Evaluation of the hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity of Boehmeria nivea var. nivea and B. nivea var. tenacissima

Edible Solanum trilobatum chloroform extract modulates CCL4 induced toxic changes in rat liver by enhancing the antioxidant activity

Liver diseases are one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality all over world. Environmental chemicals and pesticides are one of the most common causative factors for liver injury. Since there are no reliable hepatoprotective drugs available, many plant extracts are frequently utilized to treat liver disease. Therefore, searching for effective and safe plant based drugs for liver disorders is a matter of interest. In this study, hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity of the polyphenol rich chloroform extract of Solanum trilobatum (CST) was evaluated on CCl4 induced acute hepatotoxicity in Sprague Dawley rats. METHODS: Cytotoxic effect of CST on cancer cells as well as primary rat hepatocytes and proliferative effect on human peripheral blood lymphocyte (PBL) were evaluated in vitro. Animals were divided into 4 groups control group (received only normal saline), CCl4 group (received only CCl4 (2.0g/kg body weight), CST group (received 50 mg/kg and CCl4 (2.0g/kg body weight), CST group (received 100mg/kg and CCl4 (2.0g/kg body weight). After 14 consecutive days of treatment, the levels of hepatic biochemical markers, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, peroxidase and catalase activities were measured. The histopathological study of control and treated animals were also performed. RESULTS: Administration of CST prior to CCl4 was found to significantly inhibit the hepatotoxicity produced by CCl4 since CST restored the elevated activities of serum and liver marker enzymes and also enhanced the antioxidant enzyme levels. Histological changes caused by CCl4 were found to be significantly reversed by CST, which further confirms the dual effect of CST on CCl4-induced acute liver injury as a hepatoprotectant and antioxidant. CONCLUSIONS: The present study clearly demonstrates that CST contains therapeutic components which in combination/alone possess hepatoprotective and in vivo antioxidant effect.

Laxative and antioxidant effects of ramie (Boehmeria nivea L.) leaf extract in experimental constipated rats

Ramie leaf (Boehmeria nivea L.) is rich in cellulose, polyphenol compounds, vitamin C, and minerals. The leaves of this plant, which are used for medicinal purposes, have long been reported to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticolitis, and antidiabetic effects. We investigated the protective effects of ramie leaf ethanol extract (RLE) against loperamide-induced constipation and oxidative stress in rats. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were administered 200 or 400 mg/kg body weight of RLE (RLEL and RLEH groups) by gavage, while normal (NOR) and control (CON) rats received saline. Loperamide (4.0 mg/kg, twice per day) was injected subcutaneously to induce constipation in RLEL, RLEH, and CON groups. Total fecal number, wet weight, and water content decreased, while the total number of loperamide-induced fecal pellets in the distal colon increased with administration of RLE in a dose-dependent manner. Gastrointestinal transit time was more greatly reduced in RLE-treated groups than in the CON group. Serum total cholesterol (TC) level, as well as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, was significantly lower in both RLEL and RLEH groups compared with the CON group. Intestinal mucosa malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production decreased significantly in a dose-dependent manner in the RLE-treated groups. Loperamide decreased the antioxidant enzyme activity, including that of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), while RLE administration increased the antioxidant activity. These results suggest that RLE exerts potent laxative and antioxidant effects in model rats with loperamide-induced constipation.

Inner morphological and chemical differentiation of Boehmeria species

The present study was designed to establish quality control parameters for pharmacognostic evaluation and differentiation of eight locally derived Boehmeria species, B. gracilis, B. nivea, B. pannosa, B. platanifolia, B. quelpaertensis, B. spicata, B. splitgerbera, B. tricuspis, and two varieties named B. japonica var. longispica, B. nivea var. concolor, which have been utilized as the folk medicine, 'Mo-Si-Pool' in Korea. Although the outer morphological study of these species had been reported, there is no pharmacognostical description yet. Therefore, inner morphological evaluation on leaf midrib, petiole and stem of eight Boehmeria species and two varieties was accomplished along with preliminary phytochemical analysis by HPLC-DAD profiling. The microscopic data showed discriminative inner morphological characteristics such as collenchyma cell layer, thickness of cortex and xylem, frequency of druse and hairs, and number of vascular bundles. The HPLC profiles exhibited more than four characteristic peaks. The molecular ions of the four peaks (1-4) were tentatively identified by ESI-MS, and their structures were identified by NMR spectroscopy to be the flavonoids, rutin (1), isoquercetin (2) and kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside (3), and a phenanthroquinolizidine alkaloid, (-)-cryptopleurine (4). While compounds 1 and 2 were detected in all samples, compound 4 was determined only in B. japonica var. longispica, B. pannosa and B. quelpaertensis and B. splitgerbera. These findings provide the initial scientific criteria for proper identification and establishment of standards for use of Boehmeria species in traditional medicine.

Effect of amurca on olive oil quality during storage

Total phenolic compounds (TPC), antioxidant activity (AA), lipid peroxidation inhibition (percent) (LPOIP), free fatty acid and peroxide values were measured in olive oil samples over the period of 12 months in comparison with oil samples extracted from amurca (olive oil lees) and olive oil samples taken from the bottom of the canister (near amurca) after 12 months of storage. Olive oil samples taken over the period of 12 months possessed decreasing amounts of TPC, AA and LPOIP, which led to increased peroxide and free fatty acid values. In contrast, oil extracted from amurca and olive oil samples taken from the bottom of the container after 12 months of storage possessed significantly higher TPC, AA, LPOIP and consequently lower free fatty acid and peroxide values. These results show that the presence of naturally occurring amurca (sediment) in stored olive oil stabilizes olive oil quality during storage.

Start codon targeted (SCoT) polymorphism reveals genetic diversity in wild and domesticated populations of ramie (Boehmeria nivea L. Gaudich.), a premium textile fiber producing species

Twenty-four start codon targeted (SCoT) markers were used to assess genetic diversity and population structure of indigenous, introduced and domesticated ramie (Boehmeria nivea L. Gaudich.). A total of 155 genotypes from five populations were investigated for SCoT polymorphism, which produced 136 amplicons with 87.5% polymorphism. Polymorphism information content and resolving power of the SCoT markers were 0.69 and 3.22, respectively. The Indian ramie populations exhibited high SCoT polymorphism (> 50%), high genetic differentiation (G_ST = 0.27) and moderate gene flow (N_m = 1.34). Analysis of molecular variance identified significant differences for genetic polymorphism among the populations explaining 13.1% of the total variation. The domesticated population exhibited higher genetic polymorphism and heterozygosity compared to natural populations. Cluster analysis supported population genetic analysis and suggested close association between introduced and domesticated genotypes. The present study shows effectiveness of employing SCoT markers in a cross pollinated heterozygous species like Boehmeria, and would be useful for further studies in population genetics, conservation genetics and cultivar improvement.

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Genetic diversity and population structure of ramie (Boehmeria nivea) were assessed by SCoT markers.

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SCoT markers revealed high polymorphism and resolving ability in Boehmeria nivea.

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The wild ramie showed moderate heterozygosity and gene flow with high genetic variation, suggesting unidirectional gene flow.

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The domesticated population exhibited highest heterozygosity and close association with introduced population.

Comparative Hepatoprotective Activity of Ethanolic Extracts of Cuscuta australis against Acetaminophen Intoxication in Wistar Rats

This study investigates the comparative hepatoprotective activity of crude ethanol extracts of Cuscuta australis against acetaminophen (APAP) intoxication. Thirty-six rats were randomly divided into six groups of 6 replicates: Group 1 which served as control received water. Group 2 was orally administered 835 mg/kg body wt. of paracetamol on day 8. Groups 3 and 4 were orally administered ethanolic extracts of the seed of Cuscuta australis in doses of 125 mg/kg and 250 mg/kg, respectively, for 7 days and then intoxicated as in Group 2 on the 8th day. Groups 5 and 6 received similar oral doses of Cuscuta australis stem extracts for 7 days and then intoxicated as in Groups 3 and 4. Group 2 rats showed severe periportal hepatic necrosis, significantly elevated serum hepatic injury markers, markedly increased lipid peroxidation, and decreased hepatic antioxidant enzymes activities. Remarkably, Cuscuta australis (seed and stem) extract pretreatments in Groups 3, 4, 5, and 6, most especially, the stem extract pretreatment in Groups 5 and 6, improved better the hepatic histoarchitecture, the hepatocellular, and the oxidative stress injury markers in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusively, ethanol extractions of Cuscuta australis stem appear to protect the liver from acetaminophen intoxication better than the seed counterpart.

Investigation of the Antioxidant and Hepatoprotective Potential of Hypericum mysorense

Background:Hypericum is a well-known plant genus in herbal medicine. Hypericum mysorense (Family: Hypericaceae), a plant belonging to the same genus, is well known in folklore medicine for its varied therapeutic potential. Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate the different parts of the plant for antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties. Materials and Methods: The methanol extracts of Hypericum mysorense prepared from various parts of the plant were tested in vitro for their free radical scavenging activity against ABTS^• (diammonium salt), DPPH^• (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl), NO^•, O₂^•− and ^•OH radicals, using standard systems of assays. The total antioxidant capacity, total phenolic and total flavonoid content of the extracts were analyzed. Further, the leaf and flowering top extracts were tested for their in vivo antioxidant and hepatoprotective activities on Wistar rats using a carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic injury model. Results: The leaf and flowering top extract showed potent antioxidant activity and also possessed highest total phenolic and flavonoid content. The antioxidant activity and the total phenolic and flavonoid content present in these extracts showed a good correlation. The leaf and flowering top extracts at 200 mg/kg restored aspartate amino transferase (ASAT), alanine amino transferase (ALAT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin and protein levels significantly in CCl₄-intoxicated rats. The tested extracts also showed a significant (p < 0.001) reduction in 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) levels with an increase in SOD and CAT levels. The histopathology of liver did not show any toxicity after the treatment with the extracts. The active extracts were standardized using two marker compounds, hyperoside and rutin, which were isolated from the plant by HPLC. HPLC studies revealed that the maximum concentration of hyperoside and rutin is present in the flowering top extract.

Anti-hepatitis B virus activity of Boehmeria nivea leaf extracts in human HepG2.2.15 cells

Boehmeria nivea (Linn.) Gaudich of the Urticaceae family is a perennial ratoon herbal plant, the root of which is used in traditional Chinese medicine and possesses a variety of pharmacological properties. The 20% ethanol Boehmeria nivea root extract was shown to exert an anti-hepatitis B virus (HBV) effect in vitro and in vivo; however, whether the Boehmeria nivea leaf (BNL) extract possesses similar properties has not been determined. In this study, we aimed to investigate the anti-HBV effects of the BNL extract in HepG2.2.15 cells transfected with human HBV DNA. Our results demonstrated that the secretion of HBsAg and HBeAg was reduced in HepG2.2.15 cells treated with the BNL extract, without any recorded cytotoxic effects. In addition, the chloroform fraction (CF) and ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) of BNL were shown to be more potent compared to the other fractions: CF (100 mg/l) inhibited the secretion of HBsAg by 94.00±1.78% [inhibitory concentration 50 (IC₅₀) = 20.92 mg/l] and that of HBeAg by 100.19±0.35% (IC₅₀=19.67 mg/l) after 9 days of treatment. Similarly, EAF (200 mg/l) inhibited the secretion of HBsAg by 89.95±2.26% (IC₅₀=39.90 mg/l) and that of HBeAg by 98.90±1.42% (IC₅₀=36.45 mg/l). Furthermore, we observed that the content of HBV DNA in the medium secreted by the HepG2.2.15 cells was significantly decreased under CF (100 mg/l) or EAF (200 mg/l) treatment. Thus, we concluded that the BNL extracts exhibited anti-HBV activity, with CF and EAF being the most potent among the fractions.

Boehmeria nivea attenuates LPS-induced inflammatory markers by inhibiting p38 and JNK phosphorylations in RAW264.7 macrophages

CONTEXT

Boehmeria nivea (Linn.) Gaudich (Urticaceae), a natural herb, has a long history of treating several diseases including wound healing. However, the anti-inflammatory effect of B. nivea has not been investigated.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated whether the 70% ethanol extract of B. nivea (Ebn) can exert anti-inflammatory activity. Several phenolic compounds of extracts were determined to provide further information on the correlation between anti-inflammatory effects and phenolic compounds.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We prepared a 70% ethanol extract of B. nivea leaves and evaluated its anti-inflammatory activity (200, 400, 800, 1200 µg/mL) by measuring the secretions of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 6 (IL-6), which were stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in RAW264.7 macrophages. The total phenolic compounds were determined by the Folin-Ciocalteu method and major compounds were determined by HPLC.

RESULTS

Ebn was able to abolish the LPS-induced secretions of NO, TNF-α and IL-6. It also decreased the protein levels (IC₅₀ = 186 µg/mL) of LPS-induced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). The LPS stimulated p38, JNK and ERK phosphorylations significantly more than the controls. Surprisingly, although Ebn reduced p38 and JNK phosphorylations, it did not influence ERK phosphorylation. We found that Ebn revealed several major compounds such as chlorogenic acid (1.96 mg/100 g), rutin (46.48 mg/100 g), luteolin-7-glucoside (11.29 mg/100 g), naringin (1.13 mg/100 g), hesperidin (23.69 mg/100 g) and tangeretin (1.59 mg/100 g).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Boehmeria nivea exerts an anti-inflammatory effect on macrophages by inhibiting p38 and JNK, suggesting that it may be used as a functional ingredient against inflammation.

Brassica nigra plays a remedy role in hepatic and renal damage

CONTEXT

Black mustard [Brassica nigra (L.) Koch] of the Brassicaceae (Cruciferae) family is commonly used as a spice and a cheap source of antimicrobial agents for bacterial infections.

OBJECTIVES

The present investigation was to demonstrate the protective effect of the methanol extract of B. nigra leaves against D-galactosamine (D-GalN)-induced hepatic and nephrotoxicity in Wistar rats.

METHODS

Activity of the methanol extract of B. nigra at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg b.wt. against D-GalN (500 mg/kg b.wt.) induced toxicity, with silymarin used as the standard. Histological damage, activities of serum marker enzyme, hematological changes, metabolites such as bilirubin, urea, uric acid, and creatinine levels, tissue thiobarbutric acid reactive substance, enzymic and non-enzymic antioxidants and inflammatory marker enzymes such as myeloperoxidase, cathepsin D, and acid phosphatase were assessed.

RESULTS

The D-GalN-induced toxicity was evident from a significant increase (p < 0.001) in the serum and tissue inflammatory markers in toxic rats, when compared with the control (saline alone treated animals). The B. nigra pretreated groups (200 and 400 mg/kg b.wt.) showed significant (p < 0.001) reduction in the D-GalN-induced toxicity as obvious from biochemical parameters. Histopathological observations confirm the protective effect of B. nigra leaf extract by reduction in hepatic and renal tissue damage. Experimentals extract showed a similar effect as the standard.

CONCLUSIONS

The crude methanol extract of B. nigra leaf lacks inherent toxicity and exhibits hepatic and nephroprotective effects against D-GalN-induced toxicity in Wistar rats.

Antioxidant activity ofcurculigo orchioides in carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatopathy in rats

In this study antioxidant activity of methanol extract of rhizomes ofCurculigo orchioides (MEC) was investigated using carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4))-intoxicated rat liver as the experimental model. The hepatotoxic rats were administered MEC for 90 days (daily, orally at the dose of 70 mg per kg body weight). Lipid peroxidation (LPO) in CCl(4)-intoxicated rats was evidenced by a marked increment in the levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and diene conjugates (CD), and also a distinct diminution in glutathione (GSH) content in the liver. In CCl(4)+MEC-treated rats these biochemical parameters attained an almost normal level. The decreased activity of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and glutathione reductase (GRD) in CCl(4)-intoxicated rats, and its retrieval towards near normalcy in CCl(4)+MEC-administered rats revealed the efficacy of MEC in combating oxidative stress due to hepatic damage. Elevated level of glutathione transferase(GTS) observed in hepatotoxic rats too showed signs of retuming towards normalcy in MEC co-administered animals, thus corroborating the antioxidant efficacy of MEC. The findings provide a rationale for further studies on isolation of active principles and its pharmacological evaluation.

The effects of Boehmeria nivea (L.) Gaud. on embryonic development: in vivo and in vitro studies

AIM OF THE STUDY

Boehmeria nivea (L.) Gaud. was commonly used to treat miscarriages clinically. The aim of this study was to examine its safety for embryonic development.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Pregnant mice were randomly assigned into 5 groups, i.e. mice were oral-treated with distilled water (G1), with Boehmeria nivea extract of 2, 8 or 32 g/kg/day (G2, G3 or G4), and with 3 doses of vitamin A of 200,000 IU/kg as positive controls (G5). Meanwhile, IC(50) values for both embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and 3T3 cells were detected by cytotoxicity assays.

RESULTS

(1) The resorptions and malformed fetuses in G5 were significantly higher than G1 (P<0.001), whereas the maternal body-weight and uterus-weight were lower than G1 (P<0.05); (2) there was no difference in the fetal body-weight, maternal relative body-weight gain, liver-, kidney- or heart-weight, relative organ-weight, and histological examination among five groups; (3) there was no difference in IC(50) values between ESCs and 3T3 cells, but high concentration of Boehmeria nivea extract might significantly lower ESCs' viability (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Boehmeria nivea extract at 32 g/kg/day did not cause significant embryotoxicity or maternal toxicity in mice, although it might cause cytotoxicity in cultured ESCs at a high dose.

Antioxidant and protective effect of ethyl acetate extract of podophyllum hexandrum rhizome on carbon tetrachloride induced rat liver injury

The antioxidant and hepatoprotective activities of ethyl acetate extract was carefully investigated by the methods of DPPH radical scavenging activity, Hydroxyl radical scavenging activity, Superoxide radical scavenging activity, Hydrogen peroxide radical scavenging activity and its Reducing power ability. All these in vitro antioxidant activities were concentration dependent which were compared with standard antioxidants such as BHT, α-tocopherol. The hepatoprotective potential of Podophyllum hexandrum extract was also evaluated in male Wistar rats against carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4))-induced liver damage. Pre-treated rats were given ethyl acetate extract at 20, 30 and 50 mg/kg dose prior to CCl(4) administration (1 ml/kg, 1:1 in olive oil). Rats pre-treated with Podophyllum hexandrum extract remarkably prevented the elevation of serum AST, ALT, LDH and liver lipid peroxides in CCl(4)-treated rats. Hepatic glutathione levels were significantly increased by the treatment with the extract in all the experimental groups. The extract at the tested doses also restored the levels of liver homogenate enzymes (glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione-S- transferase) significantly. This study suggests that ethyl acetate extract of P. hexandrum has a liver protective effect against CCl(4)-induced hepatotoxicity and possess in vitro antioxidant activities.

Development and validation of molecular markers for characterization of Boehmeria nivea var. nivea and Boehmeria nivea var. tenacissima

BACKGROUND

The root of Boehmeria spp (ramie) is a hepatoprotective Chinese herbal medicine. Medicinal properties vary between Boehmeria nivea var. nivea and Boehmeria nivea var. tenacissima, which are local species found in Taiwan. As commercial preparations may use either species, there is a need for a rapid and simple assay to identify variants for quality control.

METHODS

Four methods were developed and tested for their applicability in differentiating the two species. These methods were random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD); sequence characterized amplified regions (SCAR); single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) and cleaved amplified polymorphic sequences (CAPS).

RESULTS

Three RAPD markers were developed that produced unique bands in B. nivea var. tenacissima and B. nivea var. nivea. Based on sequenced RAPD bands, one SCAR marker was developed that produced a single DNA band in B. nivea var. nivea. Two SNP markers differentiated between B. nivea var. nivea and B. nivea var. tenacissima based on single nucleotide substitutions. A pair of CAPS oligonucleotides was developed by amplifying a 0.55-kb DNA fragment that exhibited species-specific digestion patterns with restriction enzymes Alf III and Nde I. Consistent results were obtained with all the four markers on all tested Boehmeria lines.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrates the use of the RAPD, SCAR, SNP and CAPS markers for rapid identification of two closely related Boehmeria species.

In-vitro and in-vivo antioxidant activity of different extracts of the leaves of Clerodendron colebrookianum Walp in the rat

The in-vitro antioxidant activities of different concentrations of the water, alcoholic, petroleum ether and ethyl acetate extracts of the dried leaves of Clerodendron colebrookianum Walp, and in-vivo antioxidant activity of the water extract was studied in experimental rat models. The results obtained from in-vitro lipid peroxidation induced by FeSO4-ascorbate in rat liver homogenate showed a significant inhibition of lipid peroxidation by different extracts of C. colebrookianum leaf. Water extracts at concentrations (w/v) of 1:30, 1:50, 1:200 and 1:1000 showed the strongest inhibitory activity over the other organic extracts, suggesting maximum antioxidant effect. Chronic feeding of the water extract to Wistar albino rats (both sexes, 150–200g) in 1 or 2g kg−1/day doses for 14 days significantly increased the ferric reducing ability of plasma by 19% and 40% on the seventh day, and by 45% and 57% on the fourteenth day of treatment, respectively. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), as a marker of lipid peroxidation, and some cellular antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, catalase and reduced glutathione) were estimated in heart, liver and kidney. There was a significant reduction in hepatic and renal TBARS with both the doses, without any change in myocardial TBARS. There was no change in the level of antioxidants in heart, liver and kidney, except for the hepatic superoxide dismutase. The findings of this study showed that the leaf extract of C. colebrookianum increased the antioxidant capacity of blood and had an inhibitory effect on the basal level of lipid peroxidation of liver and kidney. This lends scientific support to the therapeutic use of the plant leaves, as claimed by the tribal medicine of North-East India.

Free radical scavenging and hepatoprotective actions ofQuercus alienaacorn extract against CCl4-induced liver

In the present study, we investigated the protective effect of Quercus aliena acorn extracts against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in rats, and the mechanism underlying the protective effects. Aqueous extracts of Quercus aliena acorn had higher superoxide radical scavenging activity than other types of extracts. The Quercus aliena acorn extracts displayed dose-dependent superoxide radical scavenging activity (IC50 = 4.92 microg/ml), as assayed by the electron spin resonance (ESR) spin-trapping technique. Pretreatment with Quercus aliena acorn extracts reduced the increase in serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels. The hepatoprotective action was confirmed by histological observation. The aqueous extracts reversed CCl4-induced liver injury and had an antioxidant action in assays of FeCl2- ascorbic acid induced lipid peroxidation in rats. Expression of cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) mRNA, as measured by RT-PCR, was significantly decreased in the livers of Quercus aliena acorn-pretreated rats compared with the livers of the control group. These results suggest that the hepatoprotective effects of Quercus aliena acorn extract are related to its antioxidative activity and effect on the expression of CYP2E1.

Hepatoprotective potential of Fumaria indica Pugsley whole plant extracts, fractions and an isolated alkaloid protopine

The present investigation demonstrates the hepatoprotective potential of 50% ethanolic water extract of whole plant of Fumaria indica and its three fractions viz., hexane, chloroform and butanol against d-galactosamine induced hepatotoxicity in rats. The hepatoprotection was assessed in terms reduction in histological damage, changes in serum enzymes (SGOT, SGPT, ALP) and metabolites bilirubin, reduced glutathione (GSH) and lipid peroxidation (MDA content). Among fractions more than 90% protection was found with butanol fraction in which alkaloid protopine was quantified as highest i.e. about 0.2mg/g by HPTLC. The isolated protopine in doses of 10-20mg p.o. also proved equally effective hepatoprotectants as standard drug silymarine (single dose 25mg p.o.). In general all treatments excluding hexane fraction proved hepatoprotective at par with silymarine (p<or=0.01).

Hepatoprotective activity of Sapindus mukorossi and Rheum emodi extracts: In vitro and in vivo studies

AIM: To study the hepatoprotective capacity of Sapindus mukorossi (S. mukorossi) and Rheum emodi (R. emodi) extracts in CCl₄ treated male rats.

METHODS: The dried powder of S. mukorossi and R. emodi was extracted successively with petroleum ether, benzene, chloroform, and ethanol and concentrated in vacuum. Primary rat hepatocyte monolayer cultures were used for in vitro studies. In vivo, the hepatoprotective capacity of the extract of the fruit pericarp of S. mukorossi and the rhizomes of R. emodi was analyzed in liver injured CCl₄-treated male rats.

RESULTS: In vitro: primary hepatocytes monolayer cultures were treated with CCl₄ and extracts of S. mukorossi & R. emodi. A protective activity could be demonstrated in the CCl₄ damaged primary monolayer culture. In vivo: extracts of the fruit pericarp of S. mukorossi (2.5 mg/mL) and rhizomes of R. emodi (3.0 mg/mL) were found to have protective properties in rats with CCl₄ induced liver damage as judged from serum marker enzyme activities.

CONCLUSION: The extracts of S. mukorossi and R. emodi do have a protective capacity both in vitro on primary hepatocytes cultures and in in vivo in a rat model of CCl₄ mediated liver injury.

Quercetin prevents oxidative stress in cirrhotic rats

Our aim was to study the protective effect of quercitin on liver cirrhosis induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4)) in rats and its relationship with liver morphology. Thirty male Wistar rats weighing 200-250 g were randomly divided into three groups: control, CCl(4), and CCl(4)+ quercetin. Rats in the experimental groups were given CCl(4) (0.5 ml/kg i.p.), diluted 1:6 in vegetable oil (5 mmol/kg body wt), at 10:00 p.m. every 4 days for 17 weeks. Quercetin (500 microl/kg i.p.; 150 micromol/kg body wt) or vehicle was administered at 6:00 p.m. for the last 3 weeks of the study. Control group rats were given only olive oil for the same period. At the end of the 17 weeks, all rats were sacrificed. Blood samples were taken for determination of serum indicators (ALT, AST, total bilirubin, conjugated bilirubin, factor V) and the livers were dissected out and divided into two parts: one was homogenized and the supernatant was used for measurement of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities, as well as lipid peroxidation. The other part was used for the histopathological study. CCl(4) caused a marked rise in serum levels of ALT, AST, total bilirubin, and conjugated bilirubin, as well as a decrease in factor V (P<0.05). Lipid peroxidation levels were significantly increased, whereas GSH, SOD, catalase, GPx, and GST levels were decreased in the liver of CCl(4)-treated rats. Quercetin (50 mg/kg/day) successfully attenuated these effects of CCl(4). We conclude that quercetin has beneficial effects on liver fibrosis in rats by enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity and decreasing the pro-oxidant effect.

Duration-dependent hepatoprotective effects of propolis extract against carbon tetrachloride-induced acute liver damage in rats

Propolis is a natural product produced by bees that was discovered through the study of traditional cures and knowledge of indigenous people throughout the world. It is rich in vitamins A, B, C, and E, and in amino acids, copper, iron, manganese, and zinc. The investigators studied the duration-dependent hepatoprotective effects of propolis extract (200 mg/kg, orally) against carbon tetrachloride (CCl 4; 1.5 mL/kg, intraperitoneally)-induced liver damage in rats. Administration of CCl 4 caused a sharp elevation in the activity of serum transaminases and serum alkaline phosphatase. A significant depletion in hepatically reduced glutathione was observed with significantly enhanced hepatic lipid peroxidation. After CCl 4 administration, glycogen contents and activities of alkaline phosphatase, adenosine triphosphatase, and succinic dehydrogenase were significantly decreased, whereas total protein contents and activity of acid phosphatase were increased in the liver and kidney. Propolis extract reversed alterations in all parameters when administered within 6, 12, and 24 h of toxicant exposure. Propolis therapy produced duration-dependent protection, with maximal protection achieved at 24 h after CCl 4 exposure. It is believed that propolis in its natural form has general pharmacologic value and marked hepatoprotective potential because of its composition of minerals, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds.

Hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects of Cuscuta chinensis against acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

Tu-Si-Zi, the seeds of Cuscuta chinensis Lam. (Convolvulaceae), is a traditional Chinese medicine that is commonly used to nourish and improve the liver and kidney conditions in China and other Asian countries. As oxidative stress promotes the development of acetaminophen (APAP)-induced hepatotoxicity, the aim of the present study was to evaluate and compare the hepatoprotective effect and antioxidant activities of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of C chinensis on APAP-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. The C chinensis ethanolic extract at an oral dose of both 125 and 250mg/kg showed a significant hepatoprotective effect relatively to the same extent (P<0.05) by reducing levels of glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT), glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). In addition, the same ethanolic extract prevented the hepatotoxicity induced by APAP-intoxicated treatment as observed when assessing the liver histopathology. Regarding the antioxidant activity, C chinensis ethanolic extract exhibited a significant effect (P<0.05) by increasing levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and by reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. In contrast, the same doses of the aqueous extract of C chinensis did not present any hepatoprotective effect as seen in the ethanolic extract, and resulted in further liver deterioration. In conclusion, these data suggest that the ethanolic extract of Cuscuta chinensis can prevent hepatic injuries from APAP-induced hepatotoxicity in rats and this is likely mediated through its antioxidant activities.

Identification and properties of 2,5-Dihydroxy-4,3′-di(β-d-glucopyranosyloxy)-trans-stilbene fromMorus bombycis Koidzumi roots

2,5-Dihydroxy-4,3'-di(beta-d-glucopyranosyloxy)-trans-stilbene was identified from Morus bombycis Koidzumi roots. The 2,5-dihydroxy-4,3'-di(beta-D-glucopyranosyloxy)-trans-stilbene at a dose of 400-600 mg/kg had hepatoprotective activity comparable to the standard agent, silymarin. The biochemical assays were confirmed by histological observations showing that the 2,5-dihydroxy-4,3'-di(beta-d-glucopyranosyloxy)-trans-stilbene from Morus bombycis Koidzumi roots decreased cell ballooning in response to CCl4 treatment. These results demonstrate that the 2,5-dihydroxy-4,3'-di(beta-d-glucopyranosyloxy)-trans-stilbene component has a liver protective action against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity.

Supercritical carbon dioxide extract exhibits enhanced antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of Physalis peruviana

Physalis peruviana L. (PP) is a medicinal herb widely used in folk medicine. In this study, supercritical carbon dioxide (SFE-CO2) method was employed to obtain three different PP extracts, namely SCEPP-0, SCEPP-4 and SCEPP-5. The total flavonoid and phenol concentrations, as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of these extracts were analyzed and compared with aqueous and ethanolic PP extracts. Among all the extracts tested, SCEPP-5 demonstrated the highest total flavonoid (234.63+/-9.61 mg/g) and phenol (90.80+/-2.21 mg/g) contents. At concentrations 0.1-30 microg/ml, SCEPP-5 also demonstrated the strongest superoxide anion scavenging activity and xanthine oxidase inhibitory effect. At 30 microg/ml, SCEPP-5 significantly prevented lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 1 microg/ml)-induced cell cytotoxicity in murine macrophage (Raw 264.7) cells. At 10-50 microg/ml, it also significantly inhibited LPS-induced NO release and PGE2 formation in a dose-dependent pattern. SCEPP-5 at 30 microg/ml remarkably blocked the LPS induction of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression. Taken together, these results suggest that SCEPP-5, an extract of SFE-CO2, displayed the strongest antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities as compared to other extracts. Its protection against LPS-induced inflammation could be through the inhibition of iNOS and COX-2 expression.

Inhibition of hepatitis B virus production by Boehmeria nivea root extract in HepG2 2.2.15 cells

AIM: To explore the anti-hepatitis B virus (HBV) effects of Boehmeria nivea (B. nivea) root extract (BNE) by using the HepG2 2.2.15 cell model system.

METHODS: Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B virus e antigen (HBeAg), and HBV DNA were measured by using ELISA and real-time PCR, respectively. Viral DNA replication and RNA expression were determined by using Southern and Northern blot, respectively.

RESULTS: In HepG2 2.2.15 cells, HBeAg (60%, P < 0.01) and particle-associated HBV DNA (> 99%, P < 0.01) secretion into supernatant were significantly inhibited by BNE at a dose of 100 mg/L, whereas the HBsAg was not inhibited. With different doses of BNE, the reduced HBeAg was correlated with the inhibition of HBV DNA. The anti-HBV effect of BNE was not caused by its cytotoxicity to cells or inhibition of viral DNA replication and RNA expression.

CONCLUSION: BNE could effectively reduce the HBV production and its anti-HBV machinery might differ from the nucleoside analogues.

Antioxidative effects of pumpkin seed ( Cucurbita pepo ) protein isolate in CCl4‐Induced liver injury in low‐protein fed rats

The effects of pumpkin seed (Cucurbita pepo) protein isolate on the plasma activity levels of catalase (CA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSHpx) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) as well as glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase) in liver homogenates and lipid peroxidation (LPO-malondialdehyde-MDA) levels in liver homogenates and liver microsomal fractions against carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4))-induced acute liver injury in low-protein fed Sprague-Dawley rats (Rattus norvegicus) were investigated. A group of male Sprague-Dawley rats maintained on a low-protein diet for 5 days were divided into three subgroups. Two subgroups were injected with carbon tetrachloride and the other group with an equivalent amount of olive oil. Two hours after CCl(4) intoxication one of the two subgroups was administered with pumpkin seed protein isolate and thereafter switched onto a 20% pumpkin seed protein isolate diet. The other two groups of rats were maintained on the low-protein diet for the duration of the investigation. Groups of rats from the different subgroups were killed at 24, 48 and 72 h after their respective treatments. After 5 days on the low-protein diet the activity levels of all the enzymes as well as antioxidant levels were significantly lower than their counterparts on a normal balanced diet. However, a low-protein diet resulted in significantly increased levels of lipid peroxidation. The CCl(4) intoxicated rats responded in a similar way, regarding all the variables investigated, to their counterparts on a low-protein diet. The administration of pumpkin seed protein isolate after CCl(4) intoxication resulted in significantly increased levels of all the variables investigated, with the exception of the lipid peroxidation levels which were significantly decreased. From the results of the present study it is concluded that pumpkin seed protein isolate administration was effective in alleviating the detrimental effects associated with protein malnutrition and CCl(4) intoxication. It is therefore apparent that pumpkin seed protein isolate has components that have antiperoxidative properties.

Studies on hepatoprotective and antioxidant actions of Strychnos potatorum Linn. seeds on CCl4-induced acute hepatic injury in experimental rats

Strychnos potatorum Linn. seeds are used in the Indian traditional system of medicine for the treatment of hepatopathy, nephropathy, gonorrhoea, leucorrhoea, gastropathy, bronchitis, chronic diarrhoea, strangury, renal and vesicle calculi, diabetes and eye diseases. The present study describes the hepatoprotective and antioxidant activities of the seed powder (SPP) and aqueous extract (SPE) of Strychnos potatorum seeds against CCl4-induced acute hepatic injury. Hepatic injury was achieved by injecting 3 ml/kg, s.c. of CCl4 in equal proportion with olive oil. Both SPP and SPE at the doses 100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o. offered significant (p < 0.001) hepatoprotective action by reducing the serum marker enzymes like serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT) and serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT). They also reduced the elevated levels of ALP and serum bilirubin. Reduced enzymic and nonenzymic antioxidant levels and elevated lipid peroxide levels were restored to normal by administration of SPP and SPE. Histopathological studies further confirmed the hepatoprotective activity of SPP and SPE when compared with the CCl4 treated control groups. The results obtained were compared with Silymarin (50 mg/kg, p.o.), the standard drug. In conclusion, SPE (200 mg/kg, p.o.) showed significant hepatoprotective activity similar to that of the standard drug, Silymarin (50 mg/kg, p.o.).

Antioxidant activities of Physalis peruviana

Physalis peruviana (PP) is a widely used medicinal herb for treating cancer, malaria, asthma, hepatitis, dermatitis and rheumatism. In this study, the hot water extract (HWEPP) and extracts prepared from different concentrations of ethanol (20, 40, 60, 80 and 95% EtOH) from the whole plant were evaluated for antioxidant activities. Results displayed that at 100 mug/ml, the extract prepared from 95% EtOH exhibited the most potent inhibition rate (82.3%) on FeCl2-ascorbic acid induced lipid peroxidation in rat liver homogenate. At concentrations 10-100 microg/ml, this extract also demonstrated the strongest superoxide anion scavenging and inhibitory effect on xanthine oxidase activities. In general, the ethanol extracts revealed a stronger antioxidant activity than alpha-tocopherol and HWEPP. Compared to alpha-tocopherol, the IC50 value of 95% EtOH PP extract was lower in thiobarbituric acid test (IC50=23.74 microg/ml vs. 26.71 microg/ml), in cytochrome c test (IC50=10.40 microg/ml vs. 13.39 microg/ml) and in xanthine oxidase inhibition test (IC50=8.97 microg/ml vs. 20.68 microg/ml). The present study concludes that ethanol extracts of PP possess good antioxidant activities, and the highest antioxidant properties were obtained from the 95% EtOH PP.

Hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects of Morus bombycis Koidzumi on CCl4-induced liver damage

The antioxidant activity and liver protective effect of Morus bombycis Koidzumi were investigated. Aqueous extracts of M. bombycis Koidzumi had higher superoxide radical scavenging activity than other types of extracts. The aqueous extract at a dose of 100 mg/kg showed significant hepatoprotective activity when compared with that of a standard agent. The biochemical results were confirmed by histological observations indicating that M. bombycis Koidzumi extract together with CCl(4) treatment decreased ballooning degeneration. The water extract recovered the CCl(4)-induced liver injury and showed antioxidant effects in assays of FeCl(2)-ascorbic acid-induced lipid peroxidation in rats. Based on these results, we suggest that the hepatoprotective effect of the M. bombycis Koidzumi extract is related to its antioxidative activity.

Effect of pumpkin seed (Cucurbita pepo) protein isolate on the activity levels of certain plasma enzymes in CCl4-induced liver injury in low-protein fed rats

The effects of pumpkin seed (Cucurbita pepo) protein isolate on the activity levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LD), alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced acute liver injury in low-protein fed rats were investigated. A group of male Sprague-Dawley rats maintained on a low-protein diet for 5 days were divided into three subgroups. Two subgroups were injected with carbon tetrachloride and the other group with an equivalent amount of olive oil. Two hours after CCl4 intoxication one of the two subgroups was administered with pumpkin seed protein isolate. All three subgroups of rats were maintained on the low-protein diet for the duration of the investigation. Groups of rats from the different subgroups were killed at 24, 48 and 72 h after their respective treatments. After 5 days on the low-protein diet the activity levels of all four enzymes were significantly higher than their counterparts on a normal balanced diet. CCl4 intoxication resulted in significant increases in the activity levels of all four enzymes investigated. The administration of pumpkin seed protein isolate after CCl4 intoxication resulted in significantly reduced activity levels of all four enzymes. It is concluded that pumpkin seed protein isolate administration was effective in alleviating the detrimental effects associated with protein malnutrition.

Evaluation of hepatoprotective effects of Helminthostachys zeylanica (L.) Hook against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage in Wistar rats

The rhizomes of Helminthostachys zeylanica (L.) are used by the Kattunaikan tribe of Kerala, for the treatment of various hepatic disorders. In the present study, the effect of the methanolic extract of Helminthostachys zeylanica rhizomes on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver damage in Wistar rats was studied. The results showed that significant hepatoprotective effect was obtained against CCl4-induced liver damage, by oral administration of Helminthostachys zeylanica methanolic extract as evident from decreased levels of serum enzymes and an almost normal architecture of the liver, in the treated groups, compared to the controls. The extract was effective in increasing the choleretic activity of anaesthetised normal rats. It also shortened hexobarbitone-induced sleeping time in mice, which was increased by CCl4 treatment, besides showing significant antilipid peroxidant effect in vitro. Thus, the present study provides a scientific rationale for the traditional use of this plant in the management of liver diseases.

Antioxidant activity of Cinnamomum cassia

The antioxidant activities of hot water extracts (HWECC) and ethanol extracts (EECC) from the dry bark of Cinnamomum cassia Presl were evaluated in this study. Results showed that at 1.0 mg/mL, the ethanol extracts of C. cassia (96.30%) exhibited a greater inhibition than the alpha-tocopherol (93.74%) on FeCl(2)-ascorbic acid induced lipid peroxidation of rat liver homogenate in vitro. From 0.05 to 1.0 mg/mL, the EECC demonstrated the highest superoxide anions scavenging activity and the strongest anti-superoxide formation activity (p < 0.05). The same extract also showed an excellent antioxidant activity in enzymatic and nonenzymatic liver tissue oxidative systems. EECC revealed the strongest antioxidant activity followed by alpha-tocopherol and HWECC. Compared to alpha-tocopherol, the IC(50) values of EECC were found to be lower in thiobarbituric acid test (IC(50) = 0.24 mg/mL vs 0.37 mg/mL), in cytochrome c test (IC(50) = 0.16 mg/mL vs 0.27 mg/mL) and in xanthine oxidase inhibition test (IC(50) = 0.09 mg/mL vs 0.19 mg/mL). The present study concludes that EECC could be used as a good source of antioxidant in the dietary supplement.

Optimization of the dose and route of injection, and characterisation of the time course of carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in the rat

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to optimize carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in the rat with respect to dose, route of injection, and time course.

METHODS

Male Wistar albino rats, 4 to 6 weeks old and weighing 130-180 g were used. Hepatotoxicity was evaluated by measuring the activity of serum enzymes (alkaline phosphatase [ALP], alanine aminotransferase [ALT], and aspartate aminotransferase [AST]) as well as serum total bilirubin level.

RESULTS

Intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4)) increased the activity of ALP (from 64.9 to 137.3 U/l), ALT (from 106.6 to 693.1 U/l), and AST (from 113.8 to 693.9 U/l). Plasma bilirubin level increased (from 0.119 to 0.42 mg/dl). In contrast, subcutaneous injection of CCl(4) had no effect on these variables. The optimum intraperitoneal dose of CCl(4) was found to be 2 ml/kg body weight (dissolved in an equal volume of olive oil), and this increased the level of bilirubin and the activity of the three enzymes significantly, without causing death of the animals. Hepatotoxicity was observed within 2 h of intraperitoneal injection of CCl(4) and reached a peak after 24 h. Bilirubin level and serum enzyme activities declined gradually to normal levels by 3 days after CCl(4) injection.

CONCLUSION

It is possible to reliably evoke reversible hepatotoxicity in rats by intraperitoneal injection of 2 ml/kg CCl(4).

Antioxidant properties of Asparagus racemosus against damage induced by gamma-radiation in rat liver mitochondria

The possible antioxidant effects of crude extract and a purified aqueous fraction of Asparagus racemosus against membrane damage induced by the free radicals generated during gamma-radiation were examined in rat liver mitochondria. gamma-Radiation, in the dose range of 75-900 Gy, induced lipid peroxidation as assessed by the formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and lipid hydroperoxides (LOOH). Using an effective dose of 450 Gy, antioxidant effects of A. racemosus extract were studied against oxidative damage in terms of protection against lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, depletion of protein thiols and the levels of the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase. An active fraction consisting of polysaccharides (termed as P3) was effective even at a low concentration of 10 microg/ml. Both the crude extract as well as the P3 fraction significantly inhibited lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation. The antioxidant effect of P3 fraction was more pronounced against lipid peroxidation, as assessed by TBARS formation, while that of the crude extract was more effective in inhibiting protein oxidation. Both the crude extract and P3 fraction also partly protects against radiation-induced loss of protein thiols and inactivation of superoxide dismutase. The inhibitory effects of these active principles, at the concentration of 10 microg/ml, are comparable to that of the established antioxidants glutathione and ascorbic acid. Hence our results indicate that extracts from A. racemosus have potent antioxidant properties in vitro in mitochondrial membranes of rat liver.