Antipyretic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of Kickxia ramosissima

Kaempferol alleviates bisphenol A reproductive toxicity in rats in a dose-dependent manner

BACKGROUND

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), including bisphenol A (BPA), are a major cause of male infertility by disrupting spermatogenesis.

OBJECTIVE

Here, we examined the potential protective benefits of kaempferol (KMF), a flavonol known for its antioxidant properties, on BPA-induced reproductive toxicity in adult male rats.

METHODS

Human skin fibroblast cells (HNFF-P18) underwent cell viability assays. Thirty-five male Wistar rats were assigned to four groups: 1) control, 2) BPA (10 mg/kg), 3,4) BPA, and different dosages of KMF (1 and 10 mg/kg). The study examined the rats' testosterone serum level, antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), oxidative markers malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC), body weight, weight ratios of testis and prostate, and histopathological examinations.

RESULTS

The study revealed that using KMF to treat rats exposed to BPA increased cell viability. Moreover, the rats' testosterone levels, which BPA reduced, showed a significant increase after KMF was included in the treatment regimen. Treatment with BPA led to oxidative stress and tissue damage, but simultaneous treatment with KMF restored the damaged tissue to its normal state. Histopathology studies on testis and prostate tissues showed that KMF had an ameliorative impact on BPA-induced tissue damage.

CONCLUSIONS

The research suggests that KMF, a flavonol, could protect male rats from the harmful effects of BPA on reproductive health, highlighting its potential healing properties.

Structural characterization and anti-inflammatory activity of a novel neutral polysaccharide isolated from Smilax glabra Roxb

Crude polysaccharides isolated from Smilax glabra were screened for anti-inflammatory activity using mice ear swelling animal experiments, during which the neutral polysaccharide S1 was identified. The structural characteristics and anti-inflammatory effects of the anti-inflammatory S1 polysaccharide were then investigated. The results showed that S1 was mainly composed of rhamnose, arabinose, galactose, glucose, xylose, and mannose. The structure of the main chain consisted of →6)-α-Galp-(1 → 6)-β-Galp-(1 → 4)-α-Xylp-(1 → 6)-β-Galp-(1→, with branched chains comprising α-Araf-(1 → 4)-α → Manp-(1 → and β-Rhap-(1 → 4)-α-Glcp-(1 → units. Furthermore, S1 did not have a triple helix conformation. S1 could inhibit NO secretion, reduce the levels of pro-inflammatory factors (IL-6 and TNF-α), and significantly reduce LPS-stimulated inflammatory damage in RAW 264.7 cells by inhibiting activation of the NF-κB (p65) pathway. These results shed light on the possibility of S1 to be developed as a novel anti-inflammatory drug for therapeutic purposes.

Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of 80% Methanol Extract and Solvent Fractions of Ehretia cymosa Thonn (Boraginaceae) Leaves in Rodents

Background

Ethnobotanical studies in various districts of Ethiopia reported that Ehretia cymosa (E. cymosa) is used for the management of headache, abdominal pain, arthritis and rheumatism. However, there is no scientific investigation done so far to confirm these traditional claims. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of the 80% methanol extract and fractions of E. cymosa leaves.

Methods

The dried and pulverized leaves of E. cymosa were soaked with 80% methanol to obtain a crude extract. Fractionation was done using chloroform, ethyl acetate and water by a soxhlet apparatus. The analgesic effects of the crude extract and solvent fractions were assessed using acetic acid-induced writhing and hot plate tests whereas anti-inflammatory activities were investigated using carrageenan-induced paw edema and cotton-pellet-induced granuloma models.

Results

In all the tested doses, the 80% methanol extract and solvent fractions revealed substantial (p < 0.001) analgesic activities in acetic acid induced writhing test. In the hot plate method, all the tested doses of E. cymosa crude extract and the solvent fractions produced significant analgesic activities (p < 0.05). In the carrageenan-induced acute inflammation model, all tested doses of the crude extract and solvent fractions resulted in a significant decline in paw edema. The 80% methanol extract and solvent fractions of E. cymosa at all the tested doses significantly reduced inflammatory exudates and granuloma mass formations (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

From the results of this investigation, it can be stated that 80% methanol extract, aqueous, ethyl acetate and chloroform fractions of E. cymosa exhibited considerable analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities, supporting the plant's traditional use as a remedy for a variety of painful and inflammatory conditions.

Evaluation of Analgesics and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of the Root Extract of Impatiens rothii (Balsaminaceae) in Rodents

Background

The roots of Impatiens rothii has been used as a traditional remedy for painful conditions, rheumatism, isthmus and crural aches. However, the analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of this plant have yet to be scientifically confirmed. The purpose of this study was to explore possible analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities 80% methanolic root extract of Impatiens rothii.

Methods

To obtain the crude extract, the roots of Impatiens rothii that had been dried and ground up were macerated in 80% methanol. The analgesic activity was determined using acetic acid-induced writhing and hot plate tests in mice, whereas the anti-inflammatory activity was analyzed using carrageenan-induced paw edema model in rats. The extract was orally administered at a dose of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg.

Results

All tested doses of Impatiens rothii extract showed significant analgesic activity (p<0.05) at observations of 30 to 120 minutes compared to the negative control in the hot plate test. In acetic acid-induced writhing test all tested doses of the 80% methanol extract of Impatiens rothii significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the number of writhing. In comparison to the control group, all tested doses displayed a significant decrease in paw edema, which appeared 2-5 hours after induction (p<0.05).

Conclusion

From the results of this study, it can be stated that 80% methanolic extract of Impatiens rothii possessed substantial analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities, hence providing scientific basis for the use of this plant in the treatment of pain and inflammatory diseases.

Phillygenin from Forsythia suspensa leaves exhibits analgesic potential and anti-inflammatory activity in carrageenan-induced paw edema in mice

Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl (Oleaceae) leaves are valuable sources of phillygenin. This study aimed to isolate phillygenin from F. suspensa leaves and examine its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Phillygenin was successfully extracted and isolated from F. suspensa leaves after fermentation. Phillygenin significantly reduced the number of writhing induced by acetic acid, prolonged the latency period in the hot plate test, and inhibited the xylene-induced ear edema and carrageenan-induced paw edema in mice. IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, NO, and PGE₂ levels in the carrageenan-induced paw edema were notably reduced after pretreatment with phillygenin. Phillygenin significantly decreased the iNOS and COX-2 protein expressions and the IκB-α and NF-κB p65 phosphorylation. This study demonstrated that phillygenin is a potential therapeutic candidate for managing pain and inflammation-mediated disorders. The study contributes to the comprehensive development and utilization of F. suspensa leaves for economic and health care. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Phillygenin is one of the major active ingredients in Forsythia suspensa. But the content of phillygenin in F. suspensa is very low which limits its application. Phillygenin has potential pharmacological activity and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the potential effects of phillygenin on analgesic activity have not been clarified. Furthermore, the data on its anti-inflammatory activity in vivo are relatively limited. This study evaluated the analgesic activity for the first time and the acute anti-inflammatory effect of phillygenin from F. suspensa leaves by fermentation, which indicated phillygenin is a potential therapeutic candidate for managing pain and inflammation-mediated disorders.

Pharmacological activities and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis for the identification of bioactive compounds from Justicia adhatoda L

The current study aimed to assess the pharmacological potential of Justicia adhatoda by evaluating the presence of biologically active compounds using the gas chromatography–mass spectrometry approach and to undertake biological activities for the effectiveness of the present compounds using standard tests. A total of 21 compounds were identified in the gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of the ethyl acetate fraction in which 14 of the identified compounds are recognized for their pharmacological potential in the literature. In total, four fractions (ethyl acetate, chloroform, n-hexane, and aqueous) were evaluated for pharmacological activities. In carrageenan-induced inflammation, the chloroform fraction exhibited high anti-inflammatory activity (46.51%). Similarly, the analgesic potential of ethyl acetate fraction was the most effective (300 mg/kg) in the acetic acid-induced test. Similarly, in the formalin test, ethyl acetate fraction exhibited maximum inhibition in both early (74.35%) and late phases (88.38). Maximum inhibition of pyrexia (77.98%) was recorded for the ethyl acetate fraction (300 mg/kg). In DPPH assay, the ethyl acetate fraction revealed the highest scavenging potential among other fractions (50 μg/ml resulted in 50.40% and 100 μg/ml resulted in 66.74% scavenging).

Chemical Composition of Kickxia aegyptiaca Essential Oil and Its Potential Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities

The exploration of new bioactive compounds from natural resources as alternatives to synthetic chemicals has recently attracted the attention of scientists and researchers. To our knowledge, the essential oil (EO) of Kickxia aegyptiaca has not yet been explored. Thus, the present study was designed to explore the EO chemical profile of K. aegyptiaca for the first time, as well as evaluate its antioxidant and antibacterial activities, particularly the extracts of this plant that have been reported to possess various biological activities. The EO was extracted from the aerial parts via hydrodistillation and then characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The extracted EO was tested for its antioxidant activity via the reduction in the free radicals, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS). In addition, the EO was tested as an antibacterial mediator against eight Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial isolates. Forty-three compounds were identified in the EO of K. aegyptiaca, with a predominance of terpenoids (75.46%). Oxygenated compounds were the main class, with oxygenated sesquiterpenes attaining 40.42% of the EO total mass, while the oxygenated monoterpenes comprised 29.82%. The major compounds were cuminic aldehyde (21.99%), caryophyllene oxide (17.34%), hexahydrofarnesyl acetone (11.74%), ar-turmerone (8.51%), aromadendrene oxide (3.74%), and humulene epoxide (2.70%). According to the IC₅₀ data, the K. aegyptiaca EO revealed considerable antioxidant activity, with IC₅₀ values of 30.48 mg L^-1 and 35.01 mg L^-1 for DPPH and ABTS, respectively. In addition, the EO of K. aegyptiaca showed more substantial antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacterial isolates compared to Gram-negative. Based on the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), the EO showed the highest activity against Escherichia coli and Bacillus cereus, with an MIC value of 0.031 mg mL^-1. The present study showed, for the first time, that the EO of K. aegyptiaca has more oxygenated compounds with substantial antioxidant and antibacterial activities. This activity could be attributed to the effect of the main compounds, either singular or synergistic. Thus, further studies are recommended to characterize the major compounds, either alone or in combination as antioxidants or antimicrobial agents, and evaluate their biosafety.

Evaluation of Toxicity, Bacteriostatic, Analgesic, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antipyretic Activities of Huangqin-Honghua-Pugongying-Jinyinhua Extract

The extensive use of antibiotics has caused the global spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria and genes, seriously reducing antibiotic efficacy and threatening animal and human health. As an alternative, traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM) was used in this study for its lack of drug resistance and low toxicity. Huangqin-honghua-pugongying-jinyinhua extract (HHPJE), a novel TCVM, consists of the extracts of Huangqin (Scutellaria baicalensis), Honghua (Carthami Flos), Pugongying (Taraxacum) and Jinyinhua (Lonicerae Japonicae Flos), and was developed to treat bovine mastitis. In this study, we evaluated the toxicity, bacteriostatic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic activities of HHPJE. Our results show that HHPJE did not show any acute oral toxicity and can be considered safe for oral administration. Additionally, HHPJE possessed a dose-dependent antibacterial effect on Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus agalactiae and Streptococcus dysgalactiae. HHPJE (60, 30 and 15 g/kg) can reduce the abdominal pain by 44.83 ± 7.69%, 43.15 ± 9.50% and 26.14 ± 4.17%, respectively. The percentages of anti-inflammation inhibition (60, 30 and 15 g/kg) were 35.34 ± 2.17%, 22.29 ± 2.74% and 12.06 ± 3.61%, respectively. The inhibition rates (60, 30 and 15 g/kg) of antipyretic activity were 82.05%, 65.71% and 52.80%, respectively. The evaluation of pharmacodynamics and toxicity indicate that HHPJE possesses significant bacteriostatic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic potential, and also that it is safe for acute oral toxicity, which means it has potential value for treating bovine mastitis in future and alleviating clinical symptoms with no drug resistance or side effects.

Network pharmacology integrated with molecular docking reveals the common experiment-validated antipyretic mechanism of bitter-cold herbs

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Bitter-cold herbs have been used to clearing heat and expelling damp in clinical practice in China for thousands of years.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate the common molecular mechanism of bitter-cold herbs through network pharmacology analysis, molecular docking and experimental validation in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Network pharmacological analysis integrated with molecular docking was employed to identify the active compounds and core action targets of the bitter-cold herbs. Then, the yeast-induced pathological model was established, and the antipyretic effect of the herbs was evaluated by checking rectal temperatures of the mice hourly. Lastly, the protein expression of core targets was examined to reveal the antipyretic mechanism.

RESULTS

A total of 52 lead compounds from the four bitter-cold herbs, Phellodendri Chinensis Cortex (PCC), Sophorae Flavescentis Radix (SFR), Gentianae Radix Et Rhozima (GRER) and Coptidis Rhizoma (CR), and 248 compounds-related targets were screened out with PTGS2 ranking the first. The results from molecular docking showed that 22 compounds adopted the same orientation as aspirin and had an excellent stability in the active site pocket of PTGS2. Furthermore, these herbs exerted potential therapeutic effects through 38 related pathways. On the other hand, the outcome of animal experiments showed that they could significantly attenuate the yeast-induced mice fever with dose-dependent relationship. Further experimental results demonstrated that administration of yeast suspension raised protein expression of PTGS2 significantly, which was evidently inhibited in the high or low-dose groups of GRER as well as in the low-dose group of SFR (P < 0.01) though a higher expression of PTGS2 was shown in the low-dose group of CR compared with FM group (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The bitter-cold herbs can alleviate fever response and their antipyretic effect may mainly be attributed to regulating the expression of PTGS2 after the formation of ligand-receptor/PTGS2 complexes, and their active compounds might be nominated as antipyretic lead-ligand candidates.

Integrating Lifestyle Focused Approaches into the Management of Primary Dysmenorrhea: Impact on Quality of Life

OBJECTIVE

This narrative review aims to identify alternative ways to improve the symptoms of primary dysmenorrhea (PD).

BACKGROUND

PD refers to endometrial painful cramps during the premenstrual period. This condition affects a lot of women worldwide and is accompanied with absenteeism and high economic costs, thus, risk-free, and effective therapeutic approaches are needed. Pharmacological agents such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and oral contraceptive pills (OCPs), which are widely prescribed for these women, demonstrate adequate efficacy in alleviating pain and discomfort. The long natural course of the disease dictates remedies that focus on lifestyle changes and on improvement of Quality-of-Life (QoL) for women suffering with PD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Five major search engines, namely MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were searched for articles published prior to October 2020 focused in PD. A total of 74 paper were included.

DISCUSSION

Physical activity, for instance yoga, aromatherapy massage, and other forms of relaxation, vitamins and dietary changes, acupressure and acupuncture,a and some psychological interventions are just few of the proposed health behavior targeted approaches in cases of PD. This review focuses on lifestyle changes and alternative methods that could potentially result in minimizing symptoms of PD and in improving overall QoL for these patients, by providing current scientific evidence on their efficacy.

CONCLUSION

Complementary and alternative medicine practices (CAM) are widely accepted by women. International literature provides controversial scientific evidence, thus further studies need to be conducted in order to prove or disregard their efficacy in cases of PD.

Vincetoxicum arnottianum ameliorate inflammation by suppressing oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory mediators in rat

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Aerial parts of Vincetoxicum arnottianum (Wight) Wight (Family Apocynaceae) are used by local communities for inflammation, healing of wound and injuries and also for urticaria.

AIM OF STUDY

Extract/fractions of V. arnottianum were evaluated for potential anti-inflammatory activity in rat.

METHODS

Methanol extract of aerial parts of V. arnottianum (VAM) was partitioned on polarity for n-hexane (VAH), ethyl acetate (VAE), butanol (VAB) and aqueous (VAA) fractions. The extract/fractions were evaluated during in vitro assay for protection against heat induced protein denaturation and Carrageenan induced paw inflammation in rat. VAM and VAE were evaluated for anti-inflammatory potential against formalin and Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA) induced inflammation in paw of rat while croton oil induced inflammation in ear of rat, respectively. The level of inflammatory mediators; IL-17, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and nitric oxide (NO) was estimated in serum of rat.

RESULTS

All the extract/fractions used in this study exhibited anti-inflammatory activity. However, VAE (300 mg/kg) exhibited potential anti-inflammatory activity in carrageenan (78.06 ± 4.6%), formalin (54.71 ± 0.34%) and croton oil (73.12 ± 1.9%) induced edema in rat. In FCA induced inflammation model VAM and VAE showed admiring proficiencies against alteration of body weight and organ weight indices, paw edema and histological studies. In serum increased level of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-17) and NO during adjuvant-induced inflammation were more efficiently restored with VAE treatment to rat. Presence of polyphenolics; rutin, gallic acid, caffeic acid, apigenin, myricetin and quercetin was indicated in VAE.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest the presence of anti-inflammatory constituents in V. arnottianum.

Gonadoprotective ability of Vincetoxicum arnottianum extract against bisphenol A-induced testicular toxicity and hormonal imbalance in male Sprague Dawley rats

Vincetoxicum arnottianum (Wight) of family Apocynaceae is a rich source of therapeutic alkaloids, phenolics and flavonoids. Study aims to evaluate the protective potential of methanol extract of Vincetoxicum arnottianum (VAM) on bisphenol A (BPA)-induced testicular toxicity in male Sprague Dawley rat. Quantitative analysis of VAM for total phenolic (TPC), total flavonoid (TFC) and total alkaloid content (TAC) along with HPLC analysis for polyphenolics was carried out. BPA-induced testicular toxicity was determined through analysis of antioxidant enzymes, DNA damages and testicular histopathology along with reproductive hormones in serum of rat. VAM was constituted of TFC (382.50 ± 1.67 μg GAE/mg), TPC (291.17 ± 0.82 μg RE/mg), TAC (16.5 ± 0.5%), ferulic acid (2.2433 μg/mg) and vanillic acid (2.1249 μg/mg). VAM co-administration to BPA-treated rats attenuated the toxic effects of BPA and restored the body and testis weights. Altered level of luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in serum, and level of antioxidants (GSH, POD, CAT and SOD) and nitric oxide in testis tissues of BPA-induced toxicity were significantly restored by VAM. Histological and comet assay studies also sanctioned the protective potential of VAM in BPA-intoxicated rats. The presence of polyphenols and alkaloids might contribute towards the scavenging and ameliorative potential of VAM in testicular toxicity induced by BPA.

Characterization of phenolic compounds from Eugenia supra-axillaris leaf extract using HPLC-PDA-MS/MS and its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and pain killing activities in vivo

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are involved in the pathophysiology of several health disorders, among others inflammation. Polyphenols may modulate ROS related disorders. In this work, thirty-two phenolic compounds were tentatively identified in a leaf extract from Eugenia supra-axillaris Spring. ex Mart. using HPLC-MS/MS, five of which were also individually isolated and identified. The extract displayed a substantial in vitro antioxidant potential and was capable of decreasing ROS production and hsp-16.2 expression under oxidative stress conditions in vivo in the Caenorhabditis elegans model. Also, the extract showed higher inhibitory selectivity towards COX-2 than COX-1 in vitro with higher selectivity towards COX-2 than that of diclofenac. The extract also exhibited anti-inflammatory properties: It attenuated the edema thickness in a dose dependent fashion in carrageenan-induced hind-paw odema in rats. In addition, the extract reduced the carrageenan-induced leukocyte migration into the peritoneal cavity at the highest dose. Furthermore, the extract showed antipyretic and analgesic activities in a mouse model. Eugenia supra-axillaris appears to be a promising candidate in treating inflammation, pain and related oxidative stress diseases.

Optimization of Microwave-Assisted Extraction Saponins from Sapindus mukorossi Pericarps and an Evaluation of Their Inhibitory Activity on Xanthine Oxidase

A microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) method was applied to separate saponins from Sapindus mukorossi pericarps. The most important factors of the six extraction parameters were selected using Plackett–Burman designs; therefore, the further extraction procedure was optimized using the Box–Behnken designs; meanwhile, the optimum processing parameters and well-pleasing saponins extraction rate were inferred. The final operation conditions were the ethanol concentration of 40%, soaking time of 3 h, particle size of 80–100 meshes, extraction time of 13 min, solvent-solid ratio of 19 mL/g, and microwave power of 425 W. Based on the optimal extraction parameters, the extraction rate of the saponins by means of MAE technique reached 280.55 ± 6.81 mg/g, which exceeds yields acquired using conventional manners. Saponins from S. mukorossi have obvious xanthine oxidase inhibitory properties in vitro compared with allopurinol. The saponins displayed a type of competitive inhibition of xanthine oxidase. In conclusion, a MAE technique in association with a response surface design provides an efficient extraction tactics, which could sufficiently isolate saponins from S. mukorossi pericarps; further, this technique could be applied to the dissociation of other bioactive substances from plant sources. In addition, the saponins may be a promising alternative to conventional medicine to treat gout and other inflammation-associated disorders to mitigate the side effects of traditional drugs.

HPLC-ESI-MS/MS Profiling of Polyphenolics of a Leaf Extract from Alpinia zerumbet (Zingiberaceae) and Its Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Nociceptive, and Antipyretic Activities In Vivo

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been linked to several health conditions, among them inflammation. Natural antioxidants may attenuate this damage. Our study aimed to investigate the chemical composition of a methanol leaf extract from Alpinia zerumbet and its possible antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, and antipyretic effects. Altogether, 37 compounds, representing benzoic and cinnamic acid derivatives and flavonoids (aglycones and glycosides), were characterized. The extract showed substantial in vitro antioxidant effects, and inhibited both cyclooxygenase 1 (COX-1) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) in vitro, with a higher selectivity towards COX-2. It also inhibited 5-lipoxygenase (LOX) activity in vitro with nearly double the potency of zileuton, a reference 5-lipoxygenase (LOX) inhibitor. The extract exhibited anti-inflammatory effects against carrageenan-induced rat hind paw edema, and suppressed leukocyte infiltration into the peritoneal cavity in carrageenan-treated mice. Furthermore, it possessed antipyretic effects against fever induced by subcutaneous injection of Brewer's yeast in mice. Additionally, the extract demonstrated both central and peripheral anti-nociceptive effects in mice, as manifested by a decrease in the count of writhing, induced with acetic acid and an increase in the latency time in the hot plate test. These findings suggest that the leaf extract from Alpinia zerumbet could be a candidate for the development of a drug to treat inflammation and ROS related disorders.

Evaluation of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activities of the stem bark of Sapindus mukorossi

BACKGROUND

Saponins are the main constituents of genus Sapindus and have the therapeutic potential for inflammatory disorders. In this study the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic potential of the stem bark of soap nut (Sapindus mukorossi) methanol extract and its derived fractions has been investigated.

METHODS

Powder of stem bark of the S. mukorossi was extracted with methanol (SMM) and fractionated in order of n-hexane (SMH), chloroform (SMC), ethyl acetate (SME), n-butanol (SMB) and the remaining as aqueous fraction (SMA). Quantitative estimation for the total phenolic and total flavonoid content was carried out in all the extract/fractions. Further, various in vitro antioxidant assays were also performed. Anti-inflammatory (Carrageenan induced paw edema), analgesic (hot plate latency test) and antipyretic (rectal temperature) were determined in Sprague-Dawley rat.

RESULTS

Quantitative estimation of total phenolic contents in extract/fractions varied between 252.3 ± 2.41 mg of GAE/g - 594.16 ± 4.3 mg of GAE/g while the total flavonoids estimated were from 11.02 ± 1.3 mg of RUE/g to 96.9 ± 3.2 mg of RUE/g. Standard antioxidant assays such as scavenging of DPPH, hydroxyl radical, nitric oxide, phosphomolybdenum assay, reducing power, inhibition of β-carotene bleaching, iron chelation activity and inhibition of heat induced protein denaturation indicated the antioxidant potential of the extract/fractions. Carrageenan induced paw edema of rat was effectively inhibited by SMA at 300 mg/kg administration to rat (84.19 ± 1.48%) after 3 h and analgesia (latency time) in hot plate test (55.78 ± 1.22%) after 120 min. SMA at 300 mg/kg distinctly decreased the rectal temperature in brewer's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) induced pyrexia in rat.

CONCLUSION

The resulted obtained in this study suggested the therapeutic importance of stem bark of S. mukorossi in inflammatory related disorders.

Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic Effects of Polygonum orientale L. Extracts

Background and Purpose:Polygonum orientale L. (family: Polygonaceae), named Hongcao in China, is a Traditional Chinese Medicinal and has long been used for rheumatic arthralgia and rheumatoid arthritis. However, no pharmacological and mechanism study to confirm these clinic effects have been published. In this investigation, the anti-inflammatory, analgesic effects and representative active ingredient compounds of P. orientale have been studied. Methods: Dried small pieces of the stems and leaves of P. orientale were decocted with water and partitioned successively to obtain ethyl acetate and ethyl ether extract of P. orientale (POEa and POEe). Chemical compositions of them were analyzed by UPLC-Q-Exactive HRMS. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of POEa and POEe were evaluated using xylene induced ear edema, carrageenan induced paw edema, Freunds' complete adjuvant induced arthritis, and formaldehyde induced pain in rat. Their mechanisms of anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects were also studied via assays of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and PGE2 in serum. Results: UPLC-Q-Exactive HRMS analysis showed that POEa and POEe mainly contained flavonoids including orientin, isoorientin, vitexin, luteolin, and quercetin. Furthermore, anti-inflammatory effects of POEa and POEe were evident in xylene induced ear edema. The paw edema in Freund's complete adjuvant and carrageenan were significantly (P < 0.05, 0.01) inhibited by POEa (5, 7.5 g/kg). POEe (7.5 g/kg) was significantly (P < 0.05, 0.01) inhibited Freunds' complete adjuvant induced paw edema and cotton pellet induced granuloma formation. Similarly, POEe significantly (P < 0.05, 0.01) inhibited the pain sensation in acetic acid induced writhing test. POEa (5, 7.5 g/kg) significantly (P < 0.05, 0.01) inhibited formaldehyde induced pain in both phases. POEa (7.5 g/kg) markedly (P < 0.05) prolonged the latency period of hot plate test after 30 and 60 min. The concentrations of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and PGE2 were significantly (P < 0.01) decreased by POEa (3.75, 5 g/kg). Conclusion: POEa and POEe have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which was mainly relevant to the presence of flavonoids, including orientin, isoorientin, vitexin, luteolin, and quercetin. The mechanism of anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of POEa may be to decrease the concentrations of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and PGE2 in serum.

Antimicrobial and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Ethanol Extract of Corylopsis coreana Uyeki Flos

Background:

Corylopsis coreana Uyeki (Hamamelidaceae) is a medicinal plant cultivated in Northeast Asia. Previously, we have reported that an ethanol extract of Corylopsis coreana Uyeki flos (ECCF) contains four active compounds with antioxidant activity.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial spectrum against infectious bacteria and anti-inflammatory effect of ECCF in a mouse model of acute local inflammation.

Materials and Methods:

In vitro antimicrobial susceptibility was evaluated using standard plate assay technique. Antimicrobial activities (minimum inhibitory concentration, MIC; μg/mL) were determined with the serial dilution method. In vivo anti-inflammatory activity was studied using a mouse model of carrageenan-induced air pouch inflammation.

Results:

The ECCF showed antimicrobial activities against general bacteria and drug-resistant bacteria including Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus luteus ATCC 9341, Mycrobacterium smegmatis ATCC 9341, Mycrobacterium smegmatis ATCC 9341, Salmonella typhimrium KCTC 1925, and nine methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains, with MIC values ranging from 250 to 1000 μg/mL. In in vivo mouse model, inflammatory morphologic changes observed in the air pouch membrane were restored to its normal condition by the ECCF treatment. Moreover, the ECCF significantly reduced exudate volumes, protein contents, inflammatory cell counts, and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels in the exudates recovered from air pouches of the mouse model. Flavonoids in the ECCF were found to contain bergenin, quercitrin, and quercetin with reported anti-inflammatory activity via suppressing tumor necrosis factor-α production.

Conclusion:

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to demonstrate the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities of ECCF. Our results suggest that the ECCF might potentially serve as an alternative or complementary medicine for treating inflammatory diseases caused by microbial infection.

SUMMARY

ECCF showed antimicrobial activity against infectious bacteria and multidrug-resistant strains.

ECCF exhibited anti-inflammatory activity in a carrageenan-induced air pouch mouse model.

ECCF contained several active constituents such as bergenin, quercitrin, and quercetin.

Abbreviations used:Corylopsis coreana CCF: Uyeki flos, ECCF: ethanol extract of CCF

Investigations on anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of Alnus nitida Spach (Endl). stem bark in Sprague Dawley rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Stem bark of Alnus nitida (Spach) Endl. (family Betulaceae) is used by local communities in northern areas of Pakistan as a remedy for swelling, injuries and pain. However no pharmacological study of this plant has been reported to confirm these activities. In this study anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect of A. nitida stem bark have been evaluated.

METHODS

Powder of the stem bark of A. nitida was extracted with methanol (ANBM) and partitioned in escalating polarity to get the n-hexane (ANBH), chloroform (ANBC), ethyl acetate (ANBE) and the residual soluble aqueous (ANBA) fractions. The methanol extract and derived fractions were evaluated for anti-inflammatory activity by using in vitro heat induced albumin denaturation assay and various in vivo assays; carrageenan-induced hind paw edema method, Freunds' complete adjuvant induced arthritis, histamine induced paw edema and xylene induced ear edema in Sprague Dawley rat. The extracts/fractions were also evaluated for analgesic effects by using hot plate analgesic test and acetic acid induced writhing test in rat. The ANBM composition was analyzed by HPLC-DAD and GC-MS analysis.

RESULTS

Results of heat induced albumin denaturation activity indicated that among the extract/fractions ANBC at concentration range of 100-500µg/ml remarkably protected the heat induced albumin denaturation. The pretreatment with ANBC significantly reduced the carrageenan induced edema with 90.81±1.6% after 4h, comparing with 86.63±3.42% reduction produced by the reference drug diclofenac potassium. Histopathological alterations of the gastric and hind paw were decreased with the extract/fractions. Furthermore, anti-inflammatory effects of ANBC were evident in Freunds' complete adjuvant induced arthritis, histamine induced paw edema and xylene induced ear edema. The latency time in hot plate analgesic assay with ANBC (61.59±0.38%) after 90min was comparable to standard drug morphine (69.31±2.67%) and aspirin (67.24±2.08%). Similarly ANBC significantly (p<0.01) inhibited the pain sensation in acetic acid induced writhing test in rat. HPLC-DAD analysis of ANBM indicated the presence of gallic acid, catechin and rutin while the GC-MS analysis of ANBM indicated the presence of 30 compounds predominantly of neophytadiene, 3,7,11,15 tetramethyl-2-hexadecen-1-ol, phytol, vitamin E and linalool.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study suggested that the presence of polyphenols, sterols, terpenoids and other constituents might contributed towards the anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of the crude methanol extract of A. nitida bark and its derived fractions. This study endorsed the folklore use of A. nitida bark for inflammation related disorders.

Forsythoside A exerts antipyretic effect on yeast-induced pyrexia mice via inhibiting transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 function

Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) is a non-selective cation channel gated by noxious heat, playing major roles in thermoregulation. Forsythoside A (FT-A) is the most abundant phenylethanoid glycosides in Fructus Forsythiae, which has been prescribed as a medicinal herb for treating fever in China for a long history. However, how FT-A affects pyrexia and what is the underlying molecular mechanism remain largely unknown. Here we found that FT-A exerted apparent antipyretic effect through decreasing the levels of prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) and interleukin 8 (IL-8) in a dose-dependent fashion on the yeast induced pyrexia mice. Interestingly, FT-A significantly downregulated TRPV1 expression in the hypothalamus and dorsal root ganglion (DRG) of the yeast induced pyrexia mice. Moreover, FT-A inhibited IL-8 and PGE₂ secretions, and calcium influx in the HEK 293T-TRPV1 cells after stimulated with capsaicin, the specific TRPV1 agonist. Further investigation of the molecular mechanisms revealed that FT-A treatment rapidly inhibited phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 in both yeast induced pyrexia mice and HEK 293T-TRPV1 cells. These results suggest that FT-A may serve as a potential antipyretic agent and the therapeutic action of Fructus Forsythiae on pyretic related disease is, in part, due to the FT-A activities.

Evaluation of phytochemicals, antioxidant activity and amelioration of pulmonary fibrosis with Phyllanthus emblica leaves

BACKGROUND

In the present study the antioxidant potential of a methanol extract of Phyllanthus emblica leaves (PELE) was determined by in vitro methods as well as by an in vivo animal model, along with HPLC-DAD screening for phyto-constituents.

METHODS

The in vitro antioxidant potential of PELE was assessed by scavenging of DPPH, nitric oxide and anti-lipid peroxidation assays. For in vivo evaluation, a 60-day experimental plan was followed in which Sprague Dawley rats were administered with 1 mL/kg of CCl4 (CCl4 : DMSO + Olive oil; 30 % v/v) alone or with different doses of PELE (200, 400 mg/kg p.o.). Silymarin (100 mg/kg) as standard drug was also administered to CCl4 treated rats. HPLC-DAD analysis was performed to quantify polyphenolic phytochemicals.

RESULTS

PELE exhibited an appreciable in vitro antioxidant activity and scavenged the DPPH radical (IC50 = 39.73 ± 2.12 μg/mL) and nitric oxide (IC50 = 39.14 ± 2.31 μg/mL) while for anti-lipid peroxidation moderate antioxidant activity was noticed. Reduced levels of antioxidant enzyme activities viz., superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and reduced glutathione (GSH) whereas enhanced levels of total extractable proteins, lipid peroxides (TBARS), nitrite and H2O2 were induced by CCl4 administration in lungs of rat. Co-administration of PELE to rats exhibited a dose dependent decline in the oxidative injuries induced in these parameters. Histopathological damages such as disrupted alveoli, infiltration of macrophages and modified architecture of Clara cells was reversed to the normal state with co-administration of PELE. HPLC-DAD analysis indicated the presence of gallic acid, rutin, kaempferol and caffeic acid in the PELE.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study demonstrate that presence of polyphenolics and other active constituents in PELE might play a significant role in repairing the pulmonary damages instigated with CCl4.

Protective effects of Fraxinus xanthoxyloides (Wall.) leaves against CCl4 induced hepatic toxicity in rat

BACKGROUND

Leaves and root bark of Fraxinus xanthoxyloides Wall. (Oleaceae) are used locally for the treatment of jaundice, malaria and pneumonia. Decoction of stem, twigs and bark is used in pain, internal injuries, rheumatism and in bone fracture. In this investigation we have evaluated the methanol extract of leaves for its hepatoprotective potential against CCl4 induced hepatic injuries in rat.

METHODS

Powder of F. xanthoxyloides leaves was extracted with methanol (FXM) and subjected for the determination of polyphenolics through HPLC-DAD analysis. Sprague-Dawley (Rattus novergicus) male rats were divided into eight groups (six rats in each). Group I: non-treated control; Group II: vehicle treated (DMSO plus olive oil) while Group III- VI treated with 1 ml/kg body weight (bw) of CCl4 (30 % in olive oil) for 30 days (15 dosages) to induce the hepatic injuries. Group IV: treated with silymarin (100 mg/kg bw); Group V and VI with FXM (200, 400 mg/kg bw) on alternate days with CCl4 treatment. Group VII and VIII was administered with FXM (200, 400 mg/kg bw) alone (15 dosages). After 30 days the serum was evaluated for liver function enzymes and biochemical markers, liver samples for antioxidant enzymes, biochemical markers, comet assay and for histopathology.

RESULTS

HPLC-DAD analysis of FXM revealed the existence of rutin and caffeic acid. In CCl4 treated rats the level of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), total bilirubin was significantly increased while the albumin concentration in serum was decreased as compared to control group. The level of hepatic antioxidant enzymes, catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and glutathione reductase (GSR) was significantly decreased against the control group. Further, significant decrease in GSH while increase in lipid peroxides (TBARS), H2O2, DNA damages and comet length was induced with CCl4 in hepatic tissues of rat. In contrast, co-administration of FXM and silymarin restored the biochemical and histopathological status of the liver.

CONCLUSION

Results of present investigation revealed that F. xanthoxyloides leaves possibly protect the liver against CCl4 induced injuries like silymarin by its antioxidant constituents.