Anti-hyperalgesic activity of corilagin, a tannin isolated from Phyllanthus niruri L. (Euphorbiaceae)

Acute and Subchronic Toxicological Study of the Cocktail Extract from Curcuma xanthorrhiza Roxb, Phyllanthus niruri L. and Morinda citrifolia L

Curcuma xanthorrhiza Roxb, Phyllanthus niruri L., and Morinda citrifolia L. are Indonesian medicinal herbs used empirically as traditional therapeutics for maintaining health. The cocktail extract of these three plants (CECPM) had been developed and demonstrated immunostimulant activity in rats. This study aimed to evaluate the acute and subchronic toxicity of CECPM in vivo. The acute toxicity assay was conducted by orally administering a range dose of CECPM (313, 625, 1250, 2500, or 5000 mg/kg body weight (bw) on female mice once and then evaluating the toxic symptom every day for 14 days later. The chronic toxicity test was carried out by giving various doses of CECPM (600, 800, and 1000 mg/kg·bw) to female and male rats orally continuously for 90 consecutive days. The signs of toxicities were evaluated at the 90- and 28 days postadministration. The acute oral toxicity assays showed that there was no toxic syndrome and mortality found during the period of the experiment. The lethal dose level (LD50) of CECPM was more than 5000 g/kg, which was categorized as practically non-toxic. Meanwhile, in the sub-chronic toxicity study, some parameters tested at 90 days postadministration and after 28 days of withdrawal, such as the body weight, relative organ weight, food intake, hematological and biochemical blood parameters, and also histopathological examination of five primary tissues (heart, liver, kidney, spleen, and lung) revealed no abnormalities. There was no-observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) for the present study of CECPM 1000 mg/kg·bw of the rat. Therefore, it is concluded that the orally administered CECPM was relatively nontoxic during acute and subchronic toxicology studies.

Corilagin enhances the anti-tumor activity of 5-FU by downregulating the expression of GRP 78

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common malignancies worldwide. Although initially effective, patients who receive chemotherapy ultimately experience various complications and develop chemo-resistance, leading to cancer recurrence. Therefore, we aimed to find a drug with good efficacy and low toxicity that could enhance the treatment with 5-Fluorouracil (a commonly used clinical drug) and reduce its dosing. Corilagin, an anti-tumor natural product, has received widespread attention. Glucose regulated protein 78 (GRP78) is overexpressed in colorectal cancer cells and plays a key role in the proliferation, migration and drug resistance of cancer cells. Importantly, GRP78 can affect the apoptosis induced by 5-fluorouracil in CRC cells. In the present study, we determined the synergistic anti-tumor activity of the combination treatment by cell proliferation assay, apoptosis assay, fluorescent staining, cell cycle analysis, WB and PCR assays. This synergistic effect was associated with S-phase blockade, intracellular reactive oxygen species production and downregulation of GRP78. Taken together, our results indicate that Corilagin acts as a potentiator of 5-fluorouracil and may have therapeutic potential for patients with CRC.

Pyrogallol, Corilagin and Chebulagic acid target the "fuzzy coat" of alpha-synuclein to inhibit the fibrillization of the protein

The accumulation of the intrinsically disordered protein alpha-synuclein (αSyn) in the form of insoluble fibrillar aggregates in the central nervous system is linked to a variety of neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease, Lewy body dementia, and multiple system atrophy. Here we show that Pyrogallol, Corilagin and Chebulagic acid, compounds containing a different number of catechol rings, are independently capable of delaying and reducing the extent of αSyn fibrillization. The efficiency of inhibition was found to correlate with the number of catechol rings. Further, our NMR studies reveal that these compounds interact with the N-terminal region of αSyn which is unstructured even in the fibrillar form of the protein and is known as the "fuzzy coat" of fibrils. Thus, Corilagin and Chebulagic acid target the fuzzy coat of αSyn and not the amyloid core which is a common target for the inhibition of protein fibrillization. Our results indicate that the N-terminus also plays a key role in the fibrillization of αSyn.

Peedanil Gold, Herbo-Mineral Formulation, Moderates Cytokine Levels and Attenuates Pathophysiology in Monosodium Iodoacetate Induced Osteoarthritis in SD Rat Model

The inflammatory cartilaginous degeneration of the articular joints, mostly those of knee, hips and hands, is osteoarthritis (OA). The available treatment strategies for osteoarthritis are designed for pain relief, molecular targeting, cartilage regeneration and surgical intervention. However, meta-analysis of clinical trials has shown these strategies to be sub-optimal, thereby, eliciting a need for investigating alternative options. The herbo-mineral formulation, Peedanil Gold (PN-G) has been used against joint pains and inflammation. In the current study, anti-osteoarthritic effects of PN-G were investigated in rat model of OA, induced by intra-articular injection of monosodium-iodoacetate. PN-G treatment improved the clinical and Kellgren & Lawrence scores; and rescued the osteoarthritic rats from hyperalgesia and allodynia. Besides, PN-G treatment ameliorated joint inflammation and abrogated in vivo osteoarthritic pathology through effective cartilage regeneration, measured radiologically and histopathologically. PN-G also reduced the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), in a dose dependent manner, in inflamed human macrophagic THP-1 cells, thereby, reaffirming its anti-inflammatory property at cytosafe concentrations. Ultra High performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) revealed the presence of several analgesic and anti-inflammatory phytocompounds, like ellagic acid, guggulsterone E, guggulsterone Z, 5-(hydroxymethyl) furfural, corilagin, cinnamic acid, ferulic acid, gallic acid and protocatechuic acid in PN-G. In conclusion, this study has succinctly demonstrated that PN-G is capable of relieving the clinical symptoms of osteoarthritis, which is measurable through the established osteoarthritic serum biomarker, Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein (COMP).

Corilagin exhibits differential anticancer effects through the modulation of STAT3/5 and MAPKs in human gastric cancer cells

Corilagin (CLG) is a hydrolyzable tannin and possesses various pharmacological activities. Here, we investigated the impact of CLG as an anti-tumor agent against human gastric tumor cells. We observed that CLG could cause negative regulation of JAKs-Src-STAT3/5 signaling axis in SNU-1 cells, but did not affect these pathways in SNU-16 cells. Interestingly, CLG promoted the induction of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) signaling pathways in only SNU-16 cells, but not in the SNU-1 cells. CLG exhibited apoptotic effects that caused an increased accumulation of the cells in sub-G1 phase and caspase-3 activation in both SNU-1 and SNU-16 cell lines. We also noticed that CLG and docetaxel co-treatment could exhibit significantly enhanced apoptotic effects against SNU-1 cells. Moreover, the combinations treatment of CLG and docetaxel markedly inhibited cell growth, phosphorylation of JAK-Src-STAT3 and induced substantial apoptosis. Additionally, pharmacological inhibition of JNK, p38, and ERK substantially blocked CLG-induced activation of MAPKs, cell viability, and apoptosis, thereby implicating the pivotal role of MAPKs in the observed anti-cancer effects of CLG. Taken together, our data suggest that CLG could effectively block constitutive STAT3/5 activation in SNU-1 cells but induce sustained MAPKs activation in SNU-16 cells.

Ellagitannin, Phenols, and Flavonoids as Antibacterials from Acalypha arvensis (Euphorbiaceae)

There is a significant need to gain access to new and better antibacterial agents. Acalypha arvensis, a plant from the Euphorbiaceae family, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat infectious diseases. This manuscript reports the isolation, characterization, and antibacterial screening of 8 natural products extracted from maceration of aerial parts of Acalypha arvensis. Specifically, three extracts were assessed (n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol), in which antibacterial activity was evaluated against diverse bacterial strains. The ethanolic extract showed the best activity against methicillin-sensitive and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains, which supports the medicinal properties attributed to this plant. The chromatographic fractions AaR4 and AaR5 were the most bioactive, in which the ellagitannin natural product known as corilagin (1) was identified for the first time in this plant. Therefore, it can be said that this is the main chemical responsible for the observed antibacterial activity. However, we also identified chlorogenic acid (2), rutin (3), quercetin-3-O-glucoside (4), caffeic acid (5), among others (6–8). Hence, this plant can be considered to be a good alternative to treat health-related issues caused by various bacteria.

Anti-nociceptive Activity of Quebracho tannin Extract on Pain Induced by Formalin and Writhing Tests in Mice

Background: Based on positive role of the tannins for pain relief, there is no report for possible antinociceptive activity of the Quebracho tannin. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the anti-nociceptive activity of the Quebracho tannin extract (QTE) on pain in mice. Materials and Methods: For this purpose, 340 mice were used for formalin and writhing tests each including 4 experiments with 4 sub-groups. In experiment 1, mice were injected with saline, QTE (100 mg/kg), QTE (200 mg/kg), QTE (400 mg/kg), and morphine (5 mg/kg). In the second experiment, injections included saline, QTE (400 mg/kg), naloxone (2 mg/kg), and QTE + naloxone. Experiments 3 and 4 were similar to experiment 2, except that mice injected were with NG-nitro arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 10 mg/kg) and cyproheptadine (4 mg/kg) instead of naloxone. Then, formalin (1%) was injected, and time spent for licking the injected paw was recorded until 30 minutes following injection in the first and second phases. Finally, injections in 4 experiment groups were the same, and animals were intraperitoneally injected with acetic acid, and contractions were recorded in the writhing test category. Results: According to the results, QTE (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) decreased pain in the injected paw (P=0.001) and inhibited the pain response by 59.37% (P=0.001). Moreover, the injection of naloxone + QTE significantly decreased pain in the injected paw (P=0.021). Eventually, the injection of the L-NAME + QTE significantly reduced the anti-nociception effect of the QTE on the formalin test (P=0.031) and writhing contractions (55.75%, P=0.033). Conclusion: These findings suggested anti-nociceptive properties of the QTE mediated by opioidergic and nitrergic systems.

Antinociceptive Synergism of Pomegranate Peel Extract and Acetylsalicylic Acid in an Animal Pain Model

Several modern drugs, which are derived from traditional herbal medicine are used in contemporary pharmacotherapy. Currently, the study of drug–plant interactions in pain has increased in recent years, looking for greater efficacy of the drug and reduce side effects. The antinociception induced by intragastric co-administration of the combination of pomegranate peel extract (PoPEx) and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) was assessed using the isobolographic analysis in formalin test (nociceptive and inflammatory pain). The effective dose that produced 30% of antinociception (ED₃₀) was calculated for both drugs from the logarithmic dose–response curves, subsequently generating a curve with the combination on fixed proportions (1:1) of PoPEx and ASA. Through isobolographic analysis, this experimental ED₃₀ was compared with the calculated theoretical additive ED₃₀. The result was a synergistic interaction, the experimental ED₃₀ was significantly smaller (p < 0.05) than the theoretical ED₃₀. The antinociceptive mechanism of the PoPEx-ASA combination involves the l-Arginine/NO/cGMP pathway, antioxidant capacity, and high content of total phenols. These findings suggest that an interaction between PoPEx and ASA could be a novel treatment for inflammatory and nociceptive pain, also diminish the secondary reactions of ASA.

Scale-up approach for supercritical fluid extraction with ethanol-water modified carbon dioxide on Phyllanthus niruri for safe enriched herbal extracts

Scaling-up supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) for the extraction of bioactive compounds from herbal plants is challenging, especially with the presence of alcohol-water as co-solvent. Hence, the main objective of this study is to validate the scale-up criteria of SFE process for Phyllanthus niruri (P. niruri), and analyse the extract safety and profitability process at the industrial scale. The study was performed by using supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO₂) with ethanol-water co-solvent at two operating conditions (L1: 200 bar, 60 °C and L2: 262 bar, 80 °C). The solvent-to-feed ratio (S/F) scale-up validation experiments were conducted at both operating conditions with feed mass capacity of 0.5 kg. The extraction yields and overall extraction curves obtained were almost similar to the predicted ones, with error of 5.13% and 14.2%, respectively. The safety of scale-up extract was evaluated by using a toxicity test against zebrafish embryo (FETT). The extract exhibited a low toxic effect with the LD₅₀ value of 505.71 µg/mL. The economic evaluation using a detailed profitability analysis showed that the SFE of P. niruri was an economically feasible process, as it disclosed the encouraging values of return on investment (ROI) and net present values (NPV) for all scale-up capacities.

Anti-esophageal Cancer Effect of Corilagin Extracted from Phmllanthi Fructus via the Mitochondrial and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Pathways

HEADINGS ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Corilagin (β-1-O-galloyl-3,6-(R)-hexahydroxydiphenoyl-d-glucose) is a tannin isolated from the traditional ethnopharmacological plant Phmllanthi Fructus, which is widely used in not only traditional Chinese medicine but also tropical and subtropical medicine to ameliorate various diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was designed to isolate the potential anti-esophageal cancer (EC) component corilagin from Phmllanthi Fructus and explain its anti-EC mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Corilagin was isolated from Phmllanthi Fructus by extraction and chromatographic procedures, and its anti-esophageal cancer effect was evaluated by in vitro and in vivo experiments. In vitro experiments included MTT analysis, flow cytometry, and the Transwell assay and were used to observe corilagin-mediated inhibition of EC cell growth. Western blotting was used to analyze the apoptotic pathway of EC cells. In vivo experiments used tumor-bearing nude mice to evaluate the antitumor effect of corilagin, and its potential mechanism was explored by Western blotting.

RESULTS

Corilagin showed significant anti-EC activity in vitro and in vivo. Corilagin was significantly cytotoxic to EC cells and induced apoptosis in EC cells. Corilagin induced G0/G1 phase arrest by altering key G0/G1 cell cycle regulatory markers and significantly reducing the migration of EC cells and the number of cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Additionally, corilagin inhibited the growth of transplanted tumors in nude mice without significant toxicity. Regarding the anticancer mechanism of corilagin, the results showed that corilagin inhibited esophageal cancer progression by activating mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum stress signaling pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

Corilagin shows significant anti-EC activity in vitro and in vivo. The mechanism of the anti-EC activity of corilagin may be due to activating mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum stress signaling pathways.

Anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and analgesic activities of Plinia cauliflora (Mart.) Kausel (Brazilian grape) epicarp

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Plinia cauliflora (Mart.) Kausel, known in Brazil as jabuticaba or jaboticaba has been used by Brazilian native populations for medicinal purposes, including those related to inflammatory conditions, such as asthma, diarrhea, disorders in female genitourinary tract, and tonsillitis. Inflammation has emerged as a main factor for the oxidative stress, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia present in chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Such disturbances have been a leading cause of death worldwide for decades, despite significant efforts in developing new therapies. Therefore, strengthening the relevance of ethnobotanic approaches, as P. cauliflora has the potential to become a natural, native, and traditional product to prevent and treat inflammation-associated diseases more effectively for more people.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Evaluate anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and analgesic properties of hydroethanolic extract of P. cauliflora epicarps (PcE).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Phytochemical compound from the PcE were identified through HPLC-DAD-ESI-MSⁿ analysis. Antioxidant activity was determined by measuring 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging. The anti-inflammatory potential was investigated by carrageenan-induced paw edema and peritonitis in mice. Analgesic effect was assessed, in mice, though hot plate test and acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing. Antidiabetic and hypolipidemic potential were evaluated using alloxan-induced diabetic mice.

RESULTS

Tannins, phenolic acids, and their derivatives were the predominant phytochemicals found. Overall, PcE showed different properties related to the treatment of clinical conditions associated with chronic diseases as a potent antioxidant activity, demonstrating a radical scavenging action similar to gallic acid. PcE oral administration also significantly reduced inflammation induced by paw edema and partially blocked leukocyte migration. Moreover, PcE produced peripheral and central analgesic effects, as evaluated in the writhing model and hot plate tests. Treatment with PcE significantly improved glucose levels and lipid markers in diabetic mice.

CONCLUSIONS

P. cauliflora fruits are rich sources of secondary metabolites, mainly tannins and phenolic acids with high biological potential, which can effectively contribute to the approach of preventing and controlling chronic NCDs.

Traditional Applications of Tannin Rich Extracts Supported by Scientific Data: Chemical Composition, Bioavailability and Bioaccessibility

Tannins are polyphenolic compounds historically utilized in textile and adhesive industries, but also in traditional human and animal medicines or foodstuffs. Since 20th-century, advances in analytical chemistry have allowed disclosure of the chemical nature of these molecules. The chemical profile of extracts obtained from previously selected species was investigated to try to establish a bridge between traditional background and scientific data. The study of the chemical composition of these extracts has permitted us to correlate the presence of tannins and other related molecules with the effectiveness of their apparent uses. The revision of traditional knowledge paired with scientific evidence may provide a supporting background on their use and the basis for developing innovative pharmacology and food applications based on formulations using natural sources of tannins. This traditional-scientific approach can result useful due to the raising consumers' demand for natural products in markets, to which tannin-rich extracts may pose an attractive alternative. Therefore, it is of interest to back traditional applications with accurate data while meeting consumer's acceptance. In this review, several species known to contain high amounts of tannins have been selected as a starting point to establish a correlation between their alleged traditional use, tannins content and composition and potential bioaccessibility.

Corilagin Ameliorates Atherosclerosis in Peripheral Artery Disease via the Toll-Like Receptor-4 Signaling Pathway in vitro and in vivo

We investigated if corilagin can ameliorate or reverse atherosclerotic development via the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo. Ana-1 cells or mouse peritoneal macrophages (MPMs) were stimulated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein followed by corilagin treatment. TLR4 expression in Ana-1 cells was upregulated by lentiviral transduction and downregulated by small interfering RNA. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), plasma samples, and femoral arteries were collected from rats exhibiting peripheral artery disease (PAD). mRNA and protein expression of TLR4 and downstream molecules were decreased significantly by corilagin treatment in Ana-1 cells, MPMs, and rat PBMCs, and the reduction remained irrespective of downregulation or upregulation of TLR4 expression in Ana-1 cells. Corilagin also exerted a prominent effect on changes in plasma levels of cytokines and the pathologic manifestation of atherosclerosis in femoral arteries. Corilagin could ameliorate the development of atherosclerotic plaques by inhibiting the TLR4 signaling pathway in monocyte/macrophages and reduce the release of proinflammatory cytokines. This study provides a new therapeutic target and new niche targeting drug to oppose atherosclerosis and reveals the enormous potential of corilagin for control of PAD in humans.

Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effect of Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul.) L.P. Queiroz

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE

Poncianella pyramidalis (Leguminosae) is a Caatinga plant used in folk medicine because of its pharmacological properties, which include anti-inflammatory action. However, chemical compounds responsible for this effect have not yet been identified.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant, antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of the ethyl acetate fraction from the inner bark of P. pyramidalis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Total phenol content (TP) was estimated using the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent, while in vitro antioxidant activity was determined by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assay. Chemical identification was done using LC-PDA/MS and LC-ESI/MS/MS. In vivo antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties were investigated using formalin, mechanical hypernociception and carrageenan-induced pleurisy assays in mice.

RESULTS

TP was 525.08 ± 17.49 μg mg^-1 gallic acid equivalent. The ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) inhibited 87.76% of the DPPH radical with an EC₅₀ of 22.94 μg mL^-1 and Antioxidant Activity Index of 1.74. LC-PDA/MS and LC-ESI/MS/MS identified 15 compounds that are mostly derived from gallic and ellagic acids. Regarding in vivo antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity, EAF (100 mg kg-1) significantly reduced the nociceptive response in the second phase of the formalin assay by 50% (p < 0.01) compared with the control group. In the hypernociception test, a significant (p < 0.001) anti-hyperalgesic effect of EAF (100 mg kg-1) was observed up to the third hour of evaluation (p < 0.001). In the carrageenan assay, EAF (100 mg kg-1) was shown to inhibit protein extravasation, increase total leukocytes and neutrophils, and inhibit mononuclear cells.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate EAF from the inner bark of P. pyramidalis has strong in vitro antioxidant effect as well as in vivo antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities, which may be attributed to the bark being rich in phenolic compounds derived from gallic acid.

Pomegranate as a Potential Alternative of Pain Management: A Review

The use of complementary medicine has recently increased in an attempt to find effective alternative therapies that reduce the adverse effects of drugs. Punica granatum L. (pomegranate) has been used in traditional medicine for different kinds of pain. This review aims to explore the scientific evidence about the antinociceptive effect of pomegranate. A selection of original scientific articles that accomplished the inclusion criteria was carried out. It was found that different parts of pomegranate showed an antinociceptive effect; this effect can be due mainly by the presence of polyphenols, flavonoids, or fatty acids. It is suggested in the literature that the mechanisms of action may be related to the activation of the L-arginine / NO pathway, members of the TRP superfamily (TRPA1 or TRPV1) and the opioid system. The implications for the field are to know the mechanisms of action by which this effect is generated and thus be able to create alternative treatments for specific types of pain, which help alleviate it and reduce the adverse effects produced by drugs. The results propose that pomegranate and secondary metabolites could be considered in the treatment of inflammatory, nociceptive, and neuropathic pain.

Antifungal, Antitumoral and Antioxidant Potential of the Danube Delta Nymphaea alba Extracts

This study aimed to explore for the first time the biological properties such as antifungal, antitumoral and antioxidant of Danube Delta Nymphaea alba (N. alba) leaf and root methanolic extracts. The toxicity studies of N. alba extracts showed no inhibitory effect on wheat seed germination by evaluating the most sensitive physiological parameters (Germination %, Germination index, Vigor index) and using confocal laser scanning microscopy images. The analyzed extracts were found to have high antifungal activity against Candida glabrata with MIC values of 1.717 µg/mL for leaf and 1.935 µg/mL for root. The antitumor activity of the both extracts against A2780/A2780cisR ovarian, LNCaP prostate and MCF-7 breast cancer cells was promising with IC₅₀ values ranging from 23–274 µg/mL for leaf and 18–152 µg/mL for root, and the combination of N. alba extracts with cisplatin showed a synergistic effect (coefficient of drug interaction <1). The antioxidant properties were assessed by β-carotene bleaching, ABTS and FRAP assays and cyclic voltammetry. Quercetin, the most prominent antioxidant, was quantified in very good yields by spectroelectrochemical assay.

Corilagin in Cancer: A Critical Evaluation of Anticancer Activities and Molecular Mechanisms

Corilagin (β-1-O-galloyl-3,6-(R)-hexahydroxydiphenoyl-d-glucose), an ellagitannin, is one of the major bioactive compounds present in various plants. Ellagitannins belong to the hydrolyzable tannins, a group of polyphenols. Corilagin shows broad-spectrum biological, and therapeutic activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and antitumor actions. Natural compounds possessing antitumor activities have attracted significant attention for treatment of cancer. Corilagin has shown inhibitory activity against the growth of numerous cancer cells by prompting cell cycle arrest at the G₂/M phase and augmented apoptosis. Corilagin-induced apoptosis and autophagic cell death depends on production of intracellular reactive oxygen species in breast cancer cell line. It blocks the activation of both the canonical Smad and non-canonical extracellular-signal-regulated kinase/Akt (protein kinase B) pathways. The potential apoptotic action of corilagin is mediated by altered expression of procaspase-3, procaspase-8, procaspase-9, poly (ADP ribose) polymerase, and Bcl-2 Bax. In nude mice, corilagin suppressed cholangiocarcinoma growth and downregulated the expression of Notch1 and mammalian target of rapamycin. The aim of this review is to summarize the anticancer efficacy of corilagin with an emphasis on the molecular mechanisms involving various signaling pathways in tumor cells.

Corilagin Interferes With Toll-Like Receptor 3-Mediated Immune Response in Herpes Simplex Encephalitis

Herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) is the most common infectious disease of the central nervous system worldwide. However, the pathogenesis of HSE is not clear. Research has shown that the immune response mediated by the toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) signaling pathway is essential to protect the central nervous system against herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection. However, an excessive immune response may cause tissue damage accompanied by pathological changes. The aim of this study was to explore the molecular mechanism via which corilagin controls HSE through the TLR3 signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo. Cells and mice were pre-treated with polyriboinosinic polyribocytidylic acid [poly(I:C)] or HSV type 1, and then treated with corilagin. After treatment, the mRNA and protein levels of TLR3, TLR-like receptor-associated interferon factor (TRIF), tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor type 1-associated DEATH domain protein (TRADD), TNF receptor-associated factor (TRAF) 3 and 6, nuclear factor-kappa-B (NF-κB) essential modulator (NEMO), P38, and interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) were decreased. Interleukin-6 (IL-6), TNF-α, and type 1 interferon-β were also decreased. When TLR3 expression was silenced or increased, corilagin still inhibited the expression of TLR3 and its downstream mediators. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and immunohistochemical examinations of mouse brain tissues revealed that corilagin lessened the degree of brain inflammation. Altogether, these results suggest that corilagin may regulate the immune response in HSE and relieve inflammatory injury by interfering with the TLR3 signaling pathway.

Action of corilagin on hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia and oxidative stress in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Diabetes mellitus is the world's most common endocrine disease involving metabolic disorders of carbohydrate, protein and fat. This study was undertaken to investigate the anti-diabetic activity of corilagin, a member of polyphenolic tannins used against hyperglycemia and many other diseases in well-known animal models. Diabetes was induced chemically by intraperitoneal administration of Streptozotocin (40 mg/kg bw) to albino Wistar rats. Diabetic rats showed significant increase in the levels of fasting blood glucose, glycated haemoglobin, total cholesterol, triglyceride, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and a significant decrease in the level of body weight, plasma insulin, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, antioxidant activities, viz. superoxide dismutase, catalase and reduced glutathione when compared to controls. However, after 30 days of oral administration of corilagin (10 and 20 mg/kg bw/day) to these diabetic rats evoked significant alterations in the above mentioned parameters. The effect of corilagin was compared with the standard drug, glibenclamide (0.1 mg/kg body weight/day). Thus, the present study suggests that the corilagin acts as a natural, effective therapeutic agent to regulate diabetes, by exhibiting antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant properties in STZ induced diabetic rats.

Medicinal Plants Used in the Treatment of Mental and Neurological Disorders in Ghana

Ethnopharmacological Relevance

Mental and neurological disorders are a serious public health challenge globally, particularly in developing countries where cultural factors and limited access to standard healthcare have led to a reliance on traditional medicines. However, ethnopharmacological characterization of traditional medicines used to treat these diseases is lacking. In this study, an ethnobotanical description of plant species used in treating mental and neurological disorders in Ghana and an update of their experimentally validated pharmacological relevance are provided.

Materials and Methods

Two hundred herbalists agreed to participate but sixty-six specialized in treating mental and neurological disorders were interviewed on their traditional medical practice. Literature review was conducted to verify the experimentally validated pharmacological importance of the reported plants.

Results

Thirty-two plant species belonging to twenty-eight families were identified. Most plant species had either analgesic (50%), anxiolytic (18.8%), or anticonvulsant (15.6%) properties. Others had reported sedative, anti-Alzheimer's disease, motor coordination, antipsychotic, antidepressant, cognitive enhancement, and neuroprotective properties. While Ageratum conyzoides L. (Asteraceae) and Ocimum gratissimum L. (Lamiaceae) were the most commonly mentioned species with analgesic properties, Lantana camara L. (Verbenaceae) was the most-reported anxiolytic product, with Cymbopogon citratus DC. (Gramineae), Mangifera indica L., Tetrapleura tetraptera Schum Taub. (Fabaceae), and Persea Americana Mill (Lauraceae) being the most studied anticonvulsants.

Conclusions

This study provides the first report specifically on medicinal plants used in treating mental and neurological disorders in Ghana. Most of the identified plants have been scientifically confirmed to possess neuro- and psychopharmacological properties and may serve as templates for drug development.

Metabolic profiling analysis of corilagin in vivo and in vitro using high-performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry

Corilagin is an Ellagitannin with favorable pharmacological activities. But there was no report regarding the metabolism of corilagin in vitro or in vivo. In this study, the metabolic profile of corilagin in rats as well as in rat intestinal bacteria and liver microsomes incubation system in vitro were investigated comprehensively for the first time. Consequently, with the aid of sensitive HPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS, corilagin and its twenty-four metabolites (fourteen phase II conjugate metabolites of corilagin, three hydrolyzed metabolites EA, GA, M3 and their seven derived metabolites) were absolutely or tentatively identified in rat biological samples (urine, feces, plasma and tissues) after oral administration of corilagin. In vitro, the three hydrolyzed metabolites were identified in rat intestinal microflora and liver microsomes. These results demonstrated that corilagin itself not only could underwent extensive phase II metabolism in rats, but also could underwent hydrolysis reaction in rats as well as in rat intestinal bacteria and liver microsomes in vitro. This study is first report to identify phase II conjugate metabolites (except mono-methylate conjugated metabolites) of pure Ellagitannin and distribution of these metabolites in vivo. In addition, clear, detailed metabolic pathways of corilagin were shown to involve hydrolysis, methylation, glycosylation, reduction, glucuronidation and sulfation.

Physiological changes for drought resistance in different species of Phyllanthus

The Phyllanthus genus is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical areas of the world and present several pharmacological applications. Drought is a restrictive factor for crop development and production, and is becoming a severe problem in many regions of the world. The species Phyllanthus amarus and Phyllanthus niruri were subjected to drought stress for varying periods of time (0, 3, 5, 7, and 10 days), and afterwards, leaves were collected and evaluated for physiological and biochemical responses, such as oxidative stress markers and drought-associated defense mechanisms. Results show that P. amarus has an endogenously higher level of variables of the oxidative/antioxidant metabolism, and P. niruri presents the most significant changes in those variables when compared to control and stressed plants. For both Phyllanthus species, drought stress induces higher levels of organic acids such as malic, succinic, and citric acids, and amino acids such as proline, GABA, alanine, and valine. Moreover, P. niruri plants respond with greater glucose and corilagin contents. Therefore, considering the evaluated metabolic changes, P. amarus is better adapted to drought-stress, while P. niruri presents an acclimation strategy that increases the corilagin levels induced by short-term drought stress.

Antinociceptive effectiveness of Tithonia tubaeformis in a vincristine model of chemotherapy-induced painful neuropathy in mice

BACKGROUND

Chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a painful side-effect of commonly used chemotherapeutic agents that profoundly impair the quality of life of patients as the current pharmacotherapeutic strategies are inefficient in providing adequate pain relief. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies are preferred by patients with neuropathic pain as they experience insufficient control of pain with conventional medications. This study describes the antinociceptive effect of Tithonia tubaeformis (Jacq.) Cass. in a vincristine mouse model of established CIPN.

METHODS

Tithonia tubaeformis hydromethanolic extract was tested for preliminary qualitative phytochemical analysis and acute oral toxicity test in mice. The antinociceptive effect was investigated using the abdominal constriction (writhing) and tail immersion tests (25-200 mg/kg). The anti-neuropathic effect was determined in the vincristine mouse model, established by daily administration of vincristine (0.1 mg/kg/day, i.p) for consecutive 14 days. Acute treatment with Tithonia tubaeformis (100 and 200 mg/kg) and the positive control, gabapentin (75 mg/kg) was carried out on the 15th day of the last vincrsitine dose and the animals were tested for allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia at 30-120 min post extract/drug administration.

RESULTS

Vincristine produced significant temporal tactile allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia (P < 0.01 and P < 0.001 on day 7 and 14) and was maintained for the subsequent day (P < 0.001 during 30-120 min). Tithonia tubaeformis was effective in attenuating the vincristine-induced allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia at 100 mg/kg (P < 0.05, P < 0.01) and 200 mg/kg (P < 0.01, P < 0.001). Similarly, gabapentin also showed a robust antinociceptive effect in counteracting the vincristine associated behavioral alterations.

CONCLUSIONS

Tithonia tubaeformis can be an effective CAM therapeutic remedy for established CIPN due to its potential antinociceptive effect in attenuating vincristine-induced neuropathy.

Chemical and biological studies on Bridelia ferruginea grown in Nigeria

Phytochemical investigation of the methanolic extract of dried leaves of Bridelia ferruginea led to the isolation and identification of fourteen compounds (1-14): compound 1 [mixture of palmitic, stearic and oleic acids], stearyl monoester of 2-O-β-ᴅ-glucosylglycerol (2), 6β-hydroxy-(20R)-24-ethylcholest-4-en-3-one (3a), 6β-hydroxy-(20R)-24-ethylcholest-4,22-dien-3-one (3b), lutein (4), vomifoliol (5), corilagin (6), kaempferide-3-O-β-ᴅ-glucoside (7), myricetin (8), isomericitrin (9), isoquercetin (10), myricitrin (11), quercitrin (12), rutin (13), and β-sitosterol glucoside (14). The total extract exhibited moderate activity towards CB2 receptor and 90% inhibition against leishmanial pathogen Trypanosoma brucei. Compound 4 exhibited 73% displacement in CB2 receptor with IC₅₀ 56.47 μM, and 93% inhibition towards T. brucei with IC₅₀ 4.16 μM. Compound 11 showed 99% inhibition towards Escherichia coli with IC₅₀ 1.123 μM.

Hepatoprotective Effects of Corilagin Following Hemorrhagic Shock are Through Akt-Dependent Pathway

Corilagin, a component of Phyllanthus urinaria extract, possesses antioxidant, thrombolytic, antiatherogenic, and hepatoprotective properties, but the mechanism underlying these effects remains unclear. Previous studies showed that the Akt (protein kinase B) signaling pathway exerts anti-inflammatory and organ protective effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism of action of corilagin and determine whether these effects are mediated through the Akt-dependent pathway in a trauma-hemorrhagic shock-induced liver injury rodent model. Hemorrhagic shock was induced in male Sprague–Dawley rats; mean blood pressure was maintained at 35 mm Hg to 40 mm Hg for 90 min, followed by fluid resuscitation. During resuscitation, three doses of corilagin alone (1 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, or 10 mg/kg, intravenously) were administered. Furthermore, a single dose of corilagin (5 mg/kg) with and without Wortmannin (1 mg/kg, PI3K inhibitor), Wortmannin alone, or vehicle was administered. Twenty-four hours after resuscitation, plasma alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase concentration and hepatic parameters were measured. One-way ANOVA was used for statistical analysis. Hepatic myeloperoxidase activity and the concentrations of plasma alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, and cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant-1 (CINC-1) and CINC-3 increased following hemorrhagic shock. These parameters were significantly attenuated in corilagin-treated rats following hemorrhagic shock. Hepatic phospho-Akt expression was also higher in corilagin-treated rats than in vehicle-treated rats. The elevation of phospho-Akt was abolished by combined treatment with Wortmannin and corilagin. Our results suggest that corilagin exerts its protective effects on hemorrhagic shock-induced liver injury, at least, via the Akt-dependent pathway.

Corilagin, a promising medicinal herbal agent

Corilagin, a gallotannin, is one of the major active components of many ethnopharmacological plants. It was isolated from Caesalpinia coriaria (Jacq.) Willd. (dividivi) by Schmidt in 1951 for the first time. In the past few decades, corilagin was reported to exhibit anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective activities, etc. However, little attention was paid to its pharmacological properties due to the complicated and inefficient extract method. In recent years, with the development of extraction technology corilagin was much easier to obtain than before. Thus, people return to pay attention to its anti-tumor, hepatoprotective, and anti-inflammatory activities, particularly as an anti-tumor agent candidate. Our research team had focused on the distribution, preparation and anti-tumor activity of corilagin since 2005. We found corilagin showed good anti-tumor activity on hepatocellular carcinoma and ovarian cancer. What's more, corilagin showed a low level of toxicity toward normal cells and tissues. Due to the extensive attention that corilagin has received, we present a systematic review of the pharmacological effects of corilagin. In this review, we summarized all the pharmacological effects of corilagin with a focus on the molecular mechanism of anti-tumor activity and show you how corilagin affected the signaling pathways of tumor cells as well as its physicochemical properties, distribution and preparation methods.

Quantitative and qualitative analysis for standardization of Euphorbia cuneata Vahl

Euphorbia cuneata Vahl very promising plant belongs to Family Euphorbiaceae The present study was carried out on the Euphorbia cuneata Vahl to standardize its components. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analysis showed variable phytochemical groups. Examination of Successive Extraction showed that there are different color, constancy, phytochemical groups and yield in each extract, the highest percentage was found in ethanol (10.7 ± 1.01) and the lowest one in ether (1.66 ± 0.31). Analysis of primary and secondary metabolites of Euphorbia cuneata Vahl revealed that the primary metabolites percent (carbohydrate, lipid and protein 6.25 ± 1.11, 5.12 ± 1.40, 7.15 ± 1.31 W/w respectively) were lower than secondary metabolites (flavonoids, phenolic and tannins 11.26 ± 1.02, 9.15 ± 1.21and 5.23 ± 1.29 W/w respectively). The Pharmacopoeia Constants were determined. Amino acids analysis of the arial parts reported the presence of 15 amino acids with different percentage in different types. (Total, free and protein hydrolysate.) Arginine represented the highest concentration (20.86).

Characterization of Metabolite Profile in Phyllanthus niruri and Correlation with Bioactivity Elucidated by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Based Metabolomics

Phyllanthus niruri is an important medicinal plant. To standardize the extract and guarantee its maximum benefit, processing methods optimization ought to be amenable and beneficial. Herein, three dried P. niruri samples, air (AD), freeze (FD) and oven (OD), extracted with various ethanol to water ratios (0%, 50%, 70%, 80% and 100%) were evaluated for their metabolite changes using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H-NMR)-based metabolomics approach. The amino acids analysis showed that FD P. niruri exhibited higher content of most amino acids compared to the other dried samples. Based on principal component analysis (PCA), the FD P. niruri extracted with 80% ethanol contained higher amounts of hypophyllanthin and phenolic compounds based on the loading plot. The partial least-square (PLS) results showed that the phytochemicals, including hypophyllanthin, catechin, epicatechin, rutin, quercetin and chlorogenic, caffeic, malic and gallic acids were correlated with antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities, which were higher in the FD material extracted with 80% ethanol. This report optimized the effect of drying and ethanol ratios and these findings demonstrate that NMR-based metabolomics was an applicable approach. The FD P. niruri extracted with 80% ethanol can be used as afunctional food ingredient for nutraceutical or in medicinal preparation.

Preparation of ionic liquid-mediated imprinted monolith for selective capture and purification of corilagin

A method for solid-phase extraction (SPE) of corilagin from natural plant extracts based on molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) was developed. For the preparation of corilagin-MIP monoliths, 4-vinylpyridine was used as functional monomer, and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate was used as cross-linking monomer, using a mixture of 1-butyl-3-methylimidazoliumtetrafluoroborate (ionic liquid)-N,N-dimethylformamide-dimethyl sulfoxide as a porogen. A morphological characteristic of the corilagin imprinted monolith was further studied by scanning electron microscopy and nitrogen sorption method. The greatest imprinting factor of COR was up to 9. The MIPs were used as solid-phase extraction (SPE) sorbents for purification of COR and the mean recoveries of corilagin was 78.0% with COR purity of 98.0% from the crude extract of phyllanthus urinaria L. The resulting COR-imprinted polymer also displayed the good performance of fragment imprinting polymer for gallic acid with the mean recoveries of 94.0% and purity of 99.7%.

Mechanism of Corilagin interference with IL-13/STAT6 signaling pathways in hepatic alternative activation macrophages in schistosomiasis-induced liver fibrosis in mouse model

This study tried to find the mechanism of Corilagin interference with interleukin (IL)-13/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 6 signaling pathways in IL-13-activated liver alternative activation macrophages in schistosomiasis-induced liver fibrosis in Balb/c mice. As a result, IL-13 in serum and the mRNA expression of IL-13 Receptor α1, IL-4 Receptor α and downstream mediators supressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) 1, Kruppel-like factor (KLF) 4, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) δ in the liver tissue were significantly inhibited by Corilagin (P<0.05 or 0.01). The protein expression of IL-13 Receptor α1, IL-4 Receptor α, SOCS1, KLF4, PPARγ, PPARδ and Phospho-STAT6 (P-STAT6) in Corilagin group were also markedly suppressed when compared with the model group (P<0.05 or 0.01). Furthermore, the inhibitory effect was enhanced when the concentration of Corilagin increased (P<0.05). By hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, when compared with the model group, the Corilagin group showed smaller granulomas (P<0.05 or 0.01). The area of positive cells and integrated optical density (IOD) of CD68, CD206 and KLF4 was significantly decreased by Corilagin stained by IHC (P<0.05 or 0.01). In conclusion, Corilagin had potential to relieve hepatic fibrosis caused by egg granuloma in Schistosoma japonicum infection by decreasing the expression of molecules associated with IL-13/STAT6 signaling pathway in liver alternative activation macrophages.

Transport of Corilagin, Gallic Acid, and Ellagic Acid from Fructus Phyllanthi Tannin Fraction in Caco-2 Cell Monolayers

Objective. To investigate the absorption property of the representative hydrolyzable tannin, namely corilagin, and its hydrolysates gallic acid (GA) and ellagic acid (EA) from the Fructus Phyllanthi tannin fraction (PTF) in vitro. Methods. Caco-2 cells monolayer model was established. Influences of PTF on Caco-2 cells viability were detected with MTT assay. The transport across monolayers was examined for different time points, concentrations, and secretory directions. The inhibitors of P-glycoprotein (P-gp), multidrug resistance proteins (MRPs), organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP) and sodium/glucose cotransporter 1 (SGLT1), and tight junction modulators were used to study the transport mechanism. LC-MS method was employed to quantify the absorption concentration. Results. The apparent permeability coefficient (P_app) values of the three compounds were below 1.0 × 10^-6 cm/s. The absorption of corilagin and GA were much lower than their efflux, and the uptake of both compounds was increased in the presence of inhibitors of P-gp and MRPs. The absorption of EA was decreased in the company of OATP and SGLT1 inhibitors. Moreover, the transport of corilagin, GA, and EA was enhanced by tight junction modulators. Conclusion. These observations indicated that the three compounds in PTF were transported via passive diffusion combined with protein mediated transport. P-gp and MRPs might get involved in the transport of corilagin and GA. The absorption of EA could be attributed to OATP and SGLT1 protein.

Development and validation of an UPLC-PDA method for the determination of corilagin in rat plasma and its application to pharmacokinetic study

Corilagin, which was isolated from several medical herbs, has been reported to exert many pharmacological activities. A simple and rapid liquid ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) coupled to photodiode array (PDA) method has been developed to quantify corilagin in rat plasma. In this study, plasma samples were prepared by ethyl acetate extraction. Separation was performed on a HSS T3 (100mm×2.1mm, 1.8μm) column by using a mobile phase of acetonitrile and water with 0.1% trifluoroacetic acid (v/v). Corilagin and internal standard epicatechin were detected at a wavelength of 266nm. The calibration curve was linear (r>0.998) over a concentration range of 0.2μg/mL to 20μg/mL with a lower quantification limit of 0.2μg/mL. Both intra and inter-day precision values were within 5.7% and extraction recovery were greater than 81.0%. Stability tests showed that corilagin and IS remained stable during the analytical procedure. The validated UPLC-PDA method was then used to analyze the pharmacokinetics of corilagin administered to rats intravenously (10mg/kg) or orally (50mg/kg). Oral bioavailability of corilagin was calculated to be 10.7%, indicating that this component is not suitable for oral administration. The results provide basis for further preclinical studies on corilagin.

The pharmacological potential of Phyllanthus niruri

INTRODUCTION

Phyllanthus niruri is a traditional shrub of the genus Phyllanthaceae with long-standing Ayurvedic, Chinese and Malay ethnomedical records. Preliminary studies from cell and animal model have provided valuable scientific evidence for its use.

AIM

This review aims to summarize selected scientific evidence on the pharmacological properties of P. niruri over the past 35 years while identifying potential areas of further development of this herb as an economical adjunct.

METHODS

The review covers literature pertaining to the evidence base therapeutic potential of P. niruri spanning from 1980 to 2015 available on PubMed.

RESULTS

Evidence suggests that the extracts of P. niruri possess hepatoprotective, antiviral, antibacterial, hypolipidaemic, hypoglycaemic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, anti-urolithiatic and antihyperuricaemic properties due its novel bioactive compounds.

CONCLUSION

Scientific evidence suggests that there is strong pharmacological potential in developing P. niruri as a drug to be used in liver disorders and in antiviral therapy. Despites this, large-scale heterogeneity in study protocol and unstandardized reporting standards limit the ability for valuable comparison and may mask the ability to replicate these studies. Thus interpretation of findings should be performed with caution and further studies should be performed in line with best practices. More cheminformatics, toxicological and mechanistic studies would aid the progress to clinical trial studies.

The Genus Phyllanthus: An Ethnopharmacological, Phytochemical, and Pharmacological Review

The plants of the genus Phyllanthus (Euphorbiaceae) have been used as traditional medicinal materials for a long time in China, India, Brazil, and the Southeast Asian countries. They can be used for the treatment of digestive disease, jaundice, and renal calculus. This review discusses the ethnopharmacological, phytochemical, and pharmacological studies of Phyllanthus over the past few decades. More than 510 compounds have been isolated, the majority of which are lignins, triterpenoids, flavonoids, and tannins. The researches of their remarkable antiviral, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anticancer activities have become hot topics. More pharmacological screenings and phytochemical investigations are required to support the traditional uses and develop leading compounds.

Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of Geranium bellum and its isolated compounds

BACKGROUND

Geranium bellum Rose, locally known as "Pata de león", is a perennial plant distributed in the mountains of Hidalgo, Mexico. It is widely used in Mexican traditional medicine to treat fever, pain, and gastrointestinal disorders. To date, there are not published studies regarding the in vivo antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory potential of the acetone-aqueous extract from the aerial parts of G. bellum.

METHODS

Antinociceptive effects of the acetone-aqueous G. bellum (AGB) extract and the isolated compounds were assessed using experimental pain models, including thermal nociception like hot plate test, and chemical nociception induced by intraperitoneal acetic acid or subplantar formalin injection in vivo. The anti-inflammatory properties of the extract were studied using systemic administration in carrageenan-induced paw edema.

RESULTS

Intra-gastric administration of AGB (75, 150, and 300 mg/kg) showed a dose-dependent antinociceptive effect in intraperitoneal acetic acid (writhing), thermal nociception in CD1 mice, and subplantar formalin models, as well as anti-inflammatory effect in carrageenan- induced paw edema in Wistar rats. Geraniin and quercetin showed the highest antinociceptive activity in writhing test, whereas ellagic acid was the most active compound in the hot plate model.

CONCLUSION

These studies provide evidences that G. bellum shows antinociceptive and anti- inflammatory effects, and gives support to its use in treating pain in Mexican traditional medicine.

Molecular Docking Studies of Phytocompounds from the Phyllanthus Species as Potential Chronic Pain Modulators

The study of inflammatory pain has been one of the most rapidly advancing and expanding areas of pain research in recent years. Studies from our lab have demonstrated the chronic pain-modulating potential of the Phyllanthus species and their probable interaction with various inflammatory mediators involving enzymes like COX-2 and PGE synthase, cytokines like TNF-alpha and IL-1 beta, and with the NMDA receptor. Inflammatory mediators which play a crucial role in chronic inflammatory hyperalgesia and its subsequent modulation were selected for their interactions with 86 structurally diverse phytoconstituents identified from the Phyllanthus species.

The docking analysis of the target proteins with the phytochemical ligands was performed using VLifeMDS software. The docking scores and analysis of the interactions of the phytocompounds with target proteins suggest that important molecules like lupeol, phyllanthin, hypopyllanthin, corilagin, epicatechin, and most of the other compounds have the ability to bind to multiple targets involved in inflammatory hyperalgesia.

Our study strongly suggests that the findings of the present study could be exploited in the future for designing ligands in order to obtain novel molecules for the treatment and management of chronic pain.

Action of Aqueous Extracts of Phyllanthus niruri L. (Euphorbiaceae) leaves on Meristematic Root Cells of Allium cepa L

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of aqueous extracts of dried Phyllanthus niruri L. (stonebreaker) leaves on Allium cepa L. root meristem cells at four concentrations, 0.02 (usual concentration), 0.04, 0.06 and 0.08mg/mL and exposure times of 24 and 48 hours. For each concentration we used a group of five onion bulbs that were first embedded in distilled water and then transferred to their respective concentrations. The radicles were collected and fixed in acetic acid (3:1) for 24 hours. The slides were prepared by the crushing technique and stained with 2% acetic orcein. Cells were analyzed throughout the cell cycle, totaling 5000 for each control and exposure time. The calculated mitotic indices were subjected to the Chi-squared statistical analysis (p<0.05). From the results obtained it was observed that all four concentrations tested had significant antiproliferative effect on the cell cycle of this test system. We also found the presence of cellular aberrations such as colchicined metaphases, anaphasic and telophasic bridges, and micronuclei in the two exposure times for all concentrations evaluated. Therefore, under the conditions studied the concentrations of aqueous extracts of leaves of P. niruri showed to be cytotoxic and genotoxic.

Antiviral effects of Phyllanthus urinaria containing corilagin against human enterovirus 71 and Coxsackievirus A16 in vitro

Human enterovirus 71 (EV71) and Coxsackievirus A16 (CA16) are major causative agents of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) especially in infants and children under 5 years of age. Despite recent outbreaks of HFMD, there are no approved therapeutics against EV71 and CA16 infection. Moreover, in a small percentage of cases, the disease progression can lead to serious complications of the central nervous system. In this study, we investigated the antiviral effect of corilagin and Phyllanthus urinaria extract, which contains corilagin as a major component, on EV71 and CA16 infection in vitro. Our results indicate that corilagin reduces the cytotoxicity induced by EV71 or CA16 on Vero cells with and IC50 value of 5.6 and 32.33 μg/mL, respectively. We confirmed the presence of corilagin in EtOAc and BuOH fractions from P. urinaria extract and this correlated with antiviral activity of the fractions against EV71 or CA16. Future studies will be required to confirm the antiviral activity of corilagin and P. urinaria extract in vivo. Challenging a model with a lethal dose of viral infection will be required to test this. Collectively, our work provides potential candidates for the development of novel drugs to treat HFMD.