Cytochrome P450 inhibitory potential and RP-HPLC standardization of trikatu--a Rasayana from Indian Ayurveda

Ethnopharmacological validation of Karkataka Taila-An edible crab Rasayana in rotenone-induced in vitro and in vivo models of Parkinson's disease

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

'Karkataka Taila (KT), an ancient Ayurvedic Rasayana comprising the edible freshwater crab Scylla serrata Forskal flesh, is still used by local traditional practitioners in Kerala state to treat tremors and palsy. In the scientific community, it becomes less exposed due to the lack of adequate scientific validations and brief reports. There has been no published research on the effectiveness of KT in treating Parkinson's disease (PD).

PURPOSE

The purpose of the current research work was to investigate the anti-Parkison's potential of KT against rotenone-induced neurotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cell lines and rat model of PD and investigate underlying molecular mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The components of KT have been identified by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). The neuroprotective activity of KT was assessed using SH-SY5Y cell lines and rats against rotenone-induced PD. The parameters used for asses the neuroprotection are antioxidant markers (ROS and SOD), anti-inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, and nitrite), and dopamine levels. Behavioral evaluation and rat brain histopathology were carried out to further support the neuroprotection.

RESULT

Analysis using GC-MS revealed 36 constituents in KT. In vitro, the KT displayed considerable neuroprotective effects in terms of decreasing oxidative stress (ROS and SOD), neuroinflammation (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, and nitrite), and elevating dopamine concentration. In vivo data showing improvements in histopathological and biochemical parameters confirmed the in vitro study findings, and in terms of behavioral assays, KT displayed significant activity.

CONCLUSION

GC-MS profiling was used to identify the bioactive compounds of KT with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. As a result, they may be responsible for the therapeutic effects of KT on PD.

Evaluation of pharmacokinetic herb-drug interaction of diabecon and losartan by UHPLC-MS/MS

The diabecon is an ayurvedic herbal formulation that contains a mixture of herbs traditionally used as antidiabetic which is reported in the ayurvedic pharmacopeia of India and Indian Materia medica. The diabetic population has a common co-morbidity of hypertension for which losartan drug is commonly used for the treatment of hypertension. However, there is a lack of research on the pharmacokinetics interaction between diabecon and losartan. This research aims to investigate the influence of diabecon on the pharmacokinetics of losartan drugs in rats by establishing a highly sensitive ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method. The method was validated according to the USFDA guidelines and was applied for the pharmacokinetic study. The lowest concentration of losartan detection in rat plasma was found to be 1 ng/mL and the accuracy and precision were within the linear range (1-1500 ng/mL). The results revealed that after 28 days of dosing diabecon, it has altered the pharmacokinetic parameters like area under the curve (AUC0-t), drug clearance (Cl/F), and rate of elimination (Ke) of losartan, which may happen due to enzyme induction. Although there was a change in the pharmacokinetic parameters of losartan when administered in the presence of diabecon, it was found to be nonsignificant in rats (p > 0.05). According to the best of our knowledge, this is the first article that discusses the pharmacokinetic herb-drug interaction between diabecon and losartan.

Rapid quality assessment and traceability of ginger powder from Northeast India and Indian market based on near infrared spectroscopic fingerprinting

INTRODUCTION

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) varies widely due to varying concentrations of phytochemicals and geographical origin. Rapid non-invasive quality and traceability assessment techniques ensure a sustainable value chain.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is the development of suitable machine learning models to estimate the concentration of 6-gingerol and check traceability based on the spectral fingerprints of dried ginger samples collected from Northeast India and the Indian market using near-infrared spectrometry.

METHODS

Samples from the market and Northeast India underwent High Performance Liquid Chromatographic analysis for 6-gingerol content estimation. Near infrared (NIR) Spectrometer acquired spectral data. Quality prediction utilized partial least square regression (PLSR), while fingerprint-based traceability identification employed principal component analysis and t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (t-SNE). Model performance was assessed using RMSE and R2 values across selective wavelengths and spectral fingerprints.

RESULTS

The standard normal variate pretreated spectral data over the wavelength region of 1,100-1,250 nm and 1,325-1,550 nm showed the optimal calibration model with root mean square error of calibration and R2 C (coefficient of determination for calibration) values of 0.87 and 0.897 respectively. A lower value (0.24) of root mean square error of prediction and a higher value (0.973) of R2 P (coefficient of determination for prediction) indicated the effectiveness of the developed model. t-SNE performed better clustering of samples based on geographical location, which was independent of gingerol content.

CONCLUSION

The developed NIR spectroscopic model for Indian ginger samples predicts the 6-gingerol content and provides geographical traceability-based identification to ensure a sustainable value chain, which can promote efficiency, cost-effectiveness, consumer confidence, sustainable sourcing, traceability, and data-driven decision-making.

An integrative ayurvedic approach in management of breast abscess - A case report

A focus has been placed particularly on the description of breast abscesses (sthana vidradhi in Ayurveda terms). Breast inflammation known as mastitis has the potential to develop into a breastabscess in the future. The term "stana roga," refers to breast disorders and describes breast abscesses, is mentioned in the ancient works Sushruta Samhita, Madhava Nidana, and Bhavaprakasha. Breast abscesses are typically treated surgically by making an incision over the area of greatest fluctuation (or pain) and breaking the abscess septa with digits. For a few days, the abscess chamber is left untreated or gauze-packed, with dressing changes made as needed to facilitate wound granulation. The current report was aimed at management of the breast abscess through an integrated approach comprising surgical and medicinal intervetions as mentioned in Ayurveda classics. A 32-year-old female patient with pain and swelling in right breast was diagnosed with breast abscess in Shalya (Surgery) OPD and managed primarily by incision and drainage which was followed by regular dressing and ayurvedic medications which encouraged appreciable granulation in a short period of time with complete healing of the abscess. This case study presents the successful management of breast abscesses with both surgical & Ayurvedic management.

Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis: a systematic review of randomized and non-randomized trials

OBJECTIVES

This article provides a comprehensive systematic review and qualitative analysis of the current research investigating Ayurveda chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) treatment.

CONTENT

PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews was followed and our search utilized MEDLINE, Embase, Ayush Portal, and Cochrane Library databases. Articles published prior to March 2022, 10 or more patients that investigated Ayurveda as a treatment for CRS in humans were included. This resulted in thirteen articles meeting inclusion criteria. Ayurvedic treatments included herbal medications for oral consumption, nasal instillation, and steam inhalation used alone or in combination. All studies concluded that Ayurvedic therapy led to improvements in subjective CRS symptoms and objective radiographic and hematologic criteria. However, all 13 studies had a significant risk of bias due to study design and statistical methods utilized.

SUMMARY

Ayurvedic therapy may be a useful CRS treatment for some patients and overall appears to be well tolerated. However, definitive recommendation for when Ayurvedic treatments would be beneficial in the treatment of CRS remains not possible.

OUTLOOK

Given the overall positive effects shown in the current published evidence and growing interest in complementary and integrative therapies, Ayurvedic treatments for CRS deserve further investigation in the form of well-designed controlled trials.

6-Gingerol contents of several ginger varieties of Northeast India and correlation of their antioxidant activity in respect to phenolics and flavonoids contents

INTRODUCTION

Ginger constitutes the rhizome part of the plant Zingiber officinale from the Zingiberaceae family. A large number of ginger varieties with high sensorial and functional quality are found in Northeast India. Hence, phytopharmacological screening of different ginger varieties is essential that will serve as a guideline in applied research to develop high-end products and improve economical margins.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the variation in total phenolics content (TPC), total flavonoids content (TFC), and antioxidant activities and correlate that with 6-gingerol contents of different ginger varieties collected from Northeast India using Pearson's correlation analysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The TPC and TFC values were determined using standard methods. Antioxidant activities were measured using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydroxyl radical scavenging assays, while reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) analysis was utilised for quantitative determination of 6-gingerol content.

RESULTS

The result revealed that ginger variety 6 (GV6) contains the highest 6-gingerol content and TPC value showing maximum antioxidant activity, followed by GV5, GV4, GV9, GV3, GV2, GV8, GV1, and GV7. The findings also suggested that the antioxidant activity has much better correlations with TPC as compared with TFC values. Pearson's correlation analysis showed a significant correlation between 6-gingerol contents and TPC values.

CONCLUSION

This work underlines the importance of ginger varieties from Northeast India as a source of natural antioxidants with health benefits.

Amelioration of cyclophosphamide-induced DNA damage, oxidative stress, and hepato- and neurotoxicity by Piper longum extract in rats: The role of γH2AX and 8-OHdG

Background: The identification of genoprotectants is a promising strategy for improving human health. Piper longum has drawn scientific attention because of its diverse biological effects and traditional utilization. The current investigation aims to evaluate the genome-stabilizing potential of Piper longum against cyclophosphamide-associated genotoxicity.

Methods: We adopted a funnel screening with a three-tier evaluation approach, where Piper longum was investigated in an acellular medium, peripheral blood lymphocytes, and a rodent model. The genoprotective action of the Piper longum extract was initially performed with plasmid pBluescript SK(-) DNA. Furthermore, the extract and various fractions were screened against cyclophosphamide-induced genotoxicity using a cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay and a chromosomal aberration assay in human peripheral blood lymphocytes. The genome-stabilizing action of the extract and potent (hexane) fraction was further confirmed in vivo in Wistar albino rats by evaluating them using mammalian erythrocyte micronucleus tests, DNA fragmentation, oxidative stress markers, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), γH2AX, and histopathological lesions in the liver and hippocampus. Additionally, acute and sub-acute toxicity studies were conducted following the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) guidelines for rats. Furthermore, the extract was quantified and characterized by high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC), ultra-high performance liquid chromatography–mass spectroscopy (UPLC-MS), and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

Results: The Piper longum ethanol extract was shown to protect plasmid pBluescript SK(-) DNA against H2O2-induced strand breaks. In human lymphocytes, the extract and hexane fraction showed a reduction in micronucleus formation (p < 0.001) and chromosomal aberrations (p < 0.01) against cyclophosphamide. Furthermore, the extract and fraction treatment, when administered at 200 mg/kg for 28 days in Wistar rats, restored cyclophosphamide-induced genomic instability by reducing micronucleus formation and DNA fragmentation; restoring redox homeostasis; decreasing 8-OHdG, a hallmark of oxidative DNA damage; reducing γH2AX, a DNA double-strand break (DSB) marker; and preserving the liver and hippocampus against histopathological lesions. The extract and fraction revealed no signs of systemic toxicity at the used doses. Piperine and piperlongumine are the major alkaloids quantified along with the presence of flavonoids in the ethanol extract and the presence of fatty acids and terpenoids in the hexane fraction of Piper longum.

Conclusion: Our investigation confirms the genoprotective action of Piper longum by reducing cyclophosphamide-associated cytogenotoxicity, oxidative stress, hepato- and neurotoxicity, oxidative DNA damage, and DNA double-strand breaks. The outcomes are critical for mitigating the genotoxic effects of chemotherapy recipients, requiring further attention.

Deciphering the impact and mechanism of Trikatu, a spices-based formulation on alcoholic liver disease employing network pharmacology analysis and in vivo validation

Trikatu Churna (TC) comprising Zingiber officinale rhizome, Piper longum, and Piper nigrum fruit, is effective in treating liver diseases and has high nutraceutical values. However, the efficacy of TC in treating alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and its mechanism remain largely unknown. This study evaluated the hepatoprotective effects of different doses of TC as well as to identify the bioactive components and determine their mechanism of action against ethanol-induced ALD. A compound-target network analysis model of TC was established to identify its potential bioactive compounds and pathways that might regulate its hepatoprotective effects. Further, in-vivo studies were performed to validate the potential of TC (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg b.w.) in the treatment and management of ALD. The study revealed that both the dosages of TC demonstrate significant (p > 0.0001) hepatoprotective effects by improving body weight, total bilirubin, serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), serum alkaline phosphate (ALP), total cholesterol, total protein, globulin, albumin, and liver morphology. The High-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprinting of TC showed the presence of piperine. Network pharmacology identifies the role of TC in regulating various signaling processes including Advanced glycation end products-receptor for advanced glycation end products (AGE-RAGE), Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIF-1), Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-Kappa B), and Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) signaling to exert its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-apoptotic role in managing ALD. Based on the bioinformatics analysis, some of the key targets of TC were found to be Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthase 2 (PTGS2) or Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), Sirtuin 1 (SRT1), and caspase-3. These effects may serve as a novel therapeutic option for the treatment of ALD. These preclinical validation studies for the ethnopharmacological potential of TC in ALD treatment further paved the way for researchers to perform next-level translational and clinical studies. Further, in-depth experimental studies for the validation of these bioinformatics-based results will give a clearer picture of mechanisms.

Drug-Herb Interactions among Thai Herbs and Anticancer Drugs: A Scoping Review

More than half of Thai patients with cancer take herbal preparations while receiving anticancer therapy. There is no systematic or scoping review on interactions between anticancer drugs and Thai herbs, although several research articles have that Thai herbs inhibit cytochrome P450 (CYP) or efflux transporter. Therefore, we gathered and integrated information related to the interactions between anticancer drugs and Thai herbs. Fifty-two anticancer drugs from the 2020 Thailand National List of Essential Medicines and 75 herbs from the 2020 Thai Herbal Pharmacopoeia were selected to determine potential anticancer drug–herb interactions. The pharmacological profiles of the selected anticancer drugs were reviewed and matched with the herbal pharmacological activities to determine possible interactions. A large number of potential anticancer drug–herb interactions were found; the majority involved CYP inhibition. Efflux transporter inhibition and enzyme induction were also found, which could interfere with the pharmacokinetic profiles of anticancer drugs. However, there is limited knowledge on the pharmacodynamic interactions between anticancer drugs and Thai herbs. Therefore, further research is warranted. Information regarding interactions between anticancer drugs and Thai herbs should provide as a useful resource to healthcare professionals in daily practice. It could enable the prediction of possible anticancer drug–herb interactions and could be used to optimize cancer therapy outcomes.

Synergistic effect of ursolic acid and piperine in CCl4 induced hepatotoxicity

BACKGROUND

Ursolic acid (UA) is a potent plant-based hepatoprotective agent having poor bioavailability, which hampers its therapeutic efficacy. The present study tries to overcome this limitation by combining it with piperine (PIP), a proven bioenhancer and hepatoprotective agent.

METHODS

The type of interaction (synergism, addition, or antagonism) resulting between UA and PIP was analyzed and quantified by isobologram and combination index analysis. The hepatoprotective activity of UA and PIP was evaluated by measuring the level of hepatic marker enzymes. Pharmacokinetic analysis was carried out to ascertain the improvement of bioavailability.

RESULTS

The combinations significantly decrease the enzyme levels, which indicate better hepatoprotective activity compared to single drugs. The relative oral bioavailability of UA was increased about tenfold (from AUC0-t =12.78 ± 2.59 µg/h/ml to 125.15 ± 1.84 µg/h/ml) along with the improvement of plasma concentration and elimination half-life.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicated that the combination of PIP and UA is an effective strategy in enhancing the bioavailability and hepatoprotective potential of UA.KEY MESSAGESUrsolic acid in a combination with piperine provides a synergistic hepatoprotective effect in carbon tetrachloride induced liver damage in rats.Piperine improves the pharmacokinetic properties of ursolic acid when given in combination.Piperine improves the relative oral bioavailability of ursolic acid by tenfold when combined together.

Is Trikatu; an ayurvedic formulation effective for the management of flu-like illness? A narrative review

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this review is to summarise and appraise the findings of various studies on Trikatu.

CONTENT

COVID-19 or SARS-CoV-2 disease a pandemic principally contaminating the respiratory tract and bringing about Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome is liable for significant mortality around the world. Far-fetched, there is no exact treatment accessible till today. Consequently, it is critical to discover the alternative methodology which can decrease the weight of illness. Trikatu powder recommended by authorities for the management of mild cases of COVID-19 is a conventional ayurvedic formulation containing three spices; Zingiber officinale, Piper nigrum, and Piper longum. A comprehensive search of the articles published since inception to 01/08/2020 on Trikatu was carried out. Major electronic medical databases such as Pub Med/MEDLINE and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were used for the literature search.

SUMMARY

A total of 21 records were identified by electronic searches between since inception to 01/08/2020 of which 13 records were included for review. The reviewed articles highlight Trikatu as a safe, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulatory property by suppression of the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-a, IL-1b, IL-6, IL-17, alteration in levels of circulating immune complexes, anti-dyslipidaemia agent by reduced triglycerides and LDL cholesterol and increased HDL cholesterol, enhancing bio-availability of co-drug by reducing the elimination half-life (t1/2β) and zero time intercept of the elimination phase.

OUTLOOK

The findings of this review seem to show Trikatu as a potential anti-inflammatory, anti-dyslipidaemia, and immune-modulatory ayurvedic formulation can be used for combating flu like illnesses and also in the management of COVID-19 as an adjuvant. However, rigorous double blind randomized controlled trials with larger sample size are warranted for better validation in such clinical conditions.

HIGHLIGHTS

– COVID-19 has affected the lives of millions worldwide and unfortunately no precise treatment available till today. – Trikatu an ayurvedic formulation suggested by various authorities in India. – Trikatu found to be a potential anti-inflammatory; anti-dyslipidaemia and immune-modulatory drug can be used for combating flu like illnesses.

1H nuclear magnetic resonance-based metabolite profiling of guava leaf extract: an attempt to develop a prototype for standardization of plant extracts

Background

Herbal medicines are fast gaining popularity. However, their acceptability by modern practitioners is low which is often due to lack of standardization. Several approaches towards standardization of herbals have been employed. The current study attempted to recognize key peaks from ¹H NMR spectra which together would comprise of a spectral fingerprint relating to efficacy of Psidium guajava (guava) leaf extract as an antidiarrhoeal when a number of unidentified active principles are involved.

Methods

Ninety samples of guava leaves were collected from three locations over three seasons. Hydroalcoholic (water and ethanol, 50:50) extracts of these samples were prepared and their ¹H NMR spectra were acquired. Spectra were also obtained for quercetin, ferulic acid and gallic acid as standards. Eight bioassays reflecting different stages of diarrhoeal pathogenesis were undertaken and based on pre-decided cut-offs, the extracts were classified as ‘good’ or ‘poor’ extracts. The bioactivity data was then correlated with the ¹H NMR profiles using Regression or Orthogonal Partial Least Square-Discriminant Analysis (OPLS-DA).

Results

OPLS-DA showed seasonal and regional segregation of extracts. Significant models were established for seven bioassays, namely those for anti-bacterial activity against Shigella flexneri and Vibrio cholerae, adherence of E. coli, invasion of E. coli and S. flexneri and production and binding of toxin produced by V. cholerae. It was observed that none of the extracts were good or bad across all the bioassays. The spectral analysis showed multiple peaks correlating with a particular activity. Based on NMR and LC-MS/MS, it was noted that the extracts contained quercetin, ferulic acid and gallic acid. However, they did not correlate with the peaks that segregated extracts with good and poor activity.

Conclusions

The current study identified key peaks in ¹H NMR spectra contributing to the anti-diarrhoeal activity of guava leaf extracts. The approach of using spectral fingerprinting employed in the present study can thus be used as a prototype towards standardization of plant extracts with respect to efficacy.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-021-03221-5.

Metabolite profiling and evaluation of CYP450 interaction potential of 'Trimada'- an Ayurvedic formulation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Trimada is well-known polyherbal Ayurvedic formulation used in Indian Traditional medicine since ancient times. It consisted of three inebriant herbs including "Chitraka" (Plumbago zeylanica Linn. Family- Plumabaginaceae), "Musta" (Cyperus rotundus Linn. Family- Cyperaceae) and Vidanga (Embelia ribes Burm. F. Family- Myrsinaceae) in equal ratios as mentioned in Ayurveda. Trimada is traditionally used to increase the functioning of the digestive system and metabolism. Along with these, it also assists in the reduction of cholesterol as well as reduces stomach aches and chest pain.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study is aimed to identify the metabolites present in this polyherbal formulation. Further, the cytotoxicity and interaction potential of the formulation and individual herbs with Cytochrome P450 isozymes (CYP3A4, 2D6, 2C9, 1A2) was evaluated by MTT assay and CYP450 enzyme inhibition. The concentration of heavy metals was also determined.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS) analysis was performed to detect and identify the phytoconstituents in the formulation. Cytotoxicity of the formulation was evaluated by MTT assay. CYP450 enzyme interaction potential of the individual herbs and the Trimada formulation was carried out through CYP-CO assay and fluorometric high throughput screening (HTS) assay for individual isozymes. The content of heavy metal in the formulation was quantified by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy.

RESULTS

Trimada formulation exhibited lower cytotoxicity to human liver carcinoma cell line (HepG2). CYP-CO assay revealed that the interaction potential of individual herbs and Trimada on the liver microsomes was found to be lesser than the standard inhibitor ketoconazole. Individual herbs and Trimada formulation displayed higher IC₅₀ values than the respective standard inhibitors in the fluorimetric assay. UPLC-QTOF-MS analysis showed the presence of a number of active phytoconstituents including sesquiterpenes, phenolic acids, benzoquinones, triterpenes and flavonoids. The heavy metal concentration in the traditional medicinal herbal formulation was found within the approved limit.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggested that the individual herbs and Trimada formulation exhibited low cytotoxicity and contributes insignificant interaction with CYP450 isozymes. So, the formulation is considered to be safe for its therapeutic management without any potential drug interaction involving CYP 450 isozymes.

Clinical Pharmacokinetic Drug Interaction Potential of MenoAct851 in Adult, Female Healthy Volunteers

BACKGROUND

MenoAct851 (Varanasi BioResearch Pvt. Ltd., Varanasi, India) is a patented polyherbal formulation developed to manage menopause symptoms that can be taken along with other allopathic medicines.

OBJECTIVE

The present study aims to evaluate the drug interaction potential of MenoAct851 to inhibit cytochrome (CY) P450 in vitro in rats, and to measure its effects on simvastatin pharmacokinetic parameters in healthy human volunteers.

METHODS

CYP450-carbon monoxide assay of MenoAct851 was performed in rat liver microsomes to calculate the percentage inhibition. Fluorometric assays of CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 determined half maximal inhibitory concentration value. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled drug interaction study of MenoAct851 was conducted in 24 healthy adult female volunteers aged 25 to 50 years. The selected volunteers were randomized to receive placebo or MenoAct851 500 mg BID PO for 14 days. On the 15th day, each group received 40 mg single-dose simvastatin. Blood samples were drawn at different intervals to measure simvastatin pharmacokinetic parameters.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) CYP450 concentration of the diluted microsome sample was calculated and found to be 0.405 (0.12) nmol/mg. The inhibitory potential of MenoAct851 (41.16% [1.24%]) was found to be less than ketoconazole. Half maximal inhibitory concentration values of MenoAct851 on CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 were 11.96 (1.04) µg/mL and 15.24 (0.58) µg/mL, respectively, but they were higher than respective positive controls. There was no statistically significant difference between MenoAct851 and placebo groups concerning the pharmacokinetic parameters such as Cmax, Tmax, t½, and mean residence time of simvastatin; however, AUC showed a significant difference (P < 0.05) between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

MenoAct851 produced weaker interaction potential with CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 substrates based on in vitro assays, but the findings of clinical pharmacokinetic analysis indicate that MenoAct851 increased the AUC of simvastatin and simvastatin hydroxy acid. Therefore, coadministration of MenoAct851 might lead to drug-herb interaction, thereby affecting the therapeutic effect of CYP3A4 substrates. (Curr Ther Res Clin Exp. 2020; 81:XXX-XXX).

A systematic review on Piper longum L.: Bridging traditional knowledge and pharmacological evidence for future translational research

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Piper longum, commonly referred as 'Pippali', has found its traditional use in India, Malaysia, Singapore and other South Asian countries as an analgesic, carminative, anti-diarrhoeic, immunostimulant, post childbirth to check postpartum hemorrhage and to treat asthma, insomnia, dementia, epilepsy, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, spleen disorder, puerperal fever, leprosy etc. AIM OF THE REVIEW: This review offers essential data focusing on the traditional use, phytochemistry and pharmacological profile of Piper longum thereby identifying research gaps and future opportunities for investigation on this plant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This systematic survey was accomplished as per the PRISMA guidelines. The information was collected from books, and electronic search (PubMed, Science Direct, Lilca and Scielo) during 1967-2019.

RESULTS

Many phytochemicals have been identified till date, including alkaloids as its major secondary metabolites (piperine and piperlongumine), essential oil, flavonoids and steroids. These exhibit a wide range of activities including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-oxidant, anti-microbial, anti-cancer, anti-parkinsonian, anti-stress, nootropic, anti-epileptic, anti-hyperglycemic, hepatoprotective, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-platelet, anti-angiogenic, immunomodulatory, anti-arthritic, anti-ulcer, anti-asthmatic, anthelmintic action, anti-amebic, anti-fungal, mosquito larvicidal and anti-snake venom.

CONCLUSION

Amongst various activities, bioscientific clarification in relation to its ethnopharmacological perspective has been evidenced mainly for anti-amebic, anthelminthic, anti-tumor and anti-diabetic activity. However, despite traditional claims, insufficient scientific validation for the treatment of insomnia, dementia, epilepsy, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, spleen disorder, puerperal fever and leprosy, necessitate future investigations in this direction. It is also essential and critical to generate toxicological data and pharmacokinetics on human subjects so as to confirm its conceivable bio-active components in the body.

RP-HPLC analysis of methanol extract of Viscum articulatum

BACKGROUND

Viscum articulatum Burm. (Family: Loranthaceae) is commonly known as mistletoe. In ayurveda, the plant parts are used in "Kapha", "Vata", diseases of the blood, ulcer, and epilepsy. The plant parts are also used in urinary tract infection and wound infection. The plant contains five triterpenoids such as α-amyrin, lupeol, betulin, betulinic acid and oleanolic acid, exhibiting several pharmacological activities including antimicrobial, anti-HIV, antitumor, antiviral activity.

OBJECTIVE

To ensure the content of uniformity of oleanolic acid, a RP-HPLC method has been developed for estimation of oleanolic acid in V. articulatum aerial part.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The RP-HPLC method was carried out in reverse phase C₁₈ column, using methanol and water as mobile phase in the ratio of 95:5 (v/v), at the flow rate of 1 mL/min. The pH of aqueous phase was adjusted 3.2 with 1% (v/v) glacial acetic acid. The λ_max was set at 210 nm.

RESULTS

The retention time of oleanolic acid was found at 21.5 ± 0.05 min. The linearity of the response was found to be 10-800 μg/mL. The coefficient of determinants of oleanolic acid was found to be (r²) 0.995 and equation Y = 19462X + 16,172. The LOD and LOQ were found to be for oleanolic acid (1.96% w/w) 0.197 ± 0.63 and 0.623 ± 0.87 μg/mL, respectively. The developed method was accurate, specific, precise and reproducible.

CONCLUSION

This RP-HPLC may be useful for quantitative estimation of the chemical constituents present in the plant extract as well as the quality assessment of the herbal product.

In vitro Inhibitory Effect of Gymnema sylvestre Extracts and Total Gymnemic Acids Fraction on Select Cytochrome P450 Activities in Rat Liver Microsomes

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Gymnema sylvestre R. Br. is a well-known Indian medicinal herb. Gymnemic acids are pentacyclic triterpenes saponins and active phytoconstituents of Gymnema sylvestre. The study aimed at evaluation of the in vitro rat liver cytochrome P450 (CYP) inhibition potential of extracts and total gymnemic acid (TA)-enriched fractions from G. sylvestre.

METHODS

Standardization of G. sylvestre [ethanolic (EL), hydroethanolic (HE), total acid of ethanolic (TAE), total acid of hydroethanolic (TAHE) and total acid of aqueous (TAAQ) extract] was done with respect to deacyl gymnemic acid (DAGA), using reverse phase-high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). Total triterpenoid content was determined by vanillin perchloric acid assay.

RESULTS

Total triterpene content was found to be the highest in TAAQ (59.86 ± 0.005% w/w) and TAE (49.77 ± 0.009% w/w). TAAQ showed IC₅₀ ≤ 50 µg/ml for all selected CYP activities. Testosterone 6β-hydroxylation was strongly inhibited by TAE (IC₅₀: 15.48 ± 2.13 µg/ml) and was moderately by TAAQ and EL with IC₅₀ ≥ 50 µg/ml. Flurbiprofen 4'-hydroxylation was subject to strong, weak and moderate inhibition by TAAQ (IC₅₀: 34.67 ± 1.38 µg/ml), TAE (IC₅₀: ≥ 50 µg/ml) and EL (IC₅₀: > 50 µg/ml), respectively. Dextromethorphan O-demethylation was inhibited by TAHE and TAAQ.

CONCLUSIONS

In vitro inhibition studies suggested that TA strongly inhibits activity of selected CYP. This inhibition may possibly be due to triterpenoids and gymnemic acids that have been reported to be present in it. Data also suggest a potential for possible in vivo herb-drug interactions involving G. sylvestre and other medications that are metabolized by the same CYP.

Metabolism-mediated interaction potential of standardized extract of Tinospora cordifolia through rat and human liver microsomes

Objective:

Tinospora cordifolia is used for treatment of several diseases in Indian system of medicine. In the present study, the inhibition potential of T. cordifolia extracts and its constituent tinosporaside to cause herb-drug interactions through rat and human liver cytochrome enzymes was evaluated.

Materials and Methods:

Bioactive compound was quantified through reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography, to standardize the plant extracts and interaction potential of standardized extract. Interaction potential of the test sample was evaluated through cytochrome P450-carbon monoxide complex (CYP450-CO) assay with pooled rat liver microsome. Influence on individual recombinant human liver microsomes such as CYP3A4, CYP2D6, CYP2C9, and CYP1A2 isozymes was analyzed through fluorescence microplate assay, and respective IC₅₀ values were determined.

Results:

The content of tinosporaside was found to be 1.64% (w/w) in T. cordifolia extract. Concentration-dependent inhibition was observed through T. cordifolia extract. Observed IC₅₀ (μg/ml) value was 136.45 (CYP3A4), 144.37 (CYP2D6), 127.55 (CYP2C9), and 141.82 (CYP1A2). Tinosporaside and extract showed higher IC₅₀ (μg/ml) value than the known inhibitors. T. cordifolia extract showed significantly less interaction potential and indicates that the selected plant has not significant herb-drug interactions relating to the inhibition of major CYP450 isozymes.

Conclusions:

Plant extract showed significantly higher IC₅₀ value than respective positive inhibitors against CYP3A4, 2D6, 2C9, and 1A2 isozymes. Consumption of T. cordifolia may not cause any adverse effects when consumed along with other xenobiotics.

Development of Ayurveda - Tradition to trend

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ayurveda entails a scientific tradition of harmonious living and its origin can be traced from ancient knowledge in Rigveda and Atharvaveda. Ayurveda is a traditional healthcare system of Indian medicine since ancient times. Several Ayurvedic medicines have been exploiting for treatment and management of various diseases in human beings. The several drugs have been developed and practiced from Ayurveda since ancient time to modern practice as 'tradition to trend'. The potential of Ayurvedic medicine needs to be explored further with modern scientific validation approaches for better therapeutic leads.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was aimed to explore the various aspects of Ayurveda and inspired drug discovery approaches for its promotion and development.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We have reviewed all the literature related to the history and application of Ayurvedic herbs. Various aspects for the quality control, standardization, chemo-profiling, and metabolite fingerprinting for quality evaluation of Ayurvedic drugs. The development of Ayurvedic drugs is gaining momentum with the perspectives of safety, efficacy and quality for promotion and management of human health. Scientific documentation, process validation and several others significant parameters are key points, which can ensure the quality, safety and effectiveness of Ayurvedic drugs.

RESULTS

The present review highlights on the major goal of Ayurveda and their significant role in healthcare system. Ayurveda deals with several classical formulations including arka, asavas, aristas, churna, taila, vati, gutika, bhasma etc. There are several lead molecules that have been developed from the Ayurvedic herbs, which have various significant therapeutic activities. Chemo-profiling of Ayurvedic drug is essential in order to assess the quality of products. It deals with bioactive compound quantification, spurious and allied drug determination, chromatographic fingerprinting, standardization, stability and quality consistency of Ayurvedic products.

CONCLUSIONS

Scientific validation and the documentation of Ayurvedic drugs are very essential for its quality evaluation and global acceptance. Therapeutic efficacy of Ayurvedic herbs may be enhanced with high quality, which can be achieved by identity, purity, safety, drug content, physical and biological properties. Ayurvedic medicines need be explored with the modern scientific approaches for its validation. Therefore, an attempt has been made in the present review to highlight the crucial aspects that need to be considered for the promotion and development of Ayurvedic medicine.

Development of GC-MS based cytochrome P450 assay for the investigation of multi-herb interaction

As drug interactions with cytochrome P450 enzymes become increasingly important in the field of drug discovery, a high-throughput screening method for analysing the effects of a drug is needed. We have developed a simple and rapid simultaneous analytical method using a cocktail approach for measuring the activities of seven cytochrome P450 enzymes (CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP2E1 and CYP3A4). Human liver microsomes were used as a source for the seven cytochrome P450 enzymes, and a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used for analysing their activities. Kinetic studies and inhibition assays of CYP enzymes were performed using known substrates and inhibitors for validating and comparing the reaction rates and time-dependent activities between methods using each substrate versus a method using a cocktail solution. The optimized cocktail method was successfully applied to evaluate the effects of the decoction of Socheongryong-tang (SCRT) on cytochrome P450 enzymes. Our cocktail method provides a simultaneous high-throughput activity assay using GC-MS for the first time. This method is applicable for analysing the drug interactions of various plant-derived mixtures.

CYP450 mediated inhibition potential of Swertia chirata: An herb from Indian traditional medicine

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

An Ayurvedic herb, Swertia chirata (SC) have been used in treating various ailments such as hyperglycemia, leishmania, liver infections, inflammation, abdominal pain, bacterial infection, malaria etc. in Indian Systems of Medicine (ISM).

AIM OF THE STUDY

Study was designed to investigate the inhibition potential of the standardized SC extract along with its bioactive molecule ursolic acid on hepatic drug metabolizing isozymes (CYP3A4 and CYP2D6) and further some heavy metals were also analysed of the plant material.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The hydro-alcoholic extract was standardized with standard ursolic acid by reverse phase-high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method and the heavy metals content were analyzed through atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). The effect of extract on rat liver microsome (RLM) and individual CYP isozymes (CYP3A4 and CYP2D6) was investigated through CYP450-CO complex assay and fluorescence microplate assay respectively.

RESULTS

The content of ursolic acid was found to be 2.66% (w/w) in the SC extract and heavy metal contents along with trace elements were within the prescribed limits as per WHO guidelines. The inhibitory potential of SC extract on RLM was found to be 23.64±1.80%. CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 inhibitory effect of SC and ursolic acid (IC50: 197.49±2.68, 211.45±3.54 and IC50: 229.25±2.52, 212.66±1.26 µg/mL) was less as compared to that known inhibitors, ketoconazole and quinidine respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study revealed that S. chirata has less inhibition potential with two major drug metabolizing isozymes CYP3A4 and CYP2D6. SC extract and ursolic acid showed significantly (P<0.001) less inhibitory potential on RLM. The Ayurvedic herb (SC) has shown less inhibitory activity in a concentration dependent manner against the tested two CYP450 enzymes. The tested heavy metals and trace elements present SC was within limit. Therefore, the traditional use of S. chirata may be safe in respect of both tested isozymes.