From arrow poison to herbal medicine--the ethnobotanical, phytochemical and pharmacological significance of Cissampelos (Menispermaceae)

GC-MS profiling and biological investigations of Cissampelos pareira L. & Lantana camara L

The objectives of the study were to conduct phytochemical screening of crude extracts of Cissampelos pareira L. and Lantana camara L. and assessing their biological potentials against protein kinase enzymes, followed by the evaluation of antioxidant and antimicrobial capacities. The n-hexane (A-І, B-І) and ethyl extracts (A-ІІ, B-ІІ) displayed moderate to good antioxidant activity, while the methanol fractions (A-ІІІ, B-ІІІ) showed significant antioxidant activity. Among all the three crude extracts, the ethyl acetate extract (B-II) of L. camara exhibited significant protein kinase inhibitions with remarkable antioxidant potential and was therefore purified through column chromatography. Fraction B-ІІ-2 showed the highest flavonoid contents (735.43), with the most promising protein kinase inhibition exerted by the subtractions B-ІІ-2, B-ІІ-3, B-ІІ-4, and B-ІІ-7. Hence, active fractions were examined through GC-MS for the identification of active constituents, revealing 17 active compounds. In the case of Lantana camara, the ethyl acetate crude extract along with fractions led to the identification of more than thirty compounds, which may be further explored to find a potential lead for drug development.

A cularine-type isoquinoline alkaloid from the root part of Cissampelos pareira

One cularine-type alkaloid (1) was isolated along with two known compounds (2 and 3) from the roots of Cissampelos pareira. The isolated compound's chemical structures were elucidated by 1 D and 2 D NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry analysis. This is the first report on the cularine-type alkaloid from the genus Cissampelos. Compound (2) was reported for the first time from C. pareira. In silico molecular docking analysis showed various interactions of compounds with the active site residue of GABAA receptor, which could help to understand their putative mode of action in neurodevelopmental malfunctions and in anaesthesia.

Plant leaf mucilage/carrageenan/Eudragit® NE30D blended films: Optimization, characterization, and pharmaceutical application

Mucilage of C. pareira leaves was utilized, being manufactured for use in pharmaceutical products. Carrageenan and Eudragit® NE30D were used to combined. Glycerin was used as a plasticizer at a concentration of 20 % w/w based on the amount of polymer used. Computer software optimized its characteristics, including tensile properties, moisture uptake, and erosion; the optimal formulation was 1.4:1.2:2.8. The percentages of optimization error ranged from 8.48 to 13.80 %. Propranolol HCl was mixed to an optimal formulation. The film layer was tight, homogeneous, and smooth, with no holes. DSC thermogram showed no interaction peaks at 101.33 °C and 170.50 °C. Propranolol HCl concentration in the film ranged from 2.18 to 2.20 mg/cm2. Propranolol HCl was quickly released from the film. The kinetic model for the release profile was first-order kinetic. Although propranolol HCl had a high-release profile, its skin permeation was limited. The permeation lag time, Jss, and Kp were 1.60-2.65 h, 0.0182-0.0338 μg/cm2/h, and 9.10-15.35 cm/h, respectively. A significant amount of propranolol HCl residue was found on the skin's surface. Glycerin appeared to influence propranolol HCl permeability. Therefore, the plant leaf mucilage/carrageenan/Eudragit® NE30D blended film can be utilized in pharmaceutical applications to control drug release from its film layer.

Three new proaporphine alkaloids from Cissampelos capensis L.f. and their cytotoxic evaluation

Three new proaporphine alkaloids, cissamaline (4), cissamanine (5), and cissamdine (6), along with two known compounds (2 and 3) were isolated from total tertiary alakloidal extracts of the leaves and stems of Cissampelos capensis. The new alkaloids were elucidated through comprehensive spectroscopic analysis, including 1 D, 2 D NMR and High-resolution LCMS. The in vitro MTT cytotoxicity was evaluated on Caco-2 cell lines, where all the isolated compounds exhibited cytotoxic effects at concentrations above 250 µM.

Phytoestrogens and Health Effects

Phytoestrogens are literally estrogenic substances of plant origin. Although these substances are useful for plants in many aspects, their estrogenic properties are essentially relevant to their predators. As such, phytoestrogens can be considered to be substances potentially dedicated to plant-predator interaction. Therefore, it is not surprising to note that the word phytoestrogen comes from the early discovery of estrogenic effects in grazing animals and humans. Here, several compounds whose activities have been discovered at nutritional concentrations in animals and humans are examined. The substances analyzed belong to several chemical families, i.e., the flavanones, the coumestans, the resorcylic acid lactones, the isoflavones, and the enterolignans. Following their definition and the evocation of their role in plants, their metabolic transformations and bioavailabilities are discussed. A point is then made regarding their health effects, which can either be beneficial or adverse depending on the subject studied, the sex, the age, and the physiological status. Toxicological information is given based on official data. The effects are first presented in humans. Animal models are evoked when no data are available in humans. The effects are presented with a constant reference to doses and plausible exposure.

A spotlight on alkaloid nanoformulations for the treatment of lung cancer

Numerous naturally available phytochemicals have potential anti-cancer activities due to their vast structural diversity. Alkaloids have been extensively used in cancer treatment, especially lung cancers, among the plant-based compounds. However, their utilization is limited by their poor solubility, low bioavailability, and inadequacies such as lack of specificity to cancer cells and indiscriminate distribution in the tissues. Incorporating the alkaloids into nanoformulations can overcome the said limitations paving the way for effective delivery of the alkaloids to the site of action in sufficient concentrations, which is crucial in tumor targeting. Our review attempts to assess whether alkaloid nanoformulation can be an effective tool in lung cancer therapy. The mechanism of action of each alkaloid having potential is explored in great detail in the review. In general, Alkaloids suppress oncogenesis by modulating several signaling pathways involved in multiplication, cell cycle, and metastasis, making them significant component of many clinical anti-cancerous agents. The review also explores the future prospects of alkaloid nanoformulation in lung cancer. So, in conclusion, alkaloid based nanoformulation will emerge as a potential gamechanger in treating lung cancer in the near future.

The impact of cycleanine in cancer research: a computational study

Cancer is imposing a global health burden because of the steady increase in new cases. Moreover, current anticancer therapeutics are associated with many drawbacks, mainly the emergence of resistance and the severe adverse effects. Therefore, there is a continuous need for developing new anticancer agents with novel mechanisms of action and lower side effects. Natural products have been a rich source of anticancer medication. Cycleanine, a natural product, was reported to exert an antiproliferative effect on ovarian cancer cells by causing apoptosis through activation of caspases 3/7 and cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase to form poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP1). It is well-established that PARP1 is associated with carcinogenesis, and different PARP1 inhibitors are approved as anticancer drugs. In this study, the cytotoxic activity of cycleanine was computationally investigated to determine whether it is a PARP1 inhibitor or a caspase activator. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were utilized for this purpose. The results showed that cycleanine has a good binding affinity to PARP1; moreover, MD simulation showed that it forms a stable complex with the enzyme. Consequently, the results showed that cycleanine is a potential inhibitor of the PARP1 enzyme.

Anthelmintic and antimycobacterial activity of fractions and compounds isolated from Cissampelos mucronata

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cissampelos mucronata A. Rich., a perennial climber belonging to the family Menispermaceae, has been used traditionally to treat parasites and tuberculosis-related symptoms. Co-infection of helminth parasites and tuberculosis-causing pathogens heightens the risk of developing active tuberculosis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim was to isolate and characterize antimycobacterial compounds from Cissampelos mucronata and to investigate their antibiofilm and anthelmintic efficacy as well as cytotoxicity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The acetone extract of C. mucronata leaves and stems was fractionated by vacuum liquid chromatography using hexane, ethyl acetate, acetone and methanol:chloroform (3:7). Separation of the active ethyl acetate fraction by column and preparative thin layer chromatography led to the isolation and identification of five compounds using NMR and LC-MS, as well as GC-MS for non-polar compounds. The anthelmintic, antimycobacterial, antibiofilm, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects as well as cytotoxicity of the fractions and compounds were determined.

RESULTS

The ethyl acetate fraction had the best antimycobacterial activity (MIC = 0.015-0.08 mg/ml). The fractions were relatively non-toxic to Vero cells (0.03-0.79 mg/ml) and had good anti-inflammatory and antibiofilm effects. Five compounds were identified as stigmasterol, hentriacontane, simiarenol, nonacosene and carbonic acid. Nonacosene had moderate anthelmintic effects but poor antimycobacterial activity (MIC = 0.375 mg/ml). Nonacosene and hentriacontane had good biofilm inhibitory effect (90-100%).

CONCLUSIONS

This study reveals that C. mucronata is a potential source of promising compounds with a range of useful bioactivities that support its use in traditional medicine. Development of plant-based remedies may assist in reducing the impact of co-infections with helminth parasites and tuberculosis-causing mycobacteria.

Ethnopharmacological Study of Medicinal Plants Used for the Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases and Their Associated Risk Factors in sub-Saharan Africa

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of global mortality, including deaths arising from non-communicable diseases in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Consequently, this study aimed to provide details of medicinal plants (MPs) employed in SSA for the treatment of CVDs and their related risk factors to open new avenues for the discovery of novel drugs. The extensive ethnopharmacological literature survey of these MPs in 41 SSA countries was based on studies from 1982 to 2021. It revealed 1,085 MPs belonging to 218 botanical families, with Fabaceae (9.61%), Asteraceae (6.77%), Apocynaceae (3.93%), Lamiaceae (3.75%), and Rubiaceae (3.66%) being the most represented. Meanwhile, Allium sativum L., Persea americana Mill., Moringa oleifera Lam., Mangifera indica L., and Allium cepa L. are the five most utilised plant species. The preferred plant parts include the leaves (36%), roots (21%), barks (14%), fruits (7%), and seeds (5%), which are mostly prepared by decoction. Benin, Mauritius, Nigeria, South Africa, and Togo had the highest reported use while most of the investigations were on diabetes and hypertension. Despite the nutraceutical advantages of some of these MPs, their general toxicity potential calls for caution in their human long-term use. Overall, the study established the need for governments of SSA countries to validate the efficacy/safety of these MPs as well as provide affordable, accessible, and improved modern healthcare services.

Formulation and evaluation of SGLT2 inhibitory effect of a polyherbal mixture inspired from Ayurvedic system of medicine

Background and aim

The ingredients viz., Artemisia roxburghiana, Cissampelos pareira, Stephania glabra, Drimia indica, Roylea cinerea, Tinospora sinensis and Curcuma longa of the present formulation are used to treat diabetes in the Indian traditional medical system. Adopting the concept of multiple herbal mixtures for better therapeutic effects from the ancient Ayurvedic text Sarangdhar Samhita, the present study aimed to develop a polyherbal formulation (PHF) of seven herbs and to evaluate its sodium-glucose cotransporter protein-2 (SGLT2) inhibitory effect on type 2 diabetic rats.

Experimental procedure

Streptozotocin (STZ) (60 mg/kg) and nicotinamide (NAM) (120 mg/kg) were intraperitoneally administered to induce type 2 diabetes in Wistar rats. The animals were divided into 5 groups viz. normal control, diabetic control, positive control (dapagliflozin at 0.1 mg/kg) and two test groups (PHF at 250 and 500 mg/kg). Various parameters including blood glucose, serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), bilirubin, triglycerides and creatinine were measured.

Results and conclusion

The treatment with PHF (250 and 500 mg/kg) showed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in blood glucose levels by 56.37% and 58.17%, respectively. The levels of SGOT, SGPT and bilirubin were significantly reduced in PHF-fed diabetic rats. Histopathological examination revealed no major changes in the treated groups as compared to the normal control. The molecular docking study showed strong binding of β-sitosterol, insulanoline, warifteine, dehydrocorydalmine, taraxerol acetate, lupeol, corydalmine and luteolin to SGLT2 protein. The present study concludes that PHF has promising antidiabetic activity via inhibiting SGLT2 protein without showing any adverse effects.

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Polyherbal formulation is prepared with seven traditional herbs used in diabetes.

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It showed antihyperglycemic effect in streptozotocin-nicotinamide-induced diabetic rats.

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Liver and kidney functions were found normal in the treated diabetic rats.

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Histopathology of the liver, kidney and pancreas did not show any toxic sign after the treatment.

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Molecular docking study showed the SGLT2 inhibitory activity of bioactive compounds.

Cytotoxic polyhydroxylated pregnane glycosides from Cissampelos pareira var. hirsuta

Fourteen new polyhydroxylated pregnane glycosides, cissasteroid A–N (1–14), and five known analogues (15–19), were isolated from the dried whole plant of Cissampelos pareira var. hirsuta. Their structures and stereochemistry were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic data, chemical hydrolysis, and ECD measurements. All the compounds were tested for their cytotoxicity against five human cancer cell lines, and inhibitory activity against NO release in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells. Compared with cisplatin, compound 7 showed more potent cytotoxicities against the HL-60, A549, SMMC-7721, MCF-7, and SW480 cell lines, with IC₅₀ values of 2.19, 14.38, 2.00, 7.58, and 7.44 μM, respectively. The preliminary study of structure–activity relationship indicated that benzoic acid esterification at C-20 may have a negative effect on the cytotoxic activity of polyhydroxylated pregnane derivatives in these five human cancer cell lines. These results revealed the potential of compound 7 as an ideal antitumor lead compound.

Fourteen new polyhydroxylated pregnane glycosides, cissasteroid A–N (1–14), and five known analogues (15–19), were isolated from the dried whole plant of Cissampelos pareira var. hirsuta.

Transcriptome analysis and connectivity mapping of Cissampelos pareira L. provides molecular links of ESR1 modulation to viral inhibition

Bioactive fractions obtained from medicinal plants which have been used for the treatment of multiple diseases could exert their effects by targeting common pathways. Prior knowledge of their usage could allow us to identify novel molecular links. In this study, we explored the molecular basis of action of one such herbal formulation Cissampelos pareira L. (Cipa), used for the treatment of female hormone disorders and fever. Transcriptomic studies on MCF7 cell lines treated with Cipa extract carried out using Affymetrix arrays revealed a downregulation of signatures of estrogen response potentially modulated through estrogen receptor α (ERα). Molecular docking analysis identified 38 Cipa constituents that potentially bind (ΔG <  − 7.5) with ERα at the same site as estrogen. The expression signatures in the connectivity map (https://clue.io/;) revealed high positive scores with translation inhibitors such as emetine (score: 99.61) and knockdown signatures of genes linked to the antiviral response such as ribosomal protein RPL7 (score: 99.92), which is a reported ERα coactivator. Further, gene knockdown experiments revealed that Cipa exhibits antiviral activity in dengue infected MCF7 cells potentially modulated through estrogen receptor 1. This approach reveals a novel pathway involving the ESR1-RPL7 axis which could be a potential target in dengue viral infection.

Cissampelos pareira L.: A review of its traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cissampelos pareira, a well-known medicinal climber-plant of the Menispermaceae family, has been extensively used in the traditional medicinal system since the ancient time for the treatment of numerous diseases such as ulcer, wound, rheumatism, fever, asthma, cholera, diarrhoea, inflammation, snakebite, malaria, rabies, and also recommended for blood purification.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The main purpose of this review is to provide updated information on ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, chromatographic and spectroscopic analysis, pharmacology, and toxicology of C. pareira along with the possible future research. This information will help to provide a foundation for plant-based drug discovery in the near future.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The online databases such as Scifinder, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar were used to collect electronically available literature data on C. pareira. Ayurveda text is searched for the traditional uses of this plant in India. The published books are also searched for the information on this plant. Our search was based on traditional uses, botany, phytochemistry, and pharmacological potential by using "Cissampelos pareira" as the keyword.

RESULTS

To date, approximately 54 phytomolecules have been isolated and characterized from C. pareira including mainly isoquinoline alkaloids along with few flavonoids, flavonoid glycosides, and fatty acids. The crude extracts of C. pareira have shown various pharmacological activities such as antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, antiarthritic, antiulcer, antidiabetic, anticancer, antifertility, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antivenom, antimalarial, and immunomodulatory, etc. The chemical fingerprinting of C. pareira carried out using HPTLC, HPLC, UPLC, LC-MS, and GC-MS, revealed the presence of alkaloids (isoquinoline alkaloids), fatty acids, and flavonoid glycosides. Moreover, the toxicological assessment of C. pareira has been moderately investigated, which requires further comprehensive studies.

CONCLUSION

Comprehensive literature survey reveals that till date, remarkable growth has been made on phytochemistry and pharmacology of C. pareira reflecting the great medicinal potential of this plant. Although some of the traditional uses have been well clarified and documented by modern pharmacological analysis, the correlation between its pharmacological activities and particular phytoconstituents still needs to be validated. Furthermore, there is partial data available on most of the pharmacological studies, along with incomplete toxicological screening. Future research needs to pay more attention to pharmacological studies of C. pareira via pre-clinical and clinical trials. Additionally, scientific validation of traditional knowledge of C. pareira is vital for ensuring safety, efficacy, and mechanism of action before clinical uses.

Gut microbiota as an emerging therapeutic avenue for the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the leading causes of death related to liver diseases worldwide. Despite this, there is no specific treatment that is approved for the disease till now, which could be due to a poor understanding of the pathophysiology of this disease. In the past few decades, several scientists have speculated the root cause of NAFLD to be dysbalance in the gut microbiome resulting in a susceptibility totheinflammatory cascade in the liver. Herein, we hypothesize to fabricate a novel formulation containing prebiotic with probiotics, which, thereby would help in maintaining the gut homeostasis, and used for the treatment of NAFLD. The proposed novel formulation would contain a Bifidobacteriumsp. with Faecalibacteriumprausnitzii in the presence of a dietary fibre having hepatoprotective activity. These two strains of probiotics would help in increasing the concentration of butyrate in the gut, which in turn would inhibit intestinal inflammation and maintain gut integrity. The dietary fibre would serve a dual mechanism; firstly they would act as a prebiotic, which helps in the proliferation of administered probiotics and secondly, would protect the liver via own hepatoprotective action. This combinatorial approach would pave a new therapeutic avenue for the treatment of NAFLD.

Langmuir-Blodgett monolayers holding a wound healing active compound and its effect in cell culture. A model for the study of surface mediated drug delivery systems

Langmuir and Langmuir-Blodgett films holding a synthetic bioinspired wound healing active compound were used as drug-delivery platforms. Palmitic acid Langmuir monolayers were able to incorporate 2-methyltriclisine, a synthetic Triclisine derivative that showed wound healing activity. The layers proved to be stable and the nanocomposites were transferred to solid substrates. Normal human lung cells (Medical Research Council cell strain 5, MRC-5) were grown over the monomolecular Langmuir-Blodgett films that acted as a drug reservoir and delivery system. The proliferation and migration of the cells were clearly affected by the presence of 2-methyltriclisine in the amphiphilic layers. The methodology is proposed as a simple and reliable model for the study of the effects of bioactive compounds over cellular cultures.

Chemical profiling and quantification of potential active constituents responsible for the antiplasmodial activity of Cissampelos pareira

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cissampelos pareira is used traditionally in India as a remedy for the treatment of various diseases including malaria but the active ingredients responsible for antiplasmodial activity have not yet been investigated.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The identification and quantification of compounds responsible for antiplasmodial activity in different parts (leaf, stem and root) of C. pareira is the target of current study.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The hydro ethanolic parent extracts of different parts of C. pareira and fractions prepared from these extracts were evaluated against Pf3D7 (chloroquine sensitive) and PfINDO (chloroquine resistance) strains in culture to quantify the IC₅₀ for extracts and fractions. Promising fractions of root part of plant were subjected to silica gel column chromatography to obtain pure compounds and their structures were elucidated by detailed spectroscopic analysis. Pure compounds were also tested against Pf3D7 and PfINDO strains. A rapid and simple UPLC-DAD method was developed for the identification and quantification of pharmaceutically important metabolites of C. pareira.

RESULTS

Among different extracts, the hydro ethanolic extract of root part of C. pareira was found most active with IC₅₀ values (μg/ml) of 1.42 and 1.15 against Pf 3D7 and Pf INDO, respectively. Tested against Pf 3D7 the most potent fractions were root ethyl acetate fraction (IC₅₀ 4.0 μg/ml), stem water fraction (IC₅₀ 4.4 μg/ml), and root water fraction (IC₅₀ 8.5 μg/ml). Further, phytochemical investigation of active fractions of root part led to the isolation and characterization of a new isoquinoline alkaloid, namely pareirarine (8), along with five known compounds magnoflorine (5), magnocurarine (10), salutaridine (11), cissamine (13) and hayatinine (15). Hayatinine (15), a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid, isolated from root ethyl acetate fraction was most promising compound with IC₅₀ of 0.41 μM (Pf INDO) and 0.509 μM (Pf 3D7). Magnocurarine (10) and cissamine (13) were also found active with IC₅₀ values of 12.51 and 47.34 μM against Pf INDO and 12.54 and 8.76 μM against Pf 3D7, respectively. A total of thirty compounds were detected in studied extracts and fractions, structures were assigned to 15 of these and five of these biologically important compounds were quantified. Isolation of saluteridine (11) from C. pareira and the evaluation of antiplasmodial activity of pure compound from C. pariera is disclosed for the first time.

CONCLUSION

This study concludes that the antimalarial potential of C. pareira may be attributed to isoquinoline type alkaloids present in this plant and also provides the scientific evidence for the traditional use of this plant in treatment of malaria.

Traditional Herbal Medicine in Mesoamerica: Toward Its Evidence Base for Improving Universal Health Coverage

The quality of health care in Mesoamerica is influenced by its rich cultural diversity and characterized by social inequalities. Especially indigenous and rural communities confront diverse barriers to accessing formal health services, leading to often conflicting plurimedical systems. Fostering integrative medicine is a fundamental pillar for achieving universal health coverage (UHC) for marginalized populations. Recent developments toward health sovereignty in the region are concerned with assessing the role of traditional medicines, and particularly herbal medicines, to foster accessible and culturally pertinent healthcare provision models. In Mesoamerica, as in most regions of the world, a wealth of information on traditional and complementary medicine has been recorded. Yet these data are often scattered, making it difficult for policy makers to regulate and integrate traditionally used botanical products into primary health care. This critical review is based on a quantitative analysis of 28 survey papers focusing on the traditional use of botanical drugs in Mesoamerica used for the compilation of the "Mesoamerican Medicinal Plant Database" (MAMPDB), which includes a total of 12,537 use-records for 2188 plant taxa. Our approach presents a fundamental step toward UHC by presenting a pharmacological and toxicological review of the cross-culturally salient plant taxa and associated botanical drugs used in traditional medicine in Mesoamerica. Especially for native herbal drugs, data about safety and effectiveness are limited. Commonly used cross-culturally salient botanical drugs, which are considered safe but for which data on effectiveness is lacking constitute ideal candidates for treatment outcome studies.

Metabolomic fingerprinting of Cissampelos sympodialis Eichler leaf extract and correlation with its spasmolytic activity

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cissampelos sympodialis Eichler (Menispermaceae) is popularly used in northeastern Brazil for the treatment of respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma. Despite many pre-clinical pharmacological studies, the compounds mediating the anti-asthma activity of polar extracts of Cissampelos sympodialis leaves have not been definitively identified.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Aim of the study: The aim of the study was to investigate the correlation between the bioactivity of polar extracts prepared from the leaves of C. sympodialis and the chemical composition using a ¹H-NMR-based metabolomics approach.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The metabolic profile of the leaf polar extract during different phenological stages of the plant was investigated using ¹H NMR spectroscopy while simultaneously screening for spasmolytic activity using guinea-pig tracheal preparations. The content of the alkaloids previously implicated in the bioactivity of Cissampelos sympodialis was determined by HPLC.

RESULTS

PCA analysis of the ¹H NMR data discriminated the extracts from different plant phenological stages. The contents of the major alkaloids decrease (from 2 ± 0.32 μg/mL for warifteine and 1 ± 0.14 μg/mL for methylwarifteine) to undetectable levels from 90 (CsL₉₀ extract) and 120 (CsL₁₂₀) days onwards for warifteine and methylwarifteine, respectively. All six extracts relaxed the trachea pre-contracted with carbachol, but the CsF₂₁₀ extract was more potent (EC₅₀ = 74.6 ± 7.9 μg/mL) compared to both CsL₉₀ extracts and CsL₁₈₀ in the presence of functional epithelium. PLS regression analysis of ¹H-NMR spectral data demonstrated that the spasmolytic activity was better correlated with signals for flavonol derivatives.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data challenge the idea that warifteine and methylwarifteine mediate the spasmolytic activity of the polar extract of C. sympodialis leaves.

Ethnomedicinal Investigation of Medicinal Plants of Chakrata Region (Uttarakhand) Used in the Traditional Medicine for Diabetes by Jaunsari Tribe

The Himalayan region is the treasure house of natural wealth, particularly of medicinal and aromatic plants. These plants are used by the Indian traditional healers for the past many centuries to treat various ailments such as skin disorders, asthma, diabetes, snake bite, fever, pain, eye diseases, diarrhoea, indigestion, jaundice, burn, wound, liver disorder, CNS disorders and urinary tract infection. The indigenous traditional knowledge of medicinal plants and therapies of various local communities has been lost due to changes in traditional culture and the introduction of modern technologies. Therefore, it is essential to explore the traditional knowledge of the indigenous medicinal plants mainly in such areas where there is a severe threat to natural vegetation owing to human inhabitation. The present study aimed to explore the medicinal plants of Chakrata region (Jaunsar-Bawar Hills), Uttarakhand, India used in the folk medicine for the management of diabetes by Jaunsari Tribe. In a comprehensive field survey, the information about the medicinal plants have been mainly collected from the traditional healers and other elderly people belong to the tribal community. All the information about the medicinal plants of the study area was documented in a field book. Various tools have been used to collect the samples for identification purpose and the authentication of the plants was done with the help of taxonomists. The literature on these plants was also searched from online (PubMed and Scopus) as well as from some textbooks and Ayurvedic classical texts. The present survey-based work described a total of 54 plants belonging to 47 genera and 30 families used in the traditional medicine for the management of diabetes in Chakrata region. The information gathered from the local community revealed that the plants are effective in diabetes and one can use most of them without consulting a practitioner or traditional healer. The literature revealed that most of the surveyed plants are already used in the preparation of various antidiabetic formulations such as Chandraprabha vati, Nishamalaki chunra, Amritamehari churna and Nisakathakadi kashayam along with various patent drugs which are frequently prescribed by the Ayurvedic practitioners in India. The present study explored the traditional as well as scientific knowledge on the antidiabetic plants used by the tribal community. The documented information on these plants can be further used by the scientific community to develop new drugs/formulations with the help of modern techniques.

A new pyrrole alkaloid from the roots of Cissampelos pareira

Phytochemical investigation of the roots of Cissampelos pareira Linn. led to the isolation of one new pyrrole alkaloid, cissampeline (1), together with ten known alkaloids, (-)-curine (2), (-)-cyclanoline (3), (+)-tetrandrine (4), (+)-obaberine (5), (+)-obamegine (6), (-)-oblongine (7), (+)-homoaromoline (8), (-)-nor-N׳-chondrocurine (9), trans-N-feruloyltyramine (10) and (+)-coclaurine (11). Their structures were elucidated by extensive NMR and MS spectroscopic analyses. Interestingly, compound 1 represents the first example of pyrrole alkaloid found in the genus Cissampelos. Moreover, compounds 5-11 were isolated for the first time from this genus. Among them, compound 6 showed the highest anti-acetylcholinesterase activity with an IC₅₀ value of 3.26 µM, whereas compound 8 displayed the most potent cytotoxicity against human colon cancer (HT29) cells with an IC₅₀ value of 7.89 µM.

A systematic review on black pepper (Piper nigrum L.): from folk uses to pharmacological applications

Considered as the "King of spices", black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) is a widely used spice which adds flavor of its own to dishes, and also enhances the taste of other ingredients. Piper nigrum has also been extensively explored for its biological properties and its bioactive phyto-compounds. There is, however, no updated compilation of these available data to provide a complete profile of the medicinal aspects of P. nigrum. This study endeavors to systematically review scientific data on the traditional uses, phytochemical composition, and pharmacological properties of P. nigrum. Information was obtained using a combination of keywords via recognized electronic databases (e.g., Science Direct and Google Scholar). Google search was also used. Books and online materials were also considered, and the literature search was restricted to the English language. The country with the highest number of traditional reports of P. nigrum for both human and veterinary medicine was India, mostly for menstrual and ear-nose-throat disorders in human and gastrointestinal disorders in livestock. The seeds and fruits were mostly used, and the preferred mode of preparation was in powdered form, pills or tablets, and paste. Piper nigrum and its bioactive compounds were also found to possess important pharmacological properties. Antimicrobial activity was recorded against a wide range of pathogens via inhibition of biofilm, bacterial efflux pumps, bacterial swarming, and swimming motilities. Studies also reported its antioxidant effects against a series of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species including the scavenging of superoxide anion, hydrogen peroxide, nitric oxide, DPPH, ABTS, and reducing effect against ferric and molybdenum (VI). Improvement of antioxidant enzymes in vivo has also been reported. Piper nigrum also exhibited anticancer effect against a number of cell lines from breast, colon, cervical, and prostate through different mechanisms including cytotoxicity, apoptosis, autophagy, and interference with signaling pathways. Its antidiabetic property has also been confirmed in vivo as well as hypolipidemic activity as evidenced by decrease in the level of cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein and increase in high-density lipoprotein. Piper nigrum also has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anticonvulsant, and neuroprotective effects. The major bioactive compound identified in P. nigrum is piperine although other compounds are also present including piperic acid, piperlonguminine, pellitorine, piperolein B, piperamide, piperettine, and (-)-kusunokinin, which also showed biological potency. Most pharmacological studies were conducted in vitro (n = 60) while only 21 in vivo and 1 clinical trial were performed. Hence, more in vivo experiments using a pharmacokinetic and pharmacokinetic approach would be beneficial. As a conclusive remark, P. nigrum should not only be regarded as "King of spices" but can also be considered as part of the kingdom of medicinal agents, comprising a panoply of bioactive compounds with potential nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications.

Curare alkaloids from Matis Dart Poison: Comparison with d-tubocurarine in interactions with nicotinic, 5-HT3 serotonin and GABAA receptors

Several novel bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloids (BBIQAs) have recently been isolated from a Matis tribe arrow poison and shown by two-electrode voltage-clamp to inhibit mouse muscle nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR). Here, using radioligand assay with Aplysia californica AChBP and radioiodinated α-bungarotoxin ([125I]-αBgt), we show that BBIQA1, BBIQA2, and d-tubocurarine (d-TC) have similar affinities to nAChR orthosteric site. However, a competition with [125I]-αBgt for binding to the Torpedo californica muscle-type nAChR revealed that BBIQAs1, 2, and 3 are less potent (IC50s = 26.3, 8.75, and 17.0 μM) than d-TC (IC50 = 0.39 μM), while with α7 nAChR in GH4C1 cells, BBIQA1 was less potent that d-TC (IC50s = 162 μM and 7.77 μM, respectively), but BBIQA2 was similar (IC50 = 5.52 μM). In inhibiting the Ca2+ responses induced by acetylcholine in Neuro2a cells expressing the mouse adult α1β1εδ nAChR or human α7 nAChR, BBIQAs1 and 2 had similar potencies to d-TC (IC50s in the range 0.75-3.08 μM). Our data suggest that BBIQA1 and BBIQA2 can inhibit adult muscle α1β1εδ nAChR by both competitive and noncompetitive mechanisms. Further experiments on neuronal α3β2, α4β2, and α9α10 nAChRs, expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes, showed that similar potencies for BBIQAs1, 2, and d-TC. With α3β2γ2 GABAAR currents were almost completely inhibited by d-TC at a high (100 μM) concentration, but BBIQAs1 and 2 were less potent (only 40-50% inhibition), whereas in competition with Alexa Fluor 546-α-cobratoxin for binding to α1β3γ2 GABAAR in Neuro2a cells, d-TC and these analogs had comparable affinities. Especially interesting effects of BBIQAs1 and 2 in comparison with d-TC were observed for 5-HT3AR: BBIQA1 and BBIQA2 were 5- and 87-fold less potent than d-TC (IC50 = 22.63 nM). Thus, our results reveal that these BBIQAs differ from d-TC in their potencies towards certain Cys-loop receptors, and we suggest that understanding the reasons behind this might be useful for future drug design.

Cytoprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanism related to antiulcer activity of Cissampelos sympodialis Eichl. in animal models

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The leaves and roots of Cissampelos sympodialis (Menispermaceae) are used by indian tribes and in folk medicine to treat genitourinary infections, inflammation, asthma and gastrointestinal disorders.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The standardized ethanolic extract (Cs-EtOHE) and alkaloids total fraction (Cs-TAF) obtained from aerial parts of C. sympodialis were evaluated in several models of acute gastric ulcers. The antisecretory and/or neutralizing mechanisms of the gastric acid secretion, cytoprotective, antioxidant and immunoregulatory mechanisms were also evaluated.

RESULTS

Cs-EtOHE and Cs-TAF presented a reduction in gastric mucosa lesions against ethanol, NSAIDs, hypothermic restraint-stress and gastric juice containment induced ulcer models. This activity is related to alkaloids present in the extract, and involves the participation of sulfhydryl compounds, nitric oxide, K_ATP channels, prostaglandins, decreased levels of IL-1β and TNF-α and increased levels of GSH and IL-10.

CONCLUSION

The data indicate gastroprotective activity, due to the participation of the cytoprotective, antioxidant and immunoregulatory mechanisms.

The effects of Cissampelos pareira extract on envenomation induced by Bothropsdiporus snake venom

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ophidian accidents are a serious public health problem in Argentina; the Bothrops species is responsible for 97% of these accidents, and in particular, B. diporus is responsible for 80% of them. In the northeast of the country (Corrientes Provinces), Cissampelos pareira L. (Menispermaceae) is commonly used against the venom of B. diporus; its use is described in almost all ethnobotanical literature from countries where the plant grows.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this study, the in vitro and in vivo antivenom activities of C. pareira extracts were evaluated against B. diporus venom, with a particular focus on the local effects associated with envenoming. The seasonal influence on the chemical composition of the active extracts was also studied, in order determine the associated range of variability and its influence on the antivenom activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This research was conducted using aerial parts (leaves, flowers, tender stems) and roots of Cissampelos pareira collected from two different phytogeographic regions of Corrientes (Argentina); Paso de la Patria and Lomas de Vallejos. In addition, to perform a seasonal analysis and to evaluate the metabolic stability, material was collected at three different growth stages. In vivo and in vitro anti-snake venom activities were tested, and a bio-guided chromatographic separation was performed in order to determine the active chemicals involved. The fractions obtained were analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and the chemical profile of the most active constituent was analyzed by ultra high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole/high-resolution mass spectrometry (Q-Orbitrap). (UHPLC-MS).

RESULTS

The alcoholic extract was found to be the most active The bio-guided fractionation allowed selection one fraction to be analyzed by UHPLC-MS in order to identify the components responsible for the activities found; this identified five possible flavonoids.

CONCLUSIONS

Our studies of the activity of C. pareira against the venom of B. diporus have confirmed that this species possesses inhibitory effects in both in vitro and in vivo models. Moreover, the present data demonstrate that certain flavonoids may mitigate some of the venom-induced local tissue damage.

An in vitro investigation of indigenous South African medicinal plants used to treat oral infections

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Over a 120 South African medicinal plants are used for the treatment of oral diseases. Despite the vast collection of antimicrobial studies being done on South African plants, there is still limited research on pathogens associated with oral infections. In consultation with the available ethnobotanical literature, this study investigates the antimicrobial efficacy of some South African medicinal plants against oral pathogens.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To provide a detailed account of the antimicrobial properties of selected South African medicinal plants used traditionally to treat oral infections. The effect on Streptococcus mutans biofilm formation and the toxicity profiles of these plants are also investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 136 aqueous and organic extracts and six essential oils were prepared from 31 different plant species. These plant samples were screened for antimicrobial efficacy against nine oral pathogens using the micro-titre plate dilution assay. Plant extracts that were found to have noteworthy antimicrobial activity against S. mutans were further evaluated on the effect on S. mutans biofilm formation using the glass slide technique. The toxicity profiles of plant samples that were found to have noteworthy antimicrobial activity were evaluated using the brine shrimp lethality assay.

RESULTS

The organic extract of Cissampelos torulosa stems displayed the lowest MIC value of 0.05mg/mL against both Lactobacillus spp. This high antimicrobial activity was also observed with the organic extract of Spirostachys africana leaves against Candida albicans. In some instances, a direct relationship was found between the traditional use of the plant and the antimicrobial activity observed. For example, noteworthy activity (MIC < 1.00mg/mL) was observed against all three Candida spp. when tested against Clematis brachiata (leaves), a plant traditionally used to treat oral thrush. Englerophytum magalismonatanum stems displayed notable activity against both Streptococcus spp. (MIC 0.83mg/mL against S. mutans and MIC 0.67mg/mL against S. sanguis). Spirostachys africana leaves displayed the greatest anti-adherent properties against S. mutans biofilm formation at both 24 and 48h, reducing the biofilm by 97.56% and 86.58% respectively. The majority of plant samples tested in the brine shrimp lethality assay (BSLA) were considered safe, however, 13 plant samples were considered toxic, at a concentration of 1mg/mL.

CONCLUSION

Noteworthy antimicrobial activity for plants species such as C. brachiata and E. magalismonatnum provides validation for the traditional use of these plants. Spirostachys africana displayed the greatest reduction of adherent S. mutans cells. The BSLA results revealed that the majority of the plant samples were not toxic in nature. The findings from the results favour the potential use of these plants in treating oral diseases such as dental caries, periodontal diseases and oral thrush.

Prolyl oligopeptidase and its role in the organism: attention to the most promising and clinically relevant inhibitors

Prolyl oligopeptidase (POP), also called prolyl endopeptidase, is a cytosolic enzyme investigated by several research groups. It has been proposed to play an important role in physiological processes such as modulation of the levels of several neuronal peptides and hormones containing a proline residue. Due to its proteolytic activity and physiological role in cell signaling pathways, inhibition of POP offers an emerging approach for the treatment of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases as well as other diseases related to cognitive impairment. Furthermore, it may also represent an interesting target for treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders, and as an antiangiogenesis or antineoplastic agent. In this review paper, we summarized naturally occurring POP inhibitors together with peptide-like inhibitors and their biological effects. Some of them have shown promising results and interesting pharmacological profiles. However, to date, there is no POP inhibitor available on the market although several clinical trials have been undertaken.

Medicinal plants used to treat snakebite in Central America: Review and assessment of scientific evidence

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Every year between 1.2 and 5.5 million people worldwide are victims of snakebites, with about 400,000 left permanently injured. In Central America an estimated 5500 snakebite cases are reported by health centres, but this is likely to be an underestimate due to unreported cases in rural regions. The aim of this study is to review the medicinal plants used traditionally to treat snakebites in seven Central American countries: Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature search was performed on published primary data on medicinal plants of Central America and those specifically pertaining to use against snakebites. Plant use reports for traditional snakebite remedies identified in primary sources were extracted and entered in a database, with data analysed in terms of the most frequent numbers of use reports. The scientific evidence that might support the local uses of the most frequently reported species was also examined.

RESULTS

A total of 260 independent plant use reports were recorded in the 34 sources included in this review, encompassing 208 species used to treat snakebite in Central America. Only nine species were reported in at least three studies: Cissampelos pareira L., Piper amalago L., Aristolochia trilobata L., Sansevieria hyacinthoides (L.) Druce, Strychnos panamensis Seem., Dorstenia contrajerva L., Scoparia dulcis L., Hamelia patens Jacq., and Simaba cedron Planch. Genera with the highest number of species used to treat snakebite were Piper, Aristolochia, Hamelia, Ipomoea, Passiflora and Peperomia. The extent of the scientific evidence available to understand any pharmacological basis for their use against snakebites varied between different plant species.

CONCLUSION

At least 208 plant species are traditionally used to treat snakebite in Central America but there is a lack of clinical research to evaluate their efficacy and safety. Available pharmacological data suggest different plant species may target different symptoms of snakebites, such as pain or anxiety, although more studies are needed to further evaluate the scientific basis for their use.

Emerging Cytotoxic Alkaloids in the Battle against Cancer: Overview of Molecular Mechanisms

Considered as the second deadliest disease globally, cancer has captured the attention of researchers who have been trying with perseverance to decode its hidden aspects, to find new prognosis methods, and to develop better and more effective treatments. Plants have continuously offered an excess of unique secondary metabolites with remarkable biological applications. Alkaloids, one of the most abundant metabolites, constitute a large conglomerate of basic heterocyclic nitrogen-containing natural compounds which are normally produced by plants as toxic substances. Out of the 27,000 different alkaloids, more than 17,000 have displayed diversified pharmacological properties including anticancer activities. These metabolites have been classified either according to their chemical structures or their taxonomic origin. None of the researched alkaloids have been classified according to their molecular mechanism of action against cancer. In fact, only a fraction of the tremendous number of anticancer alkaloids has been copiously mentioned in journals. Here, we aim to provide a summary of the literature on some of the promising anticancer alkaloids that have not been well discussed previously and to classify them according to their molecular mechanisms of action. This review will provide a better understanding of the anticancer mechanisms of these promising natural products that are a rich reservoir for drug discovery.

Ethnomedical research and review of Q'eqchi Maya women's reproductive health in the Lake Izabal region of Guatemala: Past, present and future prospects

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In Central America, most Maya women use ethnomedicines for all aspects of their reproductive cycle including menstruation, pregnancy and menopause. However, very few of these plants have been documented, collected and tested in appropriate pharmacological assays to determine possible safety and efficacy. The aim of this work was to provide an overview of information on the ethnomedical uses, ethnopharmacology, chemistry and pharmacological research for medicinal plants used for women's reproductive health in Guatemala, with a special emphasis on the Q'eqchi Maya of the Lake Izabal region, to demonstrate therapeutic potential and support future research in the field.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Reviews of the ethnobotanical, ethnomedical and ethnopharmacological literature were performed for 30 plants collected in the Lake Izabal region of Guatemala and used by the Q'eqchi Maya for treatment of reproductive health issues were performed up to and including July 2015 using multiple databases, library searches for abstracts, books, dissertations, and websites.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Review of the published research confirms that many of the plants used by Q'eqchi Maya women for the management of reproductive health issues have pharmacological activities, including analgesic, anti-inflammatory, estrogenic, progestagenic and/or serotonergic effects, that support the use of these plants and provide plausible mechanisms of action for their traditional uses. Furthermore, a new serotonin agonist, 9, 10-methylenedioxy-5, 6-Z-fadyenolide was isolated, thereby demonstrating an untapped potential for drug discovery. However, to date much of the pharmacological assays have been in vitro only, and few in vivo studies have been performed. Considering the large percentage of the Maya population in Guatemala that use traditional medicines, there remains a significant lack of pharmacological and toxicological data for these plants. Future research should focus on the safety and efficacy of medicinal plants using in vivo preclinical studies and clinical trials, as well as chemical analysis. Since medicinal plants from the Piperaceae are most commonly used as traditional medicines by the Q'eqchi Maya women, and new bioactive compounds have been identified from Piper species, investigations of commonly used plants from this family would be an appropriate place to start. Data generated from such studies would contribute to Guatemala's national effort to promote a complementary relationship between traditional Maya medicine and public health services.

Transcriptome analysis of 20 taxonomically related benzylisoquinoline alkaloid-producing plants

BACKGROUND

Benzylisoquinoline alkaloids (BIAs) represent a diverse class of plant specialized metabolites sharing a common biosynthetic origin beginning with tyrosine. Many BIAs have potent pharmacological activities, and plants accumulating them boast long histories of use in traditional medicine and cultural practices. The decades-long focus on a select number of plant species as model systems has allowed near or full elucidation of major BIA pathways, including those of morphine, sanguinarine and berberine. However, this focus has created a dearth of knowledge surrounding non-model species, which also are known to accumulate a wide-range of BIAs but whose biosynthesis is thus far entirely unexplored. Further, these non-model species represent a rich source of catalyst diversity valuable to plant biochemists and emerging synthetic biology efforts.

RESULTS

In order to access the genetic diversity of non-model plants accumulating BIAs, we selected 20 species representing 4 families within the Ranunculales. RNA extracted from each species was processed for analysis by both 1) Roche GS-FLX Titanium and 2) Illumina GA/HiSeq platforms, generating a total of 40 deep-sequencing transcriptome libraries. De novo assembly, annotation and subsequent full-length coding sequence (CDS) predictions indicated greater success for most species using the Illumina-based platform. Assembled data for each transcriptome were deposited into an established web-based BLAST portal ( www.phytometasyn.ca) to allow public access. Homology-based mining of libraries using BIA-biosynthetic enzymes as queries yielded ~850 gene candidates potentially involved in alkaloid biosynthesis. Expression analysis of these candidates was performed using inter-library FPKM normalization methods. These expression data provide a basis for the rational selection of gene candidates, and suggest possible metabolic bottlenecks within BIA metabolism. Phylogenetic analysis was performed for each of 15 different enzyme/protein groupings, highlighting many novel genes with potential involvement in the formation of one or more alkaloid types, including morphinan, aporphine, and phthalideisoquinoline alkaloids. Transcriptome resources were used to design and execute a case study of candidate N-methyltransferases (NMTs) from Glaucium flavum, which revealed predicted and novel enzyme activities.

CONCLUSIONS

This study establishes an essential resource for the isolation and discovery of 1) functional homologues and 2) entirely novel catalysts within BIA metabolism. Functional analysis of G. flavum NMTs demonstrated the utility of this resource and underscored the importance of empirical determination of proposed enzymatic function. Publically accessible, fully annotated, BLAST-accessible transcriptomes were not previously available for most species included in this report, despite the rich repertoire of bioactive alkaloids found in these plants and their importance to traditional medicine. The results presented herein provide essential sequence information and inform experimental design for the continued elucidation of BIA metabolism.

Involvement of adrenoceptors, dopamine receptors and AMPA receptors in antidepressant-like action of 7-O-ethylfangchinoline in mice

AIM

7-O-ethylfangchinoline (YH-200) is a bisbenzylisoquinoline derivative. The aim of this study was to investigate the antidepressant-like action and underlying mechanisms of YH-200 in mice.

METHODS

Mice were treated with YH-200 (15, 30, and 60 mg/kg, ig) or tetrandrine (30 and 60 mg/kg, ig) before conducting forced swimming test (FST), tail suspension test (TST), or open field test (OFT).

RESULTS

YH-200 (60 mg/kg) significantly decreased the immobility time in both FST and TST, and prolonged the latency to immobility in FST. YH-200 (60 mg/kg) was more potent than the natural bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid tetrandrine (60 mg/kg) in FST. Pretreatment with α1-adrenoceptor antagonist prazosin (1 mg/kg), β-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol (2 mg/kg), dopamine D1/D5 receptor antagonist SCH23390 (0.05 mg/kg), dopamine D2/D3 receptor antagonist haloperidol (0.2 mg/kg) or AMPA receptor antagonist NBQX (10 mg/kg) prevented the antidepressant-like action of YH-200 (60 mg/kg) in FST. In contrast, pretreatment with α2 adrenoceptor antagonist yohimbine (1 mg/kg) augmented the antidepressant-like action of YH-200 (30 mg/kg) in FST. Chronic administration of YH-200 (30 and 60 mg/kg for 14 d) did not produce drug tolerance; instead its antidepressant-like action was strengthened. Chronic administration of YH-200 did not affect the body weight of mice compared to control mice.

CONCLUSION

YH-200 exerts its antidepressant-like action in mice via acting at multi-targets, including α1, α2 and β-adrenoceptors, D1/D5 and D2 /D3 receptors, as well as AMPA receptors.

Efficacy and safety of Stephania glabra: an alkaloid-rich traditional medicinal plant

Stephania glabra (Roxb.) Miers (Menispermaceae) has long been used for the treatment of asthma, tuberculosis, dysentery, hyperglycaemia, cancer, fever, intestinal complaints, sleep disturbances and inflammation in many Asian countries. It mainly contains alkaloids and, until now, over 30 alkaloids such as bisbenzylisoquinolines, hasubanalactams, berberines and aporphines have been isolated from its tuber. Most of its traditional medicinal activities are scientifically approved by various in vitro and in vivo studies. It shows remarkable anti-psychotic, anti-diabetic, antipyretic, analgesic, antimicrobial and anti-hypertensive activities. This work includes comprehensive information on the ethnobotany, chemistry and pharmacology of S. glabra. This review also focuses on the future perspectives with main emphasis on the establishment of therapeutic index and safety index of the plant. This review concludes that S. glabra has a great potential to treat various diseases, and could be used as a source for novel healthcare products in the near future, which needs further studies.