES, slight abnormalities were identified in the glomeruli. Microscopy of the powdered stem bark displayed calcium oxalate crystals, pitted vessels and lignified fibres. Tannins, flavonoids, coumarins, saponins, triterpenes and alkaloids were identified in the bark. This is the first report on the wound healing potential and safety profile of X. evansii, giving scientific credence to its use in traditional medicine.

Anti-Inflammatory and Histological Analysis of Skin Wound Healing through Topical Application of Mexican Propolis

Skin wound healing is a complex biochemical process of tissue repair and remodeling in response to injury. Currently, the drugs used to improve the healing process are inaccessible to the population, are costly, and have side effects, making the search for new treatment alternatives necessary. Propolis is a natural product produced by bees that is widely recognized and used in folk medicine for its multiple biomedical activities. However, therapeutic information regarding Mexican propolis is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the wound-healing effect of the Chihuahua ethanolic extract of propolis (ChEEP). Macroscopic and histological analyses were performed using a mouse wound-healing model. The topic acute toxicity assay showed that propolis at 10% w/v had no toxic effects. ChEEP has antibacterial activity against the Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Moreover, it exhibited good anti-inflammatory activity evaluated through mouse ear edema induced by 12-O-tetradeca-noylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA). A full-thickness incision lesion was created in mice and treated topically with 10% ChEEP. At Day 14 post-treatment, it was observed that propolis increased wound contraction and reduced healing time and wound length; furthermore, propolis increased the tensile strength of the wound, as determined with the tensiometric method, and promoted the formation of type I collagen at the site of injury, as evaluated with Herovici stain. These findings suggest that the topical administration of ChEEP can improve skin wound healing, probably due to the synergistic effect of its components, mainly polyphenols, in different steps of the wound-healing process. It should be noted this is the first time that the wound-healing activity of a Mexican propolis has been evaluated.

Wound healing potential of Vakeri fortified KampillakadiTaila

BACKGROUND

Traditional medicine in form of decoctions has been known for ages to possess wound healing abilities. One such traditional formulation mentioned in Indian literature Charak Samhita Chikitsa Sthanam is Kampillakadi Taila and tremendous information is available on its implication in the treatment of skin cuts and wounds, diseases, or bacterial infections. This research paper focuses on studying the wound healing property of one such herbal proprietary formulation known as a wound healing oil, derived from Kampillakadi Taila fortified with root extract of Wagatea spicata (VIKHPF).

OBJECTIVE

The current research is aimed at studying chemical profiling, antioxidant activity, antimicrobial efficacy, in-vitro cell proliferating, and in-vitro wound healing activity of this VKHPF.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The chemical characterization of VKHPF was done by gas chromatography- fatty acid methyl esters GC-FAME analysis for lipid analysis and gas chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry (GC-HRMS)for revealing its chemical constituents. Proliferation and migration are two underlying mechanisms involved in the healing of wounds. Hence, in-vitro studies such as cell proliferation assay and in-vitro scratch test on NIH/3T3 mice fibroblast cell line were conducted were used to determine in-vitro wound healing capacity of VKHPF. The oil was also tested for antioxidant effect (DPPH assay) and anti-microbial potential (Time kill test).

RESULTS

The GC-HRMS and GC-FAME analyses revealed rich medicinally important fatty acids and vitamins were present in VKHPF, such as oleic acid, hexadecanoic acid, squalene, α, γ-tocopherol, γ-sitosterol, and benzoic acid. VKHPF at 0.5 mg/ml in media without serum showed 164.00 ± 0.011% cell viability with 64.00% cell proliferation in contrast to media containing serum (100% cell viability). At the same concentration, the wound closure was 98% for VKHPF. The oil sample possessed antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 3.5 mg/ml and antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa when tested using Time Kill Activity.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to report the use of Vakeri fortified Kampillakadi Taila herbal proprietary formulation (VKHPF) in in-vitro wound healing and the present data suggest that it can form a part of modern medicine.

Understanding the Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of Different Extracts of Secamone afzelii Leaves: A Potential Source of Bioactive Compounds for the Food Industry

Secamone afzelii (Roem. & Schult.) K. Schum (family Asclepiadaceae) is a creeping woody climber used to treat ailments in many traditional medicine systems. The present study aims to examine the antioxidant and enzyme inhibition activities of S. afzelii leaf using different compositions of methanol-water mixture as an extraction solvent. The extracts were characterized by HPLC-ESI-MSⁿ in terms of chemical compounds. The in silico results show that compound 23 (quercitrin) has the higher docking scores among the selected substances and the MD simulation revealed that the interactions with the enzymatic pocket are stable over the simulation time and strongly involve the tyrosinase catalytic Cu atoms. All together the results showed that both 80% and 100% methanolic extracts contained significantly (p < 0.05) the highest total phenolics content while the highest content of total flavonoids was significantly (p < 0.05) extracted by 100% methanol. About 26 compounds were tentatively identified by HPLC-ESI-MSⁿ and 6 of them were quantified using standards. Results showed that the extracts were rich in flavonoids with a relatively high abundance of two kaempferol glycosides comprising 60% of quantified compounds. The 100% and 80% methanol extracts recorded significantly (p < 0.05) the highest total antioxidant, DPPH and ABTS activity as well as tyrosinase and ⍺-amylase inhibitory activities. The best significant (p < 0.05) cholinesterase inhibitory activity and reducing capacity of Fe⁺⁺⁺ and Cu⁺⁺ was recorded from the 80% methanolic extract while 100% ethanolic extract gave the highest significant (p < 0.05) butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory activity. The best glucosidase activity was observed in the 50% and 80% methanolic extracts. Although the water extract displayed the least total phenolics and flavonoids content and consequently the lowest antioxidant and enzyme inhibition activity, it displayed significantly (p < 0.05) the highest chelating power. In conclusion, these results demonstrated the richness of S. afzelii leaf as a potential source of bioactive compounds for the food industry, for the preparation of food supplements and functional foods.

Anticoagulant effect of Feijoa sellowiana extracts generated by different biotechnological techniques

Blood clotting has become one of the most dangerous side effects associated with Corona virus, as well as the high level of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Therefore, it has become necessary to use medicinal plants that are biologically safe and containing anti-clotting compound. Feijoa sellowiana represents a prolific source diverse compounds that may have thrombolytic activity. Therefore, the main research point is the production and scaling up of a target contents that have anticoagulants by using biotechnological techniques; calli production, and bioreactors and assessed their activity through in-vivo study. Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium enriched with varying concentrations of benzyl adenine (BA) and naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) was used to cultivate calli and cell suspension cultures from F. sellowiana seeds. Bioreactors were employed to boost active constituent's production. Moreover, the bioreactor physical factors such as effect of controlled or uncontrolled pH medium were investigated. The leaves of the main plant were extracted by ethanol 70% and polar and non-polar extracts were also prepared. The ethanol extract of calli and cells resulting from bioreactors were also prepared. All prepared extracts were subjected to chemical analysis by HPLC, in-vitro antioxidant assays, in-vivo anticoagulant activity and histopathological examination. Calli and cell suspension cultures were produced by using MS medium fortified with 1 mg/L BA+ 0.1 mg/L NAA. It was found that culturing of cell cultures in a bioreactor with uncontrolled pH and aeration at the value of 0.5 L/min gave the maximum and economical fresh and dry weights of the plants. After evaluation of all extracts; it was found that the calli ethanol extract for each plant was the highest value of total phenolic and total flavonoid contents either quantitatively or qualitatively. All extracts of Feijoa had antioxidant activity. The IC₅₀ of the DPPH of Feijoa calli extract was 13.45 μg/mL, it was also confirmed by FRAP and ABTs values. Feijoa calli extract decreased platelet aggregation by suppression of thrombin, extended aPTT, PT, bleeding and clotting times. It was safer than warfarin medication. From these findings the authors can conclude that Feijoa had highly anticoagulant activity and the calli production achieved the goal of the enhancement of the phenolic constituent and thus their activity.

Chemical Composition and Biological Activity of Commelina erecta: An Edible Wild Plant Consumed in Brazil

In recent years, the interest in products of natural origin has boosted the exploitation and use of plants as food and sources of bioactive compounds, especially wild plants widely used in different cultures for several purposes. Commelina erecta is a wild edible plant (WEP) traditionally used as food and medicine, about which few studies exist. Thus, this study aimed at enhancing the knowledge about its nutritional, chemical and bioactive profile, considering different plant parts and development stages, in order to increase its inclusion in the diet of South American communities. The nutritional profile was found to be similar to other WEP frequently consumed in Brazil. Thirteen phenolic compounds (HPLC-DAD-ESI/MS) were tentatively identified, with apigenin, luteolin and quercetin derivatives being the most abundant. Fructose and oxalic acid were the major sugar and organic acid, respectively, in the aerial parts of C. erecta, and four isoforms of tocopherols were also identified. Regarding the plant's antioxidant activity, the EC₅₀ values varied between 18.4 and 1060 µg/mL in the inhibition of lipid peroxidation assay (TBARS) and between 53 and 115 µg/mL in the oxidative haemolysis inhibition (OxHLIA) assay. The hydroethanolic extract obtained from stems at the flowering stage also presented anti-inflammatory activity. In general, all the extracts evidenced promising antimicrobial activity. Altogether, these results reinforce the traditional use of this plant species as food and medicine to support the diet of needier populations and also promote food sovereignty and sustainability.

Echinops spinosissimus Turra Root Methanolic Extract: Characterization of the Bioactive Components and Relative Wound Healing, Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Properties

Echinops spinosissimus Turra subsp. bovei (Asteraceae) is a medicinal plant in western Algeria. Traditionally, roots and inflorescences are employed as hypertensive agents and in the treatment of hemorrhoids. The current study evaluates the chemical composition, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties of the root methanolic extract from E. spinosissimus subsp. bovei. The content of total phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins was determined. In addition, the phenolic profile was typified. The studied plant extract resulted in being primarily composed of Apigenin, Kaempferol, and their derivatives. The total phenolic content was equal to 95.31 ± 2.90 mg GAE/g DW, while the number of flavonoids and condensed tannins was 16.01 ± 0.16 mg CE/g DW and 8.30 ± 0.65 mg CE/g DW, respectively. The methanolic extract was found to exhibit antioxidant activity towards the DPPH radical, with an IC₅₀ of 7.99 ± 0.28 mg/mL and a TAC of 30.30 ± 0.54 mg AAE/g DW, as well as an antibacterial effect, especially against P. aeruginosa. No significant wound-healing property was observed, even though the histopathological observations showed enhanced wound-healing quality. According to our evidence, E. spinosissimus could represent a source of phytochemicals with potential beneficial effects for human health in terms of antioxidant and antibiotic properties, although further investigations on this species are needed.

Cellular and Molecular Events of Wound Healing and the Potential of Silver Based Nanoformulations as Wound Healing Agents

Chronic wounds are a silent epidemic threatening the lives of many people worldwide. They are associated with social, health care and economic burdens and can lead to death if left untreated. The treatment of chronic wounds is very challenging as it may not be fully effective and may be associated with various adverse effects. New wound healing agents that are potentially more effective are being discovered continuously to combat these chronic wounds. These agents include silver nanoformulations which can contain nanoparticles or nanocomposites. To be effective, the discovered agents need to have good wound healing properties which will enhance their effectiveness in the different stages of wound healing. This review will focus on the process of wound healing and describe the properties of silver nanoformulations that contribute to wound healing.

Wound Healing and Antioxidant Properties of Launaea procumbens Supported by Metabolomic Profiling and Molecular Docking

Wounds adversely affect people’s quality of life and have psychological, social, and economic impacts. Herbal remedies of Launaea procumbens (LP) are used to treat wounds. In an excision wound model, topical application of LP significantly promoted wound closure (on day 14, LP-treated animals had the highest percentages of wound closure in comparison with the other groups, as the wound was entirely closed with a closure percentage of 100%, p < 0.05). Histological analysis revealed a considerable rise in the number of fibroblasts, the amount of collagen, and its cross-linking in LP-treated wounds. Gene expression patterns showed significant elevation of TGF-β levels (2.1-fold change after 7 days treatment and 2.7-fold change in 14 days treatment) and downregulation of the inflammatory TNF-α and IL-1β levels in LP-treated wounds. Regarding in vitro antioxidant activity, LP extract significantly diminished the formation of H2O2 radical (IC50 = 171.6 μg/mL) and scavenged the superoxide radical (IC50 of 286.7 µg/mL), indicating antioxidant potential in a dose-dependent manner. Dereplication of the secondary metabolites using LC-HRMS resulted in the annotation of 16 metabolites. The identified compounds were docked against important wound-healing targets, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), collagen α-1, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). Among dereplicated compounds, luteolin 8-C-glucoside (orientin) demonstrated binding potential to four investigated targets (VEGF, interleukin 1β, TNF-α, and collagen α-1). To conclude, Launaea procumbens extract could be regarded as a promising topical therapy to promote wound healing in excisional wounds, and luteolin 8-C-glucoside (orientin), one of its constituents, is a potential wound-healing drug lead.

Attenuation of dermal wounds through topical application of ointment containing phenol enriched fraction of Caesalpinia mimosoides Lam

Caesalpinia mimosoides Lam. is one of the important medicinal plants used by the traditional healers of Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka (India) for treating wounds. In our previous study ethanol extract of the plant was evaluated for its wound healing activity. In continuation, the present study was aimed to evaluate the phenol enriched fraction (PEF) of ethanol extract for wound healing activity along with its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. The potent wound healing activity of PEF was evidenced by observation of increased rate of cell migration in L929, 3T3L1 and L6 cells (92.59 ± 1.53%, 98.42 ± 0.82% and 96.63 ± 0.61% respectively) at 7.81 μg/ml doses in assays carried out in vitro. Significantly enhanced rate of wound contraction (97.92 ± 0.41%), tensile strength (973.67 ± 4.43 g/mm2), hydroxyproline (31.31 ± 0.64 mg/g) and hexosamine (8.30 ± 0.47 mg/g) contents were observed on 15th post wounding day in 5% PEF treated animals. The enzymatic and non-enzymatic cellular antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, catalase and reduced glutathione) were upregulated (15.89 ± 0.17 U/mg, 48.30 ± 4.60 U/mg and 4.04 ± 0.12 μg/g respectively) with the administration of 5% PEF. The significant antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities support the positive correlation of PEF with its enhanced wound healing activity. PEF contains expressive amounts of total phenolic and total flavonoid contents (578.28 ± 2.30 mg GAE/g and 270.76 ± 2.52 mg QE/g). Of the various chemicals displayed in RP-UFLC-DAD analysis of PEF, gallic acid (68.08 μg/mg) and ethyl gallate (255.91 μg/mg) were predominant. The results indicate that PEF has great potential for the topical management of open wounds.

The Wound-Healing Potential of Olea europaea L. Cv. Arbequina Leaves Extract: An Integrated In Vitro, In Silico, and In Vivo Investigation

Olea europaea L. Cv. Arbequina (OEA) (Oleaceae) is an olive variety species that has received little attention. Besides our previous work for the chemical profiling of OEA leaves using LC−HRESIMS, an additional 23 compounds are identified. An excision wound model is used to measure wound healing action. Wounds are provided with OEA (2% w/v) or MEBO® cream (marketed treatment). The wound closure rate related to vehicle-treated wounds is significantly increased by OEA. Comparing to vehicle wound tissues, significant levels of TGF-β in OEA and MEBO® (p < 0.05) are displayed by gene expression patterns, with the most significant levels in OEA-treated wounds. Proinflammatory TNF-α and IL-1β levels are substantially reduced in OEA-treated wounds. The capability of several lignan-related compounds to interact with MMP-1 is revealed by extensive in silico investigation of the major OEA compounds (i.e., inverse docking, molecular dynamics simulation, and ΔG calculation), and their role in the wound-healing process is also characterized. The potential of OEA as a potent MMP-1 inhibitor is shown in subsequent in vitro testing (IC50 = 88.0 ± 0.1 nM). In conclusion, OEA is introduced as an interesting therapeutic candidate that can effectively manage wound healing because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Development of Lepidium sativum Extracts/PVA Electrospun Nanofibers as Wound Healing Dressing

Lepidium sativum L. (Garden cress/Hab El Rashad) (Ls), family Brassicaceae, has considerable importance in traditional medicine worldwide because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Ls fruits were used in Ayurvedic medicines as a useful drug for injuries, skin, and eye diseases. The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the total ethanol extract (TEE) and polysaccharide (Poly) of Ls seeds loaded on poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofibers (NFs) as a wound healing dressing and to correlate the activity with the constituents of each. TEE and Poly were phytochemically analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. Qualitative analysis proved the presence of phenolic acids, flavonoids, tannins, sterols, triterpenes, and mucilage. Meanwhile, quantitative determinations were carried out spectrophotometrically for total phenolic and total flavonoid contents. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for TEE identified 15 phenolic acids and flavonoid compounds, with gallic acid and catechin as the majors. Separation, purification, and identification of the major compounds were achieved through a Puriflash system, column Sephadex LH20, and spectroscopic data (¹H, ¹³C NMR, and UV). Eight compounds (gallic acid, catechin, rutin, kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, quercetin-3-O-rhamnoside, kaempferol-3-O-rhamnoside, quercetin, and kaempferol) were obtained. Gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) analysis for Poly identified 11 compounds, with galactose being the main. The antioxidant activity for both extracts was measured by three different methods based on different mechanisms: 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), and 3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS). TEE has the highest effectiveness as an antioxidant agent with IC₅₀ 82.6 ± 8.35 μg/mL for DPPH and 772.47 and 758.92 μM Trolox equivalent/mg extract for FRAP and ABTS, respectively. The PVA nanofibers (NFs) for each sample were fabricated by electrospinning. The fabricated NFs were characterized by SEM and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR); the results revealed successful encapsulation of TEE and Poly in the prepared NFs. Moreover, the swelling index of TEE in the prepared NFs shows that it is the most appropriate for use as a wound dressing. Cytotoxicity studies indicated a high cell viability with IC₅₀ 216 μg/mL and 1750 μg/mL for TEE and Poly, respectively. Moreover, the results revealed that nanofibers possess higher cell viability compared to solutions with the same sample quantities: 9-folds for TEE and 4-folds for Poly of amount 400 μg. The in vitro wound healing test showed that the TEE nanofibers performed better than Poly nanofibers in accelerating wound healing, with 90% for TEE, more than that for the Poly extract (82%), after 48 h. These findings implied that the incorporation of TEE in PVA nanofibers was more efficient than incorporation of Poly in improving the biological activity in wound healing. In conclusion, the TEE and polysaccharides of L. sativum L seed are ideal candidates for nanofibrous wound dressings. Furthermore, the contents of phenolic acids and flavonoids in TEE, which have potential antioxidant activity, make the TEE of L. sativum more favorable for wound healing dressing.

In-vitro and in-vivo evaluations of tocotrienol-rich nanoemulsified system on skin wound healing

Proper wound healing is vital for the survival of higher organisms. Responses to skin injury can lead to complications such as scar formation that can affect the quality of life. In this study, keratinocytes migration (scratch assay) and zebrafish tail regeneration experiments were used to evaluate the wound healing effect of a tocotrienol-based nanoemulsified (NE) system against ascorbic acid and phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) as positive and negative controls, respectively. MTT assay provided a concentration range of 0.35–8.75 μg/ml of nanoemulsion that produced cell viability more than 100%. After 24 hours of treatment, the wound closure of keratinocytes were found to be significantly faster by 73.76%, 63.37% and 35.56%, respectively when treated with 3.50 μg/ml and 1.75 μg/ml of NE compared to the blank. The lethal concentration at 50% (LC₅₀ value) obtained from acute and prolonged toxicity was almost similar, which was 4.6 mg/ml and 5.0 mg/ml, respectively. Growth of zebrafish tail regeneration treated with NE at a concentration of 2.5 mg/ml was significantly faster than the untreated zebrafish, which regenerated to 40% on the fifth day, more than 60% on the tenth day of treatment and fully recovered at the twentieth day. In conclusion, these results showed the potential of the tocotrienols-based nanoemulsified system in enhancing wound healing through accelerated wound closure.

Phytochemical and Potential Properties of Seaweeds and Their Recent Applications: A Review

Since ancient times, seaweeds have been employed as source of highly bioactive secondary metabolites that could act as key medicinal components. Furthermore, research into the biological activity of certain seaweed compounds has progressed significantly, with an emphasis on their composition and application for human and animal nutrition. Seaweeds have many uses: they are consumed as fodder, and have been used in medicines, cosmetics, energy, fertilizers, and industrial agar and alginate biosynthesis. The beneficial effects of seaweed are mostly due to the presence of minerals, vitamins, phenols, polysaccharides, and sterols, as well as several other bioactive compounds. These compounds seem to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, antimicrobial, and anti-diabetic activities. Recent advances and limitations for seaweed bioactive as a nutraceutical in terms of bioavailability are explored in order to better comprehend their therapeutic development. To further understand the mechanism of action of seaweed chemicals, more research is needed as is an investigation into their potential usage in pharmaceutical companies and other applications, with the ultimate objective of developing sustainable and healthier products. The objective of this review is to collect information about the role of seaweeds on nutritional, pharmacological, industrial, and biochemical applications, as well as their impact on human health.

Wound healing properties of pharmaceutical gel containing isopimarane diterpene isolated from Kaempferia galanga L

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Kaempferia galanga L. rhizomes have been widely used in Thailand as medicine for treating inflammation and wound. A number of bioactive compounds have been isolated from the rhizomes of K. galanga and these compounds exhibited various pharmacological activities.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objective of this study is to investigate the wound healing properties of gel containing 6β-acetoxysandaracopimaradiene-1α, 9α-diol (KG6), a compound from K. galanga.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

KG6 gel formulations were prepared using 1.0% carbopol 940 as gelling agent. Three KG6 gel formulations (0.10, 0.25, 0.50% w/w) were subjected to heating-cooling test to determine their physical, chemical and biological stabilities. The wound healing properties of KG6 gel formulations were performed using RAW264.7 cells for anti-inflammatory effect, while their impact on cell proliferation and migration, collagen content and H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress was examined using human dermal fibroblasts (HDF).

RESULTS

The pH, viscosity and general appearance after the heating-cooling test of the three prepared gels were stable in the acceptable range of gel formulation for skin. Gel containing 0.25% KG6 showed better chemical stability than other formulations. The 0.25% KG6 gel significantly increased cell viability (102.8%) and produced the highest HDF cell migration (91.9%) which was greater than that of Aloe vera gel (96.2, 78.4%, respectively). This gel exhibited anti-inflammatory activity via suppressing nitric oxide release and improved the viability of HDF cells against H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress. The 0.25% KG6 gels also increased collagen content in HDF cells.

CONCLUSION

The gel formulation consisting of 0.25% KG6 with 1.0% of carbopol 940 was found to be a promising pharmaceutical gel for wound treatments due to marked wound healing properties.

Treating leishmaniasis in Amazonia, part 2: Multi-target evaluation of widely used plants to understand medicinal practices

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Leishmaniasis are widely distributed among tropical and subtropical countries, and remains a crucial health issue in Amazonia. Indigenous groups across Amazonia have developed abundant knowledge about medicinal plants related to this pathology.

AIM OF THE STUDY

We intent to explore the weight of different pharmacological activities driving taxa selection for medicinal use in Amazonian communities. Our hypothesis is that specific activity against Leishmania parasites is only one factor along other (anti-inflammatory, wound healing, immunomodulating, antimicrobial) activities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The twelve most widespread plant species used against leishmaniasis in Amazonia, according to their cultural and biogeographical importance determined through a wide bibliographical survey (475 use reports), were selected for this study. Plant extracts were prepared to mimic their traditional preparations. Antiparasitic activity was evaluated against promastigotes of reference and clinical New-World strains of Leishmania (L. guyanensis, L. braziliensis and L. amazonensis) and L. amazonensis intracellular amastigotes. We concurrently assessed the extracts immunomodulatory properties on PHA-stimulated human PBMCs and RAW264.7 cells, and on L. guyanensis antigens-stimulated PBMCs obtained from Leishmania-infected patients, as well as antifungal activity and wound healing properties (human keratinocyte migration assay) of the selected extracts. The cytotoxicity of the extracts against various cell lines (HFF1, THP-1, HepG2, PBMCs, RAW264.7 and HaCaT cells) was also considered. The biological activity pattern of the extracts was represented through PCA analysis, and a correlation matrix was calculated.

RESULTS

Spondias mombin L. bark and Anacardium occidentale L. stem and leaves extracts displayed high anti-promatigotes activity, with IC₅₀ ≤ 32 μg/mL against L. guyanensis promastigotes for S. mombin and IC₅₀ of 67 and 47 μg/mL against L. braziliensis and L. guyanensis promastigotes, respectively, for A. occidentale. In addition to the antiparasitic effect, antifungal activity measured against C. albicans and T. rubrum (MIC in the 16-64 μg/mL range) was observed. However, in the case of Leishmania amastigotes, the most active species were Bixa orellana L. (seeds), Chelonantus alatus (Aubl.) Pulle (leaves), Jacaranda copaia (Aubl.) D. Don. (leaves) and Plantago major L. (leaves) with IC₅₀ < 20 μg/mL and infection rates of 14-25% compared to the control. Concerning immunomodulatory activity, P. major and B. orellana were highlighted as the most potent species for the wider range of cytokines in all tested conditions despite overall contrasting results depending on the model. Most of the species led to moderate to low cytotoxic extracts except for C. alatus, which exhibited strong cytotoxic activity in almost all models. None of the tested extracts displayed wound healing properties.

CONCLUSIONS

We highlighted pharmacologically active extracts either on the parasite or on associated pathophysiological aspects, thus supporting the hypothesis that antiparasitic activities are not the only biological factor useful for antileishmanial evaluation. This result should however be supplemented by in vivo studies, and attracts once again the attention on the importance of the choice of biological models for an ethnophamacologically consistent study. Moreover, plant cultural importance, ecological status and availability were discussed in relation with biological results, thus contributing to link ethnobotany, medical anthropology and biology.

Evaluation of the wound healing properties of South African medicinal plants using zebrafish and in vitro bioassays

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In South Africa, medicinal plants have a history of traditional use, with many species used for treating wounds. The scientific basis of such uses remains largely unexplored.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To screen South African plants used ethnomedicinally for wound healing based on their pro-angiogenic and wound healing activity, using transgenic zebrafish larvae and cell culture assays.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

South African medicinal plants used for wound healing were chosen according to literature. Dried plant material was extracted using six solvents of varying polarities. Pro-angiogenesis was assessed in vivo by observing morphological changes in sub-intestinal vessels after crude extract treatment of transgenic zebrafish larvae with vasculature-specific expression of a green fluorescent protein. Subsequently, the in vitro anti-inflammatory, fibroblast proliferation and collagen production effects of the plant extracts that were active in the zebrafish angiogenesis assay were investigated using murine macrophage (RAW 264.7) and human fibroblast (MRHF) cell lines.

RESULTS

Fourteen plants were extracted using six different solvents to yield 84 extracts and the non-toxic (n=72) were initially screened for pro-angiogenic activity in the zebrafish assay. Of these plant species, extracts of Lobostemon fruticosus, Scabiosa columbaria and Cotyledon orbiculata exhibited good activity in a concentration-dependent manner. All active extracts showed negligible in vitro toxicity using the MTT assay. Lobostemon fruticosus and Scabiosa columbaria extracts showed noteworthy anti-inflammatory activity in RAW 264.7 macrophages. The acetone extract of Lobostemon fruticosus stimulated the most collagen production at 122% above control values using the MRHF cell line, while all four of the selected extracts significantly stimulated cellular proliferation in vitro in the MRHF cell line.

CONCLUSIONS

The screening of the selected plant species provided valuable preliminary information validating the use of some of the plants in traditional medicine used for wound healing in South Africa. This study is the first to discover through an evidence-based pharmacology approach the wound healing properties of such plant species using the zebrafish as an in vivo model.

Evaluation the ability of acellular ovine small intestine submucosa to load and release of mineral pitch and its anti-inflammatory effects

Injury from the severe burn is exacerbated by a persistent inflammatory response. This response is mediated by cytokines and chemokines, which are released from various immune cells, including mast cells. In this study, the ability of the acellular ovine small intestine submucosa (AOSIS) to load and release of Mineral Pitch (MP) was first investigated, and it was found that the preparation of the scaffold by a modified method enables it to load and release water-soluble drugs. Then, 32 male Wistar rats were divided into four groups, a third-degree burn was created, and except for the control group, the others were treated with: AOSIS, WJ-MSCs seeded AOSIS, or AOSIS loaded with WJ-MSCs and MP. Wound sampling on the 5th day after treatment showed that the number of intact and degranulated mast cells in the treatment groups was associated with a decrease compared to the control group. In the last group, this decrease was the largest (and statically significant (p < 0.05)). Also, by measuring the level of inflammatory factors in blood serum, it was found that in the treatment groups compared to the control group, IL-10 was associated with an increase, and TNF-α was associated with a decrease. The changes in inflammatory factors were more significant (p < 0.05) in the last group. So, our results indicate that AOSIS loaded with WJ-MSCs and MP could be used as an innovative tissue-engineered device to control inflammatory condition during burn wound healing.

Free radical scavenging activities of verbascoside and isoverbascoside from the leaves of Odontonema strictum (Acanthaceae)

The aqueous extract of the leaves of Odontonema strictum, a plant from tropical regions, is used by traditional physicians in Burkina Faso for its antihypertensive properties. Verbascoside and isoverbascoside, known phenylpropanoid glycosides with high solubility in water, have been isolated from the leaves. We evaluated their antioxidant properties in vitro by radical scavenging using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). Verbascoside and isoverbascoside demonstrated high levels of DPPH radical scavenging activity, with IC₅₀ values of 0.09 ± 0.03 μg/mL and 0.16 ± 0.07 μg/mL, respectively, compared to 0.05 ± 0.0 μg/mL for ascorbic acid as a control. These two phenylpropanoid glycosides were also more potent (2.6 ± 0.36 μg/mL and 3.0 ± 0.01 μg/mL) in scavenging H₂O₂ than the ascorbic acid control (4.1 ± 0.97 µg/mL). This is the first time that the antioxidant properties of verbascoside and isoverbascoside from O. strictum have been evaluated. These results can explain the use of this plant for hypertension in folk medicine.

Exopolysaccharide produced by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum RO30 isolated from Romi cheese: characterization, antioxidant and burn healing activity

Microbial exopolysaccharides (EPSs) extracted from lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are generally recognized as safe. They have earned popularity in recent years because of their exceptional biological features. Therefore, the present study main focus was to study EPS-production from probiotic LAB and to investigate their antioxidant and burn wound healing efficacy. Seventeen LAB were isolated from different food samples. All of them showed EPS-producing abilities ranging from 1.75 ± 0.05 to 4.32 ± 0.12 g/l. RO30 isolate (from Romi cheese) was chosen, due to its ability to produce the highest EPS yield (4.23 ± 0.12 g/l). The 16S rDNA sequencing showed it belonged to the Lactiplantibacillus plantarum group and was further identified as L. plantarum RO30 with accession number OL757866. It displayed well in vitro probiotic properties. REPS was extracted and characterized. The existence of COO⁻, OH and amide groups corresponding to typical EPSs was confirmed via FTIR. It was constituted of glucuronic acid, mannose, glucose, and arabinose in a molar ratio of 2.2:0.1:0.5:0.1, respectively. The average molecular weight was 4.96 × 10⁴ g/mol. In vitro antioxidant assays showed that the REPS possesses a DPPH radical scavenging ability of 43.60% at 5 mg/ml, reducing power of 1.108 at 10 mg/ml, and iron chelation activity of 72.49% and 89.78% at 5 mg/ml and 10 mg/ml, respectively. The healing efficacy of REPS on burn wound models in albino Wistar rats showed that REPS at 0.5% (w/w) concentration stimulated the process of healing in burn areas. The results suggested that REPS might be useful as a burn wound healing agent.

In vitro fibroblasts viability and migration stimulation of Acalypha indica: an insight on wound healing activity

Background

The current study investigates the antioxidant activity of Acalypha indica aerial parts and root ethanolic extracts and explore whether these extracts will stimulate fibroblasts viability and ability to migrate.

Results

Aerial parts extract exhibited higher DPPH scavenging activity compared to root extract with IC50 of 62 µg/mL and 206 µg/mL, respectively. Both aerial parts and root extracts showed low cytotoxicity towards fibroblasts with 753 µg/mL LD50 for aerial parts and undetected LD50 for root extract. Additionally, aerial parts extract significantly induces fibroblasts proliferation up to 134%. Wound closure investigation showed a significant closure percentage for aerial parts compared to untreated control with 75% at 1 µg/mL and high closure percentage with 70% at 0.1 µg/mL for root extract compared to only 59% closure percentage for untreated control after 48 h of the study.

Conclusions

This study provided evidence for A. indica to have great wound healing potential. The finding builds the scientific background in future to utilise the high antioxidant activity of A. indica and its ability to stimulate fibroblasts migration and proliferation for further applications.

Wound Healing Metabolites from Peters' Elephant-Nose Fish Oil: An In Vivo Investigation Supported by In Vitro and In Silico Studies

Gnathonemuspetersii (F. Mormyridae) commonly known as Peters' elephant-nose fish is a freshwater elephant fish native to West and Central African rivers. The present research aimed at metabolic profiling of its derived crude oil via GC-MS analysis. In addition, wound healing aptitude in adult male New Zealand Dutch strain albino rabbits along with isolated bioactive compounds in comparison with a commercial product (Mebo^®). The molecular mechanism was studied through a number of in vitro investigations, i.e., radical scavenging and inhibition of COX enzymes, in addition to in silico molecular docking study. The results revealed a total of 35 identified (71.11%) compounds in the fish oil, belonging to fatty acids (59.57%), sterols (6.11%), and alkanes (5.43%). Phytochemical investigation of the crude oil afforded isolation of six compounds 1-6. Moreover, the crude oil showed significant in vitro hydrogen peroxide and superoxide radical scavenging activities. Furthermore, the crude oil along with one of its major components (compound 4) exhibited selective inhibitory activity towards COX-2 with IC₅₀ values of 15.27 and 2.41 µM, respectively. Topical application of the crude oil on excision wounds showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the wound healing rate in comparison to the untreated and Mebo^®-treated groups, where fish oil increased the TGF-β1 expression, down-regulated TNF-α, and IL-1β. Accordingly, Peters' elephant-nose fish oil may be a potential alternative medication helping wound healing owing to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.

An Overview to the Health Benefits of Seaweeds Consumption

Currently, seaweeds are gaining major attention due to the benefits they give to our health. Recent studies demonstrate the high nutritional value of seaweeds and the powerful properties that seaweeds' bioactive compounds provide. Species of class Phaeophyceae, phylum Rhodophyta and Chlorophyta possess unique compounds with several properties that are potential allies of our health, which make them valuable compounds to be involved in biotechnological applications. In this review, the health benefits given by consumption of seaweeds as whole food or by assumption of bioactive compounds trough natural drugs are highlighted. The use of seaweeds in agriculture is also highlighted, as they assure soils and crops free from chemicals; thus, it is advantageous for our health. The addition of seaweed extracts in food, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and industrial companies will enhance the production and consumption/usage of seaweed-based products. Therefore, there is the need to implement the research on seaweeds, with the aim to identify more bioactive compounds, which may assure benefits to human and animal health.

Biomolecular modifications during keratinocyte differentiation: Raman spectroscopy and chromatographic techniques

From the basal layer until the stratum corneum, lipid and protein biomarkers associated with morphological changes denote keratinocyte differentiation and characterize each epidermis layer. Herein, we followed keratinocyte differentiation in the early stages using HaCaT cells over a period of two weeks by two complementary analytical techniques: Raman microspectroscopy and high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high resolution mass spectrometry. A high concentration of calcium in the medium induced HaCaT cell differentiation in vitro. The results from both techniques underlined the keratinocyte passage from the granular layer (day 9) to the stratum corneum layer (day 13). After 13 days of differentiation, we observed a strong increase in the lipid content, decrease in proteins, decrease in DNA, and a decrease in glucosylceramides/ceramides and sphingomyelins/ceramides ratios.

Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry and Biological Activities of Native Chilean Plants

The native flora of Chile has unique characteristics due to the geographical situation of the country, with the vast desert in the North, Patagonia in the South, the Andean Mountains on the east and the Pacific Ocean on the west. This exclusivity is reflected in high concentrations of phytochemicals in the fruits and leaves of its native plants. Some examples are Aristotelia chilensis (Molina), Stuntz (maqui), Berberis microphylla G. Forst. (calafate), Peumus boldus Molina (boldo), Ribes magellanicum Poir. (Magellan currant), Ugni molinae Turcz. (murtilla), Rubus geoides Sm. (miñe miñe), Drimys winteri J.R.Forst. & G.Forst. (canelo), Luma apiculata (DC.) Burret (arrayán) distributed throughout the entire Chilean territory. Some of these Chilean plants have been used for centuries in the country's traditional medicine. The most recent studies of phytochemical characterization of parts of Chilean plants show a wide spectrum of antioxidant compounds, phenolic components, terpenoids and alkaloids, which have shown biological activity in both in vitro and in vivo studies. This manuscript covers the entire Chilean territory characterizing the phytochemical profile and reporting some of its biological properties, focusing mainly on antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, chemopreventive and cytotoxic activity, and potential against diabetes, metabolic syndrome and gastrointestinal disorders.

Polyphenolic Compounds Extracted and Purified from Buddleja Globosa Hope (Buddlejaceae) Leaves Using Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents and Centrifugal Partition Chromatography

Chemical profiling of Buddleja globosa was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization (HPLC-DAD-ESI-IT/MS) and quadrupole time-of-flight high-resolution mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-QTOF/MS). The identification of 17 main phenolic compounds in B. globosa leaf extracts was achieved. Along with caffeoyl glucoside isomers, caffeoylshikimic acid and several verbascoside derivatives (β-hydroxyverbascoside and β-hydroxyisoverbascoside) were identified. Among flavonoid compounds, the presence of 6-hydroxyluteolin-7-O-glucoside, quercetin-3-O-glucoside, luteolin 7-O-glucoside, apigenin 7-O-glucoside was confirmed. Campneoside I, forsythoside B, lipedoside A and forsythoside A were identified along with verbascoside, isoverbascoside, eukovoside and martynoside. The isolation of two bioactive phenolic compounds verbascoside and forsythoside B from Buddleja globosa (Buddlejaceae) was successfully achieved by centrifugal partition chromatography (CPC). Both compounds were obtained in one-step using optimized CPC methodology with the two-phase solvent system comprising ethyl acetate-n-butanol-ethanol-water (0.25:0.75:0.1:1, v/v). Additionally, eight Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADESs) were tested for the extraction of polyphenols and compared with 80% methanol. The contents of verbascoside and luteolin 7-O-glucoside after extraction with 80% methanol were 26.165 and 3.206 mg/g, respectively. Among the NADESs tested in this study, proline- citric acid (1:1) and choline chloride-1, 2- propanediol (1:2) were the most promising solvents. With these NADES, extraction yields for verbascoside and luteolin 7-O-glucoside were 51.045 and 4.387 mg/g, respectively. Taken together, the results of this study confirm that CPC enabled the fast isolation of bioactive polyphenols from B. globosa. NADESs displayed higher extraction efficiency of phenolic and therefore could be used as an ecofriendly alternative to classic organic solvents.

Nanotechnology Development for Formulating Essential Oils in Wound Dressing Materials to Promote the Wound-Healing Process: A Review

Wound healing refers to the replacement of damaged tissue through strongly coordinated cellular events. The patient’s condition and different types of wounds complicate the already intricate healing process. Conventional wound dressing materials seem to be insufficient to facilitate and support this mechanism. Nanotechnology could provide the physicochemical properties and specific biological responses needed to promote the healing process. For nanoparticulate dressing design, growing interest has focused on natural biopolymers due to their biocompatibility and good adaptability to technological needs. Polysaccharides are the most common natural biopolymers used for wound-healing materials. In particular, alginate and chitosan polymers exhibit intrinsic antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, useful for guaranteeing efficient treatment. Recent studies highlight that several natural plant-derived molecules can influence healing stages. In particular, essential oils show excellent antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties that can be amplified by combining them with nanotechnological strategies. This review summarizes recent studies concerning essential oils as active secondary compounds in polysaccharide-based wound dressings.

Cathelicidin ΔPb-CATH4 derived from Python bivittatus accelerates the healing of Staphylococcus aureus-infected wounds in mice

The effects of ΔPb-CATH4, a cathelicidin derived from Python bivittatus, were evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus-infected wounds in mice. These effects were comparable to those of classical antibiotics. ΔPb-CATH4 was resistant to bacterial protease but not to porcine trypsin. A reduction in the level of inflammatory cytokines and an increase in the migration of immune cells was observed in vitro. Thus, ΔPb-CATH4 can promote wound healing by controlling infections including those caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria via its immunomodulatory effects.

Evaluation of Wound-Healing and Antioxidant Effects of Marantodes pumilum (Blume) Kuntze in an Excision Wound Model

Marantodes pumilum (MP) is a great source of herbal medicine used traditionally by both men and women for various purposes. MP may have potential wound-healing effects due to its diverse biological properties. An extensive study was conducted in a normal male rat model for determining the effects of MP var. pumila (MPvp) and var. alata (MPva) on the wound healing process. Here, 126 male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided randomly into seven groups as follows: sham-operated (SH), vehicle dressing (VD), flavine dressing (FD), MPvp leaves (PL), MPvp roots (PR), MPva leaves (AL), and MPva roots (AR). The parameters studied were the percentage of wound contraction, histomorphology study by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), Masson–Goldner trichrome (MGT), and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining. In addition, the levels of enzymatic antioxidants and malondialdehyde were also measured in the wound tissue homogenates. Wounds treated with extracts (PL, PR, AL, and AR) showed significantly faster healing (p < 0.05) compared to untreated and control groups (SH, VD, and FD). Histological analysis among MP-treated groups revealed better re-epithelialization, higher collagen deposition, enhanced fibronectin content and fibroblast cells, and higher fiber transformation from collagen-III to collagen-I, accompanied with a significant surge in enzymatic antioxidant activities and a decline in lipid peroxidation. MP has antioxidant effects that may enhance wound healing in the rat model.

Peritoneal adhesions: Occurrence, prevention and experimental models

Peritoneal adhesions (PA) are a postoperative syndrome with high incidence rate, which can cause chronic abdominal pain, intestinal obstruction, and female infertility. Previous studies have identified that PA are caused by a disordered feedback of blood coagulation, inflammation, and fibrinolysis. Monocytes, macrophages, fibroblasts, and mesothelial cells are involved in this process, and secreted signaling molecules, such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-10 (IL-10), tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), and type 1 plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1), play a key role in PA development. There have been many attempts to prevent PA formation by anti-PA drugs, barriers, and other therapeutic methods, but their effectiveness has not been widely accepted. Treatment by biomaterial-based barriers is believed to be the most promising method to prevent PA formation in recent years. In this review, the pathogenesis, treatment approaches, and animal models of PA are summarized and discussed to understand the challenges faced in the biomaterial-based anti-PA treatments.

In Vitro and In Vivo Wound Healing and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Babassu Oil (Attalea speciosa Mart. Ex Spreng., Arecaceae)

Babassu (Attalea speciosa Mart. ex Spreng., Arecaceae) is a palm tree endemic to Brazil and found mainly in the borders of Amazon forest, where the harvesting of its fruits is an important source of income for more than 300,000 people. Among the communities of coconut breakers women, babassu oil is used in culinary, as fuel, and mostly as medicinal oil for the treatment of skin wounds and inflammation. This study aimed to evaluate in vitro and in vivo the wound healing effects of babassu oil. In vitro, babassu oil increased the migration of L929 fibroblasts, inhibited the production of nitric oxide by LPS-stimulated peritoneal macrophages, and increased the levels of INF-γ and IL-6 cytokines production. In vivo, babassu oil accelerated the healing process in a full-thickness splinted wound model, by an increase in the fibroblasts number, blood vessels, and collagen deposition in the wounds. The babassu oil also increased the recruitment of inflammatory cells into the wound site and showed an anti-inflammatory effect in a chronic ear edema model, reducing ear thickness, epidermal hyperplasia, and myeloperoxidase activity. Thus, these data corroborate the use of babassu oil in folk medicine as a remedy to treat skin wounds.

Antibacterial and Toxicity Evaluation of Eastern Medicine Formulation Eczegone for the Management of Eczema

The present study was conducted to evaluate the antibacterial activity, in vitro and in vivo cytotoxicity, cell viability and safety of Eastern Medicine coded medicinal formulation Eczegone comprising extracts of Azadirachta indica (Azin), Fumaria indica (Fuin), Sphaeranthus indicus (Spin) and Lawsonia inermis (Lain). This work also evaluated antibacterial activity of Eczegone formulation having above mentioned plants ethanolic extracts against different bacteria’s by disk diffusion method. In vitro toxicity of Eczegone formulation was investigated by using human skin keratinocytes HaCaT cell line, crystal violet stained cells, and methyl tetrazolium cytotoxicity (MTT) assay. In vivo acute oral and dermal cytotoxicity was determined by using Swiss albino mice and albino rabbits, respectively. The Eczegone formulation showed antibacterial activity against 3 gram negative bacteria including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Proteus vulgaris and a gram positive Staphylococcus aureus. We didn’t observe any toxic effect of Eczegone formulation on the skin keratinocytes. Furthermore, the Ezcegone formulation was non-irritant according to draize score (OECD TG404, 2002). After rigorous safety evaluation by in vitro and in vivo acute oral and dermal toxicity analysis, we concluded that Eczegone formualtion possessses antibacterial effects and is safe, non-toxic, non-irritant, and the drug would be subjected for further biochemical and clinical studies.

Electrospun PCL-based nanofibers Arrabidaea chica Verlot - Pterodon pubescens Benth loaded: synergic effect in fibroblast formation

The guided tissue regeneration (GTR) technique can be applied in dentistry and other medical specializations, such as orthopedics. In modern dentistry, GTR has been used in periodontics and implantology to treat periodontal defects, to reconstruct lost, damaged and atrophied bone tissue in dental implant procedures, and to preserve alveolar bases after tooth extraction. In order to create and improve new therapies and to develop new biomaterials that restore, improve and prevent aggravation of compromised tissue function, poly (ϵ-caprolactone) (PCL) polymer membranes were obtained by the electrospinning process and were associated with two plant extracts: Pterodon pubescens Benth (P. pubescens) and Arrabidaea chica Verlot (A. chica) which are characterized by their pharmacological activities of anti-inflammatory and healing actions, respectively. Fiber morphology was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), where fiber average diameter was measured from SEM images. Contact angle measurements were performed in order to evaluate the hydrophilicity of electrospun membranes containing vegetal extract. High-performance liquid chromatography was used to evaluate the ability to release active ingredients. Cytotoxicity and cell proliferation assays were performed in vitro on NIH-3T3 cells for 1, 3 and 7 d. Electrospun PCL membranes associated with plant extracts P. pubescens and/or A. chica presented a controlled release profile of the active compounds induced fibroblast formation, suggesting that they are promising and suitable for applications in GTR.

Standardized Arrabidaea chica Extract Shows Cytoprotective Effects in Zoledronic Acid-Treated Fibroblasts and Osteoblasts

INTRODUCTION

Osteonecrosis of the jaw is a condition associated with intraoral ulceration and bone necrosis induced by antiresorptive medications, such as zoledronic acid, a bisphosphonate. Previous data on Arrabidaea chica (H&B.) Verlot wound healing activity prompted the study reported herein on A. chica standardized hydro alcoholic extract in vitro cytoprotective activity data on epithelial and osteoblastic cells exposed to zoledronic acid (ZA).

METHODS

Primary human gingival fibroblasts and murine pre-osteoblasts were treated with ZA 10 µM together with 5 or 10 µg.mL-1 A. chica extract for 24h and 48 h. At both times, cells were submitted to viability assay and caspase 3/7 activation evaluation. Statistical analysis used one-way ANOVA and p=0.05.

RESULTS

In cell viability assay, a drastic damage effect of ZA appeared after 48 h in both epithelial (55.8%) and pre-osteoblastic cells (39.7%). When treated with ZA in combination with A. chica extract, cells showed higher viability values: 74.1%-82.3% for fibroblasts and 66% for pre-osteoblasts. Furthermore, the combined treatment presented lower caspase 3/7 activation in fibroblasts and pre-osteoblasts.

CONCLUSION

At low concentrations, A. chica extract showed promising cytoprotective effects against ZA-induced damage actions; however, further in vitro and in vivo studies are required to establish the mechanism of action.

Neuroprotective Activity of Methanolic Extract of Lysimachia christinae against Glutamate Toxicity in HT22 Cell and Its Protective Mechanisms

Purpose

Excessive glutamate amount can give oxidative stress to neuronal cells, and the accumulation of cell death can trigger the neurodegenerative disorders. In this study, we discovered the neuroprotective effect of Lysimachia christinae Hance in the mouse hippocampal HT22 cell line.

Method

Overnight incubated HT22 cells were pretreated with L. christinae extract dose dependently (1, 10, and 100 μg/ml). Followed by then, glutamate was treated. These treated cells were incubated several times again, and cell viability, accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca²⁺, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and glutathione-related enzyme amount were measured.

Results

As a result, L. christinae increases the cell viability by inhibiting the ROS and Ca²⁺ formation, recovering the level of MMP and enhancing the activity of glutathione production compared with only vehicle-treated groups.

Conclusion

These draw that L. christinae may remarkably decelerate the neurodegeneration by minimizing neuronal cell damage via oxidative stress.

Fibroblast Proliferation and Migration in Wound Healing by Phytochemicals: Evidence for a Novel Synergic Outcome

Wound-healing is a dynamic skin reparative process that results in a sequence of events, including inflammation, proliferation, and migration of different cell types as fibroblasts. Fibroblasts play a crucial role in repairing processes, from the late inflammatory phase until the fully final epithelization of the injured tissue. Within this context, identifying tools able to implement cell proliferation and migration could improve tissue regeneration. Recently, plants species from all over the world are coming out as novel tools for therapeutic applications thanks to their phytochemicals, which have antioxidant properties and can promote wound healing. In this paper, we aimed at investigating antioxidant activity of waste extracts from different medicinal plants, endemic of the Mediterranean area, on fibroblast proliferation and wound healing. We determined the amount of total phenols and anti-oxidant activity by ABTS assay. We then evaluated the cytotoxicity of the compounds and the proliferative capabilities of fibroblasts by scratch assay. Our results showed that waste extracts retain antioxidant and regenerative properties, inducing tissue re-establishment after environmental stress exposure. Taken together, our findings suggest that waste material could be used in the future also in combinations to stimulate wound healing processes and antioxidant responses in damaged skin.

Antioxidant molecular mechanism of adenosyl homocysteinase from cyanobacteria and its wound healing process in fibroblast cells

An antioxidant molecule namely, adenosyl homocysteinase (AHc) was identified from the earlier constructed transcriptome database of Spirulina, where it was cultured in a sulphur deprived condition. From the AHc protein, a small peptide NL13 was identified using bioinformatics tools and was predicted to have antioxidant property. Further, the peptide was synthesised and its antioxidant mechanism was addressed at molecular level. NL13 was subjected to various antioxidant assays including DPPH assay, HARS assay, SARS Assay, NO assay and ABTS assay, where NL13 exhibited significant (P < 0.05) potential antioxidant activity compared to its antioxidant control, Trolox. Cytotoxicity was performed on Human whole blood and the cell viability was performed on VERO fibroblast cells. In both assays, it was found that NL13 did not exhibit any cytotoxic effect towards the cells. Further, the intracellular ROS was performed on Multimode reader followed by imaging on fluorescence microscope which showed scavenging activity even at lower concentration of NL13 (31.2 µM). An effective wound healing property of NL13 on VERO cells was confirmed by analysing the cell migration rate at two different time intervals (24 and 48 h). Overall, the study shows that NL13 peptide scavenges the intracellular oxidative stress.

Wound healing and antimicrobial effect of active secondary metabolites in chitosan-based wound dressings: A review

Wound healing can lead to complex clinical problems, hence finding an efficient approach to enhance the healing process is necessary. An ideal wound dressing should treat wounds at reasonable costs, with minimal inconveniences for the patient. Chitosan is one of the most investigated biopolymers for wound healing applications due to its biocompatibility, biodegradability, non-toxicity, and antimicrobial activity. Moreover, chitosan and its derivative have attracted numerous attentions because of the accelerating wound healing, and easy processability into different forms (gels, foams, membranes, and beads). All these properties make chitosan-based materials particularly versatile and promising for wound dressings. Besides, secondary natural metabolites could potentially act like the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agents and accelerate the healing process. This review collected almost all studies regarding natural compounds applications in wound healing by focusing on the chitosan-based bioactive wound dressing systems. An accurate analysis of different chitosan formulations and the influence of bioactive compounds on their wound healing properties are reported.

In Vitro Evaluation of Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, Antimicrobial and Wound Healing Potential of Thymus Sipyleus Boiss. Subsp. Rosulans (Borbas) Jalas

Thymus sipyleus Boiss. subsp. rosulans (Borbas) Jalas (TS) is a commonly used plant in the treatment of various complaints, including skin wounds in Turkish folk medicine. Despite the widespread traditional use of TS, there is not any scientific report confirming the effectiveness of this plant on the healing process. This research aimed to investigate the effects of different extracts obtained from TS on biological events during wound healing, on a cellular basis. In this context, proliferative activities of the extracts, as well as the effects on wound closure and hydroxyproline synthesis, were determined. In addition to wound healing properties, the antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities of the extracts were evaluated. Decoction (D) and infusion (I) extracts contained the highest amount of phenolic content and showed the most potent activity against DPPH radical. All extracts exhibited complete protection against the damage induced by hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) by increasing cell viability compared to only H₂O₂-treated groups, both in co-treatment and pre-treatment protocols. None of the extracts exhibited cytotoxic activity, and most of the extracts from the TS stimulated fibroblast proliferation and migration. All TS extracts exert anti-inflammatory activity by suppressing the overproduction of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and nitric oxide (NO). The most pronounced activity on hydroxyproline synthesis was observed in D extract. In summary, it was observed that TS extracts can promote the healing process by enhancing fibroblast migration, proliferation and collagen synthesis as well as suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines. The obtained data in this work support the traditional use of TS as a valuable plant-based compound for the treatment of wounds.

An ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used to treat skin diseases in northern Pakistan

Background

Skin diseases are a major health concern especially in association with human immune deficiency syndrome and acquired an immune deficiency. The aim of this study was to document the ethnomedicinal information of plants used to treat skin diseases in Northern Pakistan. This is the first quantitative ethnobotanical study of therapeutic herbs utilized by the indigenous people of Northern Pakistan for skin diseases.

Methods

Interviews were taken to obtain information from 180 participants. Quantitative methods including fidelity level (FL), Frequency of citation (FC), Use-value (UV), Jaccard indices (JI), Family importance value (FIV), Relative frequency of citation (RFC) and Chi-square test were applied. Medicinal plants uses are also compared with 50 national and international publications.

Results

In this study, we recorded 106 plant species belonged to 56 floral families for treatment of skin ailments. The dominant life form reported was herb while the preferred method of utilization was powder, along with leaf as the most used plant part. RFC ranges from 0.07 to 0.25% whereas the highest FIV was recorded for family Pteridaceae. FL values range from 36.8 to 100%. The study reported 88% of new plant reports for the treatment of skin diseases.

Conclusion

The present study revealed the importance of several plants used to treat skin diseases by the local communities of Northern Pakistan. The available literature supported the evidence of plant dermatological properties. Plants having high UV and RFC can be considered for further scientific analysis. There is dire need to create awareness among local, government and scientific communities for the preservation of medicinal species and ethnomedicinal knowledge in Northern Pakistan.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12906-019-2605-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Towards a modern approach to traditional use: in vitro and in vivo evaluation of Alchemilla vulgaris L. gel wound healing potential

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Alchemilla vulgaris is an important remedy in European folk medicine, known for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties; it is traditionally used to heal gynecological and gastrointestinal diseases. Despite its folkloric use in wound healing, there is a lack of scientific data to support this therapeutic application.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To analyze the wound healing potential of different solvent A. vulgaris extracts per se and after incorporation into hydrogels as topical vehicles, using two complementary methods - in vitro wound healing assay with L929 fibroblasts and in vivo assessment of skin barrier repair potential. Besides scientific justification of the traditional usage, we aimed to ephasize the importance of a proper vehicle for herbal extracts. The wound healing activity has been connected to the chemical profile of the investigated extracts, their antioxidative properties, but also to pH of the investigated gels and their mechanical characteristics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Antioxidant activity of investigated extracts was estimated using both 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and β-carotene/linoleic acid models. Chemical profile was achieved applying spectrophotometric and HPLC methods. In vitro scratch assay with L929 fibroblasts, and in vivo study of skin barrier repair potential of hydrogels with A. vulgaris extracts on human skin employing biophysical measurements, were performed in order to confirm the wound healing potential of A. vulgaris. Texture analysis of the gels was performed alongside the pH measurements.

RESULTS

All tested extracts and gels accelerated the wound healing process while the effect of ethanolic extract on migration of fibroblasts was the most pronounced. The highest extent of wound closure was also observed for the ethanolic extract. The most favorable effect on in vitro wound healing was observed for gel with propyleneglycolic extract. Results of in vivo study were in line with in vitro findings. Healing potential may be attributed to phenolic compounds found in A. vulgaris extracts, low pH of the gels, and the satisfying antioxidant activity of the extracts. Parameters obtained by textural analysis indicated satisfying mechanical properties of the gels, relevant to topical application.

CONCLUSION

Our study offers pharmacological evidence on the folkloric use of A. vulgaris in wound treatment, particularly after incorporation into hydrogel, and underlines an importance of a proper vehicle for incorporation of herbal extracts intended for topical treatment.

African Herbal Remedies with Antioxidant Activity: A Potential Resource Base for Wound Treatment

The use of traditional herbal remedies as alternative medicine plays an important role in Africa since it forms part of primary health care for treatment of various medical conditions, including wounds. Although physiological levels of free radicals are essential to the healing process, they are known to partly contribute to wound chronicity when in excess. Consequently, antioxidant therapy has been shown to facilitate healing of such wounds. Also, a growing body of evidence suggests that, at least, part of the therapeutic value of herbals may be explained by their antioxidant activity. This paper reviews African herbal remedies with antioxidant activity with the aim of indicating potential resources for wound treatment. Firstly, herbals with identified antioxidant compounds and, secondly, herbals with proven antioxidant activity, but where the compound(s) responsible for the activity has not yet been identified, are listed. In the latter case it has been attempted to ascribe the activity to a compound known to be present in the plant family and/or species, where related activity has previously been documented for another genus of the species. Also, the tests employed to assess antioxidant activity and the potential caveats thereof during assessment are briefly commented on.

Beneficial Effects of Deoxyshikonin on Delayed Wound Healing in Diabetic Mice

Shiunko ointment is composed of five ingredients including Lithospermi Radix (LR), Angelicae Gigantis Radix, sesame seed oil, beeswax, and swine oil. It is externally applied as a treatment for a wide range of skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, hair loss, burns, topical wounds, and atopic dermatitis. Deoxyshikonin is the major angiogenic compound extracted from LR. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of LR extract and deoxyshikonin on impaired wound healing in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice. Treatment with LR extract elevated tube formation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and exerted antioxidant activity. An open skin wound was produced on the backs of diabetic mice and was then topically treated with deoxyshikonin or vehicle. In addition, deoxyshikonin promoted tube formation in high glucose conditions exposed to HUVECs, and which may be regulated by increased VEGFR2 expression and phosphorylation of Akt and p38. Our results demonstrate that deoxyshikonin application promoted wound repair in STZ-induced diabetic mice. Collectively, these data suggest that deoxyshikonin is an active ingredient of LR, thereby contributing to wound healing in patients with diabetes.

Bio-guided fractionation and isolation of active component from Tragopogon graminifolius based on its wound healing property

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Tragopogon graminifolius (T. graminifolius) from Asteraceae family has been used as a remedy in Persian traditional medicine for the treatment of various disorders such as wound healing.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose of this study is to investigate the compounds of T. graminifolius, which are responsible for its wound healing activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The experiment was performed in three phases; each phase consisted of fractionation of extracts followed by scratch assay. The results of the scratch assay were expressed using scratch closure index (SCI), representing the contraction of scratch.

RESULTS

In phase I, Ethyl acetate fraction (E) showed the maximum SCI (61.7 ± 3.5) that was selected for more fractionation in the next phase. In phase II, 12 fractions were obtained and labeled as fractions E- A to L, respectively. Based on the SCI of fractions, EF (SCI=68.9 ± 0.6) was the most active fraction in phase II and selected for further fractionation in phase III. In phase III, 8 fractions were resulted by fractionation of EF and labeled as EF- 1-8. Fraction EF5 with the highest SCI (30.8 ± 3.0) was the most effective fraction and Luteolin was the main component. Luteolin significantly improved viability of fibroblast cells and increased cell population that was accompanied by decreased cell apoptosis. Luteolin-induced cell number increase in the S and G2M phases of the cell cycle, further confirms the proliferative effect of this compound.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that the total extract and fractions of T. graminifolius stimulate proliferation and migration of skin fibroblast cells and Luteolin is one of the active compounds responsible for these effects.

Comparative Study of Phenolic Profile and Content in Infusions and Concentrated Infusions of Buddleja Scordioides Treated by High-Intensity Pulsed Electric Fields (HiPEF)

The effect of high-intensity pulsed electric fields (HiPEF) has been reported on the microbial resistance of fruit juices and beverages. However, the influence of HiPEF on bioactive compounds in herbal infusions is still limited. The objective of the present work was to evaluate chemical stability of polyphenols of infusions from Buddleja scordioides or Salvilla under thermal processing (concentrates) followed by HiPEF treatments. Buddleja infusions were prepared at 1% w/v of salvilla, heated, filtered and concentrated in a thin falling film evaporator. Three different HiPEF treatments were applied to Buddleja scordioides concentrated beverages. The percentage of pulse rate was 25 and 90%; output temperature, 18.3 ± 1 °C; and the frequency range, 100, 300 and 400 Hz. The feed flow was 0.5 L/h. DPPH radical scavenging assay, inhibition of Nitric Oxide activity and analysis of phenolic acids and flavonoids by UPLC-ESI-MS/MS were determined. ANOVA one-way analysis and Tukey test (p < 0.05) were used to analyze results. Concentration process increases the amount of flavonols; however, the use of HiPEF produces a minor reduction on antioxidant capacity. The use of HiPEF at 1000 kJ/kg and 1100 kJ/kg displays a similar profile on phenolic acids between HiPEF-treated beverages and concentrates, showing that the use of HiPEF may be a promissory technology in the processing practices of herbal infusions.