Antioxidant Activity and Total Phenolic and Flavonoid Contents of Hieracium pilosella L. Extracts

UPLC-qTOF-MS phytochemical profile of Commiphora gileadensis leaf extract via integrated ultrasonic-microwave-assisted technique and synthesis of silver nanoparticles for enhanced antibacterial properties

The utilization of metallic nanoparticles in bio-nanofabrication holds significant potential in the field of applied research. The current study applied and compared integrated ultrasonic-microwave-assisted extraction (US/MICE), ultrasonic extraction (USE), microwave-assisted extraction (MICE), and maceration (MAE) to extract total phenolic content (TPC). In addition, the study examined the antioxidant activity of Commiphora gileadensis (Cg) leaf. The results demonstrated that the TPC of US/MICE exhibited the maximum value at 59.34 ± 0.007 mg GAE/g DM. Furthermore, at a concentration of 10 μg/mL, TPC displayed a significant scavenging effect on DPPH (56.69 %), with an EC50 (6.48 μg/mL). Comprehensive metabolite profiling of the extract using UPLC-qTOF-MS/MS was performed to identify active agents. A total of 64 chromatographic peaks were found, out of which 60 were annotated. The most prevalent classes of metabolites found were polyphenols (including flavonoids and lignans), organic compounds and their derivatives, amides and amines, terpenes, and fatty acid derivatives. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed the aggregate size of the synthesized nanoparticles and the spherical shape of C. gileadensis-mediated silver nanoparticles (Cg-AgNPs). The nanoparticles had a particle size ranging from 7.7 to 42.9 nm. The Cg-AgNPs exhibited more inhibition zones against S. aureus and E. coli. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of Cg-extract, AgNPs, and Cg-AgNPs were also tested. This study demonstrated the feasibility of using combined ultrasonic-microwave-assisted extraction to separate and extract chemicals from C. gileadensis on a large scale. These compounds have potential use in the pharmaceutical industry. Combining antibacterial and biocompatible properties in materials is vital for designing new materials for biomedical applications. Additionally, the results showed that the biocompatibility of the Ag-NPs using C. gileadensis extracts demonstrated outstanding antibacterial properties.

Multi-omics analysis provides insights intro lysine accumulation in quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) sprouts

Lysine, the first limiting essential amino acid, the deficiency of which seriously affects the health of human and animals. In this study, quinoa germination significantly increased the nutrients, especially lysine content. To better understanding the underlying molecular mechanism of lysine biosynthesis, isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ)-based proteomics, RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) technology and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) platform-based phytohormones analyses were conducted. Through proteome analyses, a total of 11,406 differentially expressed proteins were identified, which were mainly related to secondary metabolites. The lysine-rich storage globulins and endogenous phytohormones probably contributed the increased lysine content in quinoa during germination. Furthermore, aspartic acid semialdehyde dehydrogenase is essential for lysine synthesis in addition to aspartate kinase and dihydropyridine dicarboxylic acid synthase. Protein-protein interaction analysis indicated lysine biosynthesis is associated with "amino metabolism" and "starch and sucrose metabolism". Above all, our study screens the candidate genes participated in lysine accumulation and explores the factors affected lysine biosynthesis by multi-omics analysis. These information not only paves a foundation for breeding lysine-rich quinoa sprouts but also provides valuable multi-omics resource to explore the characteristic of nutrients during quinoa germination.

Antimicrobial, antioxidant activities, and total phenolic contents of Pycnanthus angolensis Sap and Cryptolepis sanguinolenta root extracts

The death of many people in tropical countries can be attributed to microbial infection, probably, because synthetic antibiotics are failing in the treatment of most microbial infections, attributed to the ability of the microorganisms to mutate and adapt to harsh conditions. This study evaluated, in vitro, the antimicrobial activities, antioxidant potentials, and the total phenolic as well as phytochemical contents of aqueous and ethanol extracts of the root of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta (Lindl.) and the crude sap of Pycnanthus angolensis (Welw) using selected standard bacteria strains (Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25,923), Staphylococcus saprophyticus (ATCC 15,305), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25,922), Salmonella typhi (ATCC 19,430), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27,853), and Proteus mirabilis (ATCC 49,565). The modified agar well diffusion method was used to evaluate the antimicrobial activities of the plant extracts. Chloramphenicol and tetracycline were used as positive controls. The extracts were screened for specific phytochemicals with total phenolic contents were determined using Folin Ciocalteu reagent test. The phytoconstituents observed were alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, and saponins in both Cryptolepis sanguinolenta and Pycnanthus angolensis. For the antimicrobial activities, all the test bacteria were susceptible to the crude sap of Pycnanthus angolensis except Proteus mirabilis. In the case of the Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, only S. aureus was susceptible to both aqueous and ethanol extracts. The total phenolic content, expressed in g/100 g GAE, recorded values of 55.427 ± 4.248 for the crude sap of Pycnanthus angolensis, and 11.642 ± 4.248 and 26.888 ± 4.248 for the aqueous and ethanol extracts of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, respectively. It is concluded that Cryptolepis sanguinolenta and Pycnanthus angolensis are excellent candidates for further development of antimicrobial agents in the fight against microbial infections given the pressing need for novel efficacious agents.

Antibacterial and Phytochemical Screening of Artemisia Species

Taking into account the increasing number of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, actual research focused on plant extracts is vital. The aim of our study was to investigate leaf and stem ethanolic extracts of Artemisia absinthium L. and Artemisia annua L. in order to explore their antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Total phenolic content (TPC) was evaluated spectrophotometrically. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH and ABTS. The antibacterial activity of wormwood extracts was assessed by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) in Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella enteritidis cultures, and by zone of inhibition in Klebsiella carbapenem-resistant enterobacteriaceae (CRE) and Escherichia coli extended-spectrum β-lactamases cultures (ESBL). The Artemisia annua L. leaf extract (AnL) exhibited the highest TPC (518.09 mg/mL) and the highest expression of sinapic acid (285.69 ± 0.002 µg/mL). Nevertheless, the highest antioxidant capacity (1360.51 ± 0.04 µM Trolox/g DW by ABTS and 735.77 ± 0.02 µM Trolox/g DW by DPPH) was found in Artemisia absinthium L. leaf from the second year of vegetation (AbL2). AnL extract exhibited the lowest MIC and MBC for all tested bacteria and the maximal zone of inhibition for Klebsiella CRE and Escherichia coli ESBL. Our study revealed that AbL2 exhibited the best antioxidant potential, while AnL extract had the strongest antibacterial effect.

Pharmacognostic evaluation of Artemisia maritima L. a highly medicinal specie of genus Artemisia

The light and scanning electron microscopic observations were carried out for anatomical features of leaf, pollens and powder.Microscopic studies provide useful information for identification and authentication of adulteration in A. maritima. Nutritional analysis of A. maritima revealed that life fundamental macromolecules such as carbohydrates (49.63 %) crude proteins (13.17 %) and crude fibers (21.06 %) were present in sufficient quantity while crude fats (4.11 %) reported in low quantity. The life essential elements such as Mg (9.472 ± 0.011), Ca (4.152 ± 0.135) and Fe (4.112 ± 0.002) were found in high concentration while heavy metals reported under the safety threshold of WHO. These observations favored A. maritima an alternative of food.Appreciable quantity of phenolics (17.64 ± 0.574) and flavonoids (7.67 ± 0.069) were found while qualitatively active phytochemicals were reported.

The FTIR characterization of A. maritima crude powder revealed chromatogram in 3328.61 to 408.68 frequency range and 24 characteristic peaks on the basis of which different compounds of biological importance were classified. HPLC-UV technique quantifiedand identified six phenolic compounds morin,epigallocatechin gallate, catechin hydrate,ellagic acid, pyrogallol andrutin. Identification of compounds through GC–MS chromatogram revealed the presence of 46 compounds in methanolic fraction however 17 compounds of biological importance were selected.

In-vitro biological evaluation of A. maritima for antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic (12.61 ± 0.113 %) and cytotoxic activities (LC₅₀ = 20 μg/ml) suggested that methanolic fractions exhibited the highest activity as compared to chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions. The MIC values of 10 or 15 mg/ml were recorded for most of the fungal pathogens. Antibacterial activity revealed 3.75 mg/ml of MIC values against B. subtilis and 1.87 mg/ml against S. aureus, E. coli and P. aeruginosa. In-vivo biological evaluation revealed thatmaximum inhibition was observed for crude extract at 250 mg/kg body weight. The mechanism underlined in-vivo analgesic responses was carried out which revealed that naloxone (morphine and tramadol antagonist) showed no prominent effect while Glibenclamide pretreatment minutely modified the analgesic action. These observations clearly indicted the absence of opiod receptors and involvement of ATP sensitive potassium channels.

Ruthana date extract inhibited proliferation of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells by modulation of BAX gene

Cancer response to chemotherapeutic agents and its side effects remain a challenge for the development of new anticancer compounds. Dates are consumed worldwide due to their high nutritional value. We investigated the cytotoxicity and expression of the proapoptotic BAX gene in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells treated with Ruthana date ethanolic extract (RDE). The RDE ingredients analyzed by GC/MS and HepG2 cells were treated with different concentrations of RDE for 24, 48, and 72 h. Cytotoxicity, cell viability, DNA fragmentation, and BAX expression were determined. The GC/MS analysis of RDE showed its high content of quercetin, myricetin kaempferol, thymine, and catechol as the most active ingredients. HepG2 treated with RDE showed a significant change in morphological characteristics related to cell death. The antiproliferative activity determined by WST-1 demonstrated that RDE significantly reduced cell viability. Cells treated with RDE (10-60 mg) showed gradual DNA fragmentation in a dose-dependent manner. Gene expression analysis showed upregulation of BAX at 30 mg/ml of RDE (p < 0.001). However, it showed downregulation at (40-60 mg/ml) as compared to control. Our findings indicated that RDE exert cytotoxicity against HepG2 cells due to its high content of flavonoids. This effect through DNA fragmentation and activation of the proapoptotic BAX gene.

Antioxidant Properties and Aldehyde Reactivity of PD-L1 Targeted Aryl-Pyrazolone Anticancer Agents

Small molecules targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint are actively searched to complement the anticancer arsenal. Different molecular scaffolds have been reported, including phenyl-pyrazolone derivatives which potently inhibit binding of PD-L1 to PD-1. These molecules are structurally close to antioxidant drug edaravone (EDA) used to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. For this reason, we investigated the capacity of five PD-L1-binding phenyl-pyrazolone compounds (1–5) to scavenge the formation of oxygen free radicals using electron spin resonance spectroscopy with DPPH/DMPO probes. In addition, the reactivity of the compounds toward the oxidized base 5-formyluracil (5fU) was assessed using chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry and photodiode array detectors. The data revealed that the phenyl-pyrazolone derivatives display antioxidant properties and exhibit a variable reactivity toward 5fU. Compound 2 with a N-dichlorophenyl-pyrazolone moiety cumulates the three properties, being a potent PD-L1 binder, a robust antioxidant and an aldehyde-reactive compound. On the opposite, the adamantane derivative 5 is a potent PD-L1 binding with a reduced antioxidant potential and no aldehyde reactivity. The nature of the substituent on the phenyl-pyrazolone core modulates the antioxidant capacity and reactivity toward aromatic aldehydes. The molecular signature of the compound can be adapted at will, to confer additional properties to these PD-L1 binders.

Phenolic Profile and Antioxidant Capacity of Selected Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Diversity upon Plant Species and Extraction Technique

Phenolic content and antioxidant capacity (AC) was evaluated in extracts of bay, sage and thyme leaves, myrtle leaves and berries, and sea buckthorn berries obtained by conventional (CE) and advanced extraction techniques [ultrasound-assisted (UAE) and accelerated solvent extraction (ASE)] using 80% acetone (v/v) as extraction solvent. Extracts were analyzed for phenolic content using UPLC/ESI MS2 and AC by ORAC method. Results indicated the variations in the phenolic composition and concentrations among analyzed plant species and applied extraction methods. Flavonoids showed to be the predominant phenolic group represented by flavonols kaemferol-3-O-hexoside (182.58–321.45 mg 100−1 g dm) and quercetin-3-glucoside (253.05–315.67 mg/100 g dm) in bay leaves, by flavonol isorhamnetine-3-O-hexoside (27.76–45.16 mg/100 g dm) in sea buckthorn berries and by flavone luteolin-7-O-glucoside (470.27–781.78 mg/100 g dm) in sage leaves. Among the phenolic acids, hydroxybenzoic acids and their derivates were the predominant phenolic group in thyme leaves and myrtle. Statistical analysis showed that ASE contributed to the highest content of total flavonols, flavones, hydroxycinnamic and hydroxybenzoic acids as well as AC. CE was more efficient method for the extraction of total flavan-3-ols, while UAE showed the highest efficiency in extraction of total anthocyanins. Analyzed plant extracts proved to be a rich source of various phenolics and results indicated suitable extraction methods for target phenolic compounds characteristic for certain plant species.

Ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, and bioactivities of Hieracium L. and Pilosella Hill (Cichorieae, Asteraceae) species

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Species of the genera Hieracium and Pilosella have been used in folk medicine for centuries in many parts of the world. The most wiedly used species is P. officinarum Vaill., included in the British and French Pharmacopoeias and sold as part of different commercial products.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review critically appraises the state-of-art of ethnopharmacology, specialised metabolites, bioactivities, and toxicity of members of Hieracium and Pilosella. Thus, gaps in scientific knowledge can be identified, also focusing on the development of products with pharmacological applications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Literature data of Hieracium and Pilosella species were mainly retrieved using different electronic databases such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, SciFinder, and PubMed. Other electronic resources included worldwide databases on ethnobotany, ethnopharmacology, and phytochemistry as well as government reports. Additionally, ancient texts and local information such as PhD and MSc theses, and books were consulted.

RESULTS

A comprehensive analysis of the above mentioned sources revealed that only 34 out of the about 850 described species within the genera Hieracium and Pilosella have been reported in the context of traditional medicinal and ethnobotanical knowledge. The most often mentioned species is P. officinarum which has been widely used due to its diuretic effects. Other popular uses of Hieracium and Pilosella species include the treatment of skin, gastric, and intestinal diseases as well as respiratory and vascular ailments. Moreover, taxa of the two genera have been used as antiobiotics, antiseptics, antidiabetics, tonics, antiepileptics, antiphlogistics, emetics, wound healing drugs, astringents, haemostatics, and detoxificants. Finally, uses as a wild vegetable, fodder, plant for hunting and for charming rituals have also been mentioned. Phytochemical research revealed a richness in phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Moreover, coumarins, sesquiterpene lactones, terpenoids, and phytosterols were found in Hieracium and Pilosella. Experimental research conducted to support traditional uses mainly include in vitro tests, while assays based on in vivo models (including humans) are rather limited. Also, the vast majority of the studies did not identify the compounds responsible for the detected bioactivities. These established bioactivities include antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antimycotic, antiviral, cytotoxic and antiproliferative, diuretic, gastroprotective, antiepileptic, hypotensive, anti-obesity, arthropodicidal, and skin rejuvenating activities. Finally, limited toxicity studies have been conducted on members of Hieracium and Pilosella.

CONCLUSION

Taxa belonging to Hieracium and Pilosella have been confirmed to exert diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects, which is in line with their long traditional use. Moreover, the above mentioned fields of application hint to the most promising routes for the development of new marketable products. Nonetheless, additional data from an in-depth research on bio-active specialised metabolites such as sesquiterpenoids, sesquiterpene lactones, and coumarines, their bioactivities and toxicity, and their biosynthesis are still warranted.

Evaluation of pancreatic regeneration activity of Tephrosia purpurea leaves in rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes

Background and aim

Flavonoid rich plant Tephrosia purpurea (T. purpurea), commonly known as Sarpunkha has been used in traditional systems of medicine to treat diabetes mellitus. However, its effectiveness in promoting regeneration of pancreas in diabetes has not been investigated. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to evaluate pancreatic β-cells regeneration, antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic potentials of T. purpurea leaves extract, its fractions and main constituent Rutin in diabetic rats.

Experimental procedure

The leaves extract and its fractions were first screened for acute and sub-chronic antidiabetic activity in a dose range of 250–500 mg/kg orally. Further, fractions with potent antidiabetic activity were screened for pancreatic β-cells regeneration activity using histopathological studies and morphometric analysis, which was followed by estimation of biochemical parameters.

Results and conclusion

The most significant antidiabetic, pancreatic regeneration and antihyperlipidemic activity was exhibited by n-butanol soluble fraction of ethanol extract at the dose level of 500 mg/kg. Histopathology revealed that treatment with this fraction improved the β-cell granulation of islets and prevented the β-cells damage which was further confirmed by morphometric analysis. Thus, the present study validated the traditional use of T. purpurea plant in the treatment of diabetes, which might be attributed to pancreatic β-cells regeneration potential of its active constituent Rutin.

Taxonomy (classification by EVISE)

Traditional Medicine; Metabolic Disorder; Experimental Design; Cell Regeneration and Histopathology.

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Polyphenol rich extract possesses potent in vitro antioxidant activity.

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Extract and its fractions are having pancreatic regeneration potential in STZ induced diabetic model.

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Histopathological study of the pancreas extract and fraction treated diabetic rats showed islets expansion and decreased fatty infiltrate of the islets.

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Study validates the use of plant in treatment of diabetes.

Characterization of pharmacological properties of methanolic seed and stem bark extracts of Ziziphus mauritiana (BAU Kul) using in-vitro and in-vivo animal (Swiss albino male mice) model

Background

Ziziphus mauritiana belongs to family of Rhamnaceae, is an improved fast-growing variety of plum and seasonal fruit which is very popular and commonly known as “BAU Kul” in Bangladesh. This study was designed to evaluate the medicinal values of seed and stem bark extracts of Ziziphus mauritiana.

Methods

Antioxidant, thrombolytic, membrane stabilizing, cytotoxic and antimicrobial activities were characterized using in-vitro methods and anti-diarrheal, analgesic and hypoglycemic activities were evaluated in Swiss albino male mice. The coarse powder of the plant parts were extracted with methanol and methanol portion of the extract was evaporated naturally under room temperature. Then the dried plant extracts were undergone for subsequent investigation.

Results

Total phenolic and flavonoid content, and antioxidant capacity of stem bark extract were higher than seed extract. Both extracts had similar DPPH (IC50 of seed 4.53 μg/ml and stem bark 4.13 μg/ml) and NO (IC50 of seed 5.92 μg/ml and stem bark 5.47 μg/ml) free radicals scavenging potential and seed extract was most cytotoxic (LC50 = 1.467 μg/ml). Stem bark extract showed higher thrombolytic and anti-inflammatory potential, and also exhibited 14 mm zone of inhibition against S. aureus. Stem bark extract showed highest anti-diarrheal (75.68% defecation inhibition, p˂ 0.001), analgesic (68.63%writhing inhibition, p˂0.001) and hypoglycemic activity (44.27% blood glucose reduction after 3 h, p˂0.001) at 400 mg/kg body weight dose.

Conclusion

This study confirms good medicinal properties of selected plant parts. Further studies on isolation and characterization of its bioactive compounds are highly required.

Comparison of Different Extraction Methods for the Phenolic Compounds Recovery with the Antioxidant Activity of Bougainvillea x buttiana

Background:

Bougainvillea x buttiana has long been used as a Mexican conventional medicinal drug to cure different sicknesses.

Objective:

In this work, the consequences of ethanol combination and temperature extraction for phenolic compound recovery with the biological activity in Bougainvillea x buttiana extracts were investigated.

Materials and Methods:

The phenolic recovery from Bougainvillea x buttiana was determined by comparing the effects of ethanol 0%, 50-100% (v/v) and extraction temperature (26, 45 and 64°C). The total phenolic content was investigated using spectrophotometric methods. Antioxidant activity from different Bougainvillea x buttiana extracts was evaluated by determining their potential to scavenge the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical. The chemical compositions and cytotoxic effect of extracts were determined using GC-MS techniques and the crystal violet technique, respectively.

Results:

Our results confirmed that all extractions with different concentrations and temperatures had significant effects over the total phenolic contents and antioxidant activity (DPPH) of the extracts. The best recuperation of the total phenol content was observed in extracts with 60% ethanol at 26°C (201.08 mgEGA/g dry extract). Extracts with 100% ethanol at 26°C showed the highest antioxidant activity (IC50 was 286.75 μg/mL). GC-MS revealed the presence of various phytochemical contents with polar and non-polar properties. The phenolic compounds were investigated as to the structure, quantity and position of the hydroxyl groups on the benzene ring.

Conclusion:

The ethanolic extract of Bougainvillea x buttiana was confirmed to have high phenolic content and contain pharmacologically active compounds, with potent antioxidant effects and low cytotoxic effects.

Colonization by multi-potential Pseudomonas aeruginosa P4 stimulates peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) growth, defence physiology and root system functioning to benefit the root-rhizobacterial interface

The beneficial associations between Arachis hypogaea L. (peanut) and fluorescent Pseudomonas species have been poorly explored despite their predominance in the peanut rhizosphere. The present study explores the mutually beneficial interactions between peanut roots and P. aeruginosa P4 (P4) in terms of their impact on plant growth, defence physiology and the root-rhizobacterial interface. The efficient phosphate solubilizer P4 exhibited biocontrol abilities, including the production of siderophores, pyocyanin, indole-3-acetic acid and hydrogen cyanide. The bacterization of peanut seeds with multi-potential P4 significantly enhanced in vitro seed germination and seedling vigour. Under sand-based gnotobiotic (10 days post-inoculation) and sterile soil-based cultivation systems (30 days post-inoculation), sustained P4 colonization enhanced the peanut root length and dry plant biomass. The subsequent increase in catalase, polyphenol oxidase and phenylalanine ammonia lyase activities with increased phenolic contents in the peanut roots and shoots suggested the systemic priming of defences. Consequently, the altered root exudate composition caused enhanced chemo-attraction towards P4 itself and the symbiotic N₂-fixing Bradyrhizobium strain. Co-inoculating peanuts with P4 and Bradyrhizobium confirmed the improved total bacterial colonization (∼2 fold) of the root tip, with the successful co-localization of both, as substantiated by scanning electron microscopy. Collectively, the peanut-P4 association could potentially model the beneficial Pseudomonas-driven multi-trophic rhizosphere benefits, emphasizing the plausible role of non-rhizobium PGPR in promoting N₂ fixation.

Preliminary screening of Nicotiana glauca extracts for determination of antioxidant activity by different methods

Nicotiana glauca (Solanaceae), or tree tobacco, is found in dry arid climates of North America, Africa and Europe. It has been reported to have both toxic and medicinal properties. The main aim of this study was to analyze the phytochemical screening and quantitative estimation of polyphenols, flavonoids and flavonols of crude extracts from the leaves of Nicotiana glauca and to evaluate its in vitro antioxidant properties. Three different solvents were used to extract bioactive compounds from powdered leaves of Nicotiana glauca: dichloromethane (DCM), ethyl acetate (AE) and n-buthanol (n-BuOH). The three extracts were then subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening using standard procedures. Total phenolics, total flavonoids and total flavonols contents of the extracts were measured by Folin Ciocalteu and Aluminium chloride methods respectively. Furthermore, the antioxidant capacity evaluation was performed using the DPPH, ABTS, DMSO alcalin, Phenantroline, FRAP and CUPRAC methods. The three extracts were then subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening using standard procedures. These methods showed the presence of polyphenols and comarines in all extracts. Moreover, flavonoids, tannins, steroids and quinones were reported in the AE and n-BuOH extracts. In addition, alkaloids were seen to be present in DCM extract, while saponines and phlobatannins were absent in all extracts. The antioxidant capacity evaluation was performed using the DPPH, ABTS, DMSO alcalin, Phenantroline, FRAP and CUPRAC methods.

Results using the DPPH method showed strong free radical scavinging activity for three extracts. This activity decreased with increasing concentration in the following order: n-BuOH>AE>DCM. In other assays, all extracts showed good antioxidant activity which decreased with increasing concentration in the following order: AE > n-BuOH > DCM. Extracts were compared with standards: BHT, BHA, Tanic acid and α-Tocopherol. The antioxidant of these extracts is probably related to polyphenols content (351.55±0.07, 284.98±0.08 and 133.8±0.06 mg/g), flavonoids (105.97±0.04, 164.44±0.07 and 1.18±0.005 mg/g) and flavonols (22.41±0.24, 18.75±0.46 mg/g) in AE and n-BuOH, respectively.

As a conclusion, the results of the present study indicate that Nicotiana glauca leaves could be considered as a potential source of natural antioxidants.

Phytochemical Investigation, Antioxidant and Antimycobacterial Activities of Schkuhria pinnata (Lam) Thell Extracts Against Mycobacterium smegmatis

The focus of this study was to evaluate the antioxidants and antimycobacterial activities of extracts of Schkuhria pinnata. Serial exhaustive extraction procedure was employed using solvents of varying polarity to obtain the desired extracts. Thin layer chromatography and standard chemical tests were used to analyze phytochemicals constituents. Free radical scavenging 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) methods were used to detect the presence of antioxidant compounds. Antimycobacterial activity was evaluated using microdilution and bioautography assays. A variety of secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, tannins, and alkaloids were detected in the extract. Ethyl acetate and acetone extracts had high antioxidant activity on chromatograms eluted in ethyl acetate/methanol/water while methanol extract at various concentrations had the best scavenging activity. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranged from 0.02 to 2.50 mg/mL. Total phenol content was 55.33 ± 3.51 mg of gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g and higher when compared with flavonoids (4.00 ± 0.35 mg of quercetin equivalent [QE]/mg) and tannin content (28.00 ± 1.73 mg of GAE/g). The most effective antimycobacterial activity against Mycobacterium smegmatis was observed with the lowest inhibitory concentrations of acetone (0.27 mg/mL), dichloromethane (0.32 mg/mL), and ethyl acetate (0.32 mg/mL) in that order. In massive extraction, hexane and dichloromethane had the greatest inhibitory bands on benzene/ethanol/ammonium hydroxide bioautograms. Antimmycobacterial activity gives promising potential leads of S pinnata extracts to be used in the development of antimycobacterial drugs. The presence of antioxidant and antimycobacterial compounds requires further isolation and purification.

Effects of gamma radiation treatment on three different medicinal plants: Microbial limit test, total phenolic content, in vitro cytotoxicity effect and antioxidant assay

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of gamma radiation treatment on three medicinal plants, namely Euodia malayana, Gnetum gnemon and Khaya senegalensis at two different forms; methanol leaf extracts and dried leaves respectively.

EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE

The microbial limit test (MLT) studies indicated the suitable dosage of minimum and maximum gamma irradiation for leaf extracts as well as dried leaves of all the tested medicinal plants. Quantitative analysis of total phenolic content (TPC) analysis is based on calorimetric measurements determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent with gallic acid (GA) used as the reference. In vitro cytotoxicity assay by using fibroblast (L929) cell lines was performed on each plant to determine the toxicity effect which sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) as the positive control. DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl) assay was conducted by using vitamin C and GA as the positive controls to determine the antioxidant property of each plant.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

The MLT analysis indicated that the suitable dosage gamma irradiation for leaf extracts was 6-12 kGy and dried leaves were 9-13 kGy. The amount of GA concentration in each plant increased significantly from 30-51 mg GAE g^-1 before treatment to 57-103 mg GAE g^-1 after treatment with gamma radiation. This showed no significant effect of in vitro cytotoxicity activity before and after treatment with gamma irradiation in this study. Effective concentration (EC₅₀) values of Khaya senegalensis plant reduced significantly (P ≤ 0.005) from 44.510 μg/ml before treatment to 24.691 μg/ml after treatment with gamma radiation, which indicate an increase of free radical scavenging activity.

Development and Validation of Conditions for Extracting Flavonoids Content and Evaluation of Antioxidant and Cytoprotective Activities from Bougainvillea x buttiana Bracteas (var. Rose)

In this study the effect of the ethanol concentration of Bougainvillea x buttiana extracts on the flavonoids content, and its antioxidant and cytoprotective activities in vitro were determined and compared. For the elucidation of the chemical constituents, the high-performance liquid chromatography method (HPLC) was used, and verification of the antioxidant activity was carried out using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical method. The cytoprotective effects of extracts were determined by exposure to hydrogen peroxide. The HPLC analysis showed the presence of rutin, quercetin-3-glucoside and quercetin rhamnoside. Among the extracts investigated the best recuperation of the rutin content was observed in extracts with 80% ethanol (83 ± 5 mg/mL). The amounts of rutin present in all extracts contribute to the antioxidant capacity and the IC50 was 427.49 (0%), 275.41 (50%), 271.61 (80%), and 272.14 (100%) µg/mL. The lowest percentage of viability was found in the cultures exposed to 100% ethanol (92%). In cultures exposed to hydrogen peroxide the percentages of protection were 25%, 33%, 78%, and 65% for cultures treated for 72 h at 0%, 50%, 80%, and 100% ethanol, respectively. The ethanolic extract of B. x buttiana was confirmed to have high rutin content with potent antioxidant activity, low cytotoxic and strong cytoprotective effects.

Seasonal Variation in Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Activity in Leaves of Cyclocarya paliurus (Batal.) Iljinskaja

Cyclocarya paliurus (Batal.) Iljinskaja is a plant with nutraceutical importance since its leaves have been used historically as folk medicines for hundreds of years. The content of 10 phenolic compounds was determined throughout the growing season by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with UV detector, while the antioxidant activities of C. paliurus leaf extracts were evaluated by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt radical cation (ABTS), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods. Seasonal variations in phenolic concentration and antioxidant activity as well as linkage between the phenolic composition and antioxidant activity were assessed. A significant seasonal variation of phenolic compounds was observed in the leaves and the highest content appeared in May, July, and November. Seventy percent ethanol extract of C. paliurus leaves possessed a good radical scavenging potency. Meanwhile, a significant correlation between antioxidant activities and contents of phenolics was detected. Results of the relationship between molecular structures and their antioxidant activities showed that both the number and configuration of H-donating hydroxyl groups are the main structural features influencing the antioxidant capacity of phenolics, while glycosylation may reduce the antioxidant capacity. The information provided by this study not only revealed the accumulative dynamics of phenolic compounds, but also established a basis for determining the optimal time for harvesting to improve the content of beneficial compounds in the leaves of C. paliurus in the future.

Determination of the Phenolic Profile and Antioxidant Properties of Salvia viridis L. Shoots: A Comparison of Aqueous and Hydroethanolic Extracts

Salvia viridis L. is an annual herb used in Mediterranean medicine. The purpose of this study was to determine the polyphenol profile of aqueous (decoction and infusion) and hydroethanolic extracts of aerial parts of field-grown S.viridis and to evaluate their antioxidant activity. The polyphenol profiling was performed via UPLC-DAD/ESI-MS. Additionally, the total polyphenol content in extracts tested were determined by UV-Vis spectrophotometry using the Folin-Ciocalteu assay. The antioxidant effect was evaluated by the FRAP, DPPH, ABTS, O₂^•− scavenging and TBARS methods. The hydroethanolic extract gave the highest content of total phenolic compounds, followed by the infusion. The UPLC-DAD/ESI-MS analysis of extracts showed a total of 19 phenolic compounds identified as flavonoids (four compounds), phenylethanoids (eight compounds) and phenolic acids (seven compounds). Rosmarinic acid was the predominant phenolic acid, verbascoside was the predominant phenylethanoid, while apigenin glucuronide or methylluteolin glucuronide, depending on the sample, were the predominant flavonoids in the analyzed extracts. The presence of a high polyphenol level indicated a high antioxidant activity of both the infusion and the hydroalcoholic extract. These results indicate that S. viridis is a rich resource of phenolic compounds and can be used in dietary applications with the potential to reduce oxidative stress.

Extraction, isolation and identification of flavonoid from Chenopodium album aerial parts

Chenopodium album L., (C. album) (family: Chenopodiaceae) is an annual shrub widely grown in Asia, Africa, Europe and North America. It is commonly known as Bathua (in Hindi), pigweed, fat hen or lamb-quarters. The leaves of C. album are applied as a poultice to bug bites, sunstroke, rheumatic joints and as mild laxative. The flavonoids contained in C. album aerial parts were extracted, identified and characterized. Sequential soxhlet extraction was subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening and flavonoid quantification. The results showed that maximum yield of the flavonoid (7.335 mg/g) were obtained from acetone extract. This acetone extract was subjected to flash chromatography for isolation of flavonoid. Characterization of isolated flavonoid was done by UV, IR, 1H & 13C NMR and MS. On the basis of chemical and spectral analysis structure was elucidated as 2-(3, 4-dihydroxyphenyl)-3, 5, 7-trihydroxy-4H-chromen-4-one, a flavonoid.

Antiproliferative Properties Against Human Breast, Cervical and Ovarian Cancer Cell Lines, and Antioxidant Capacity of Leaf Aqueous Ethanolic Extract from Cotinus coggygria Scop

Cotinus coggygria Scop. leaf aqueous ethanolic extract was examined for its in vitro antiproliferative and antioxidant activity. Antiproliferative effect was assessed on four human gynecological cancer cell lines: breast (MCF7, T47D), cervical (HeLa) and ovarian (A2780) and compared to the cell growth inhibitory effect on non-cancerous breast epithelial cell line MCF10A using MTT cell proliferation assay. Radical scavenging assay with DPPH was applied to evaluate antioxidant potential of the extract. The obtained results showed that the herb inhibited cell growth of all of the tested cancer cell lines and the highest was the cytostatic effect on A2780 cells with a half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 30.8 μg/ml. For the other cell lines the IC50 values were in the range of 55-122.7 μg/ml. Additionally, the extract exerted considerably weaker reduction in cell proliferation of the non-cancerous cell line MCF10A compared to cancer cells, which indicates for antiproliferative selectivity. C. coggygria extract showed high free radical scavenging activity with an IC50 value of 11.2 μg/ml. The obtained data provide evidence for pharmacological potential of the tested extract and future more detailed studies concerning the molecular mechanisms of the anticancer effect of the herb are needed.

Antioxidative mechanisms in chlorogenic acid

Although chlorogenic acid (5CQA) is an important ingredient of various foods and beverages, mechanisms of its antioxidative action have not been fully clarified. Besides electron spin resonance experiment, this study includes thermodynamic and mechanistic investigations of the hydrogen atom transfer (HAT), radical adduct formation (RAF), sequential proton loss electron transfer (SPLET), and single electron transfer - proton transfer (SET-PT) mechanisms of 5CQA in benzene, ethanol, and water solutions. The calculations were performed using the M06-2X/6-311++G(d,p) level of theory and CPCM solvation model. It was found that SET-PT is not a plausible antioxidative mechanism of 5CQA. RAF pathways are faster, but HAT yields thermodynamically more stable radical products, indicating that in acidic and neutral media 5CQA can take either HAT or RAF pathways. In basic environment (e.g. at physiological pH) SPLET is the likely antioxidative mechanism of 5CQA with extremely high rate.

Total flavonoid concentrations of bryophytes from Tianmu Mountain, Zhejiang Province (China): Phylogeny and ecological factors

The flavonoids in bryophytes may have great significance in phylogeny and metabolism research. However, to date there has been little research on bryophyte metabolites, especially flavonoids. To redress this somewhat, we determined flavonoid concentrations of bryophytes from Tianmu Mountain through a colorimetric assay and considered the factors influencing the results. This is the first time that the flavonoid contents of bryophytes have been examined in detail. The results revealed a range of total flavonoid concentrations in 90 samples collected from Tianmu Mountain from 1.8 to 22.3 mg/g (w/w). The total flavonoid contents of liverworts were generally higher than those of mosses; acrocarpous mosses had generally higher values than that of pleurocarpous mosses. The total flavonoid contents of bryophytes growing at lower light levels were general higher than those growing in full-sun. The total flavonoid contents of epiphytic bryophytes were highest, while those of aquatic bryophytes were the lowest. Total flavonoid contents of species growing at low-latitudes were much higher than those at high-latitude individuals. In conclusion, total flavonoid contents of bryophytes have some connection with plant phylogeny; more flavonoids might be contained in relatively primitive bryophytes. Meanwhile, the effects of ecological factors on total flavonoid contents of bryophytes exist; light and habitat (especially tree habitat and river habitat) might be representative factor.

Antioxidant effect of leaf extracts from Cressa cretica against oxidation process in soybean oil

Phenolic compounds from Cressa cretica leaves were extracted using different solvents (water and ethanol 70%) during 3-24 h by immersion method and were determined according to the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The antioxidant activities of the extracts were investigated by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, ferric reduction activity potential and total antioxidant capacity assays compared with synthetic antioxidant namely BHT. The results were shown that the most total phenol content was outcome of the ethanolic extract after 18 h (68.512 ± 0.36 mg gallic acid/g dry extract) extraction. The results of different assays for determination of antioxidant potential of the extracts as well as their EC50 values were indicated antioxidant activities in order: BHT>ethanolic extract>aqueous extract. Also, the antioxidant activities were enhanced with increasing of the extracts and BHT concentrations. The results of Peroxide value (PV) and Thiobarbituric acid (TBA) tests were revealed that the ethanolic extract with various concentrations (200-1000 ppm) were suppressed the oxidation of soybean oil. The highest oxidation inhibitor was belonged to 1000 ppm concentration of the ethanolic extract so that can be good alternative for BHT.

Formulation and characterization of an apigenin-phospholipid phytosome (APLC) for improved solubility, in vivo bioavailability, and antioxidant potential

The apigenin-phospholipid phytosome (APLC) was developed to improve the aqueous solubility, dissolution, in vivo bioavailability, and antioxidant activity of apigenin. The APLC synthesis was guided by a full factorial design strategy, incorporating specific formulation and process variables to deliver an optimized product. The design-optimized formulation was assayed for aqueous solubility, in vitro dissolution, pharmacokinetics, and antioxidant activity. The pharmacological evaluation was carried out by assessing its effects on carbon tetrachloride-induced elevation of liver function marker enzymes in a rat model. The antioxidant activity was assessed by studying its effects on the liver antioxidant marker enzymes. The developed model was validated using the design-optimized levels of formulation and process variables. The physical-chemical characterization confirmed the formation of phytosomes. The optimized formulation demonstrated over 36-fold higher aqueous solubility of apigenin, compared to that of pure apigenin. The formulation also exhibited a significantly higher rate and extent of apigenin release in dissolution studies. The pharmacokinetic analysis revealed a significant enhancement in the oral bioavailability of apigenin from the prepared formulation, compared to pure apigenin. The liver function tests indicated that the prepared phytosome showed a significantly improved restoration of all carbon tetrachloride-elevated rat liver function marker enzymes. The prepared formulation also exhibited antioxidant potential by significantly increasing the levels of glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and decreasing the levels of lipid peroxidase. The study shows that phospholipid-based phytosome is a promising and viable strategy for improving the delivery of apigenin and similar phytoconstituents with low aqueous solubility.

Characterization of Chemical Compounds with Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Activities in Bougainvillea x buttiana Holttum and Standl, (var. Rose) Extracts

Bougainvillea is widely used in traditional Mexican medicine to treat several diseases. This study was designed to characterize the chemical constituents of B. x buttiana extracts with antioxidant and cytotoxic activities using different solvents. The extraction solvents used were as follows: distilled water (dH₂O), methanol (MeOH), acetone (DMK), ethanol (EtOH), ethyl acetate (EtOAc), dichloromethane (DCM), and hexane (Hex) (100%) at an extraction temperature of 26 °C. Analysis of bioactive compounds present in the B. x buttiana extracts included the application of common phytochemical screening assays, GC-MS analysis, and cytotoxicity and antioxidant assays. The results show that the highest extraction yield was observed with water and methanol. The maximum total phenolic content amount and highest antioxidant potential were obtained when extraction with methanol was used. With the exceptions of water and ethanol extractions, all other extracts showed cytotoxicity ranging between 31% and 50%. The prevailing compounds in water, methanol, ethanol, and acetone solvents were as follows: 4H-pyran-4-one, 2,3-dihydro-3, 5-dihydroxy-6-methyl (2), 2-propenoic acid, 3-(2-hydrophenyl)-(E)- (3), and 3-O-methyl-d-glucose (6). By contrast, the major components in the experiments using solvents such as EtOH, DMK, EtOAc, DCM, and Hex were n-hexadecanoic acid (8), 9,12-octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z) (12); 9-octadecenoic acid (E)- (13), and stigmasta-5,22-dien-3-ol (28).

A possible general mechanism for ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) suggested from the results of UAE of chlorogenic acid from Cynara scolymus L. (artichoke) leaves

The use of ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) for the extraction of chlorogenic acid (CA) from Cynara scolymus L., (artichoke) leaves using 80% methanol at room temperature over 15 min gave a significant increase in yield (up to a 50%) compared with maceration at room temperature and close to that obtained by boiling over the same time period. A note of caution is introduced when comparing UAE with Soxhlet extraction because, in the latter case, the liquid entering the Soxhlet extractor is more concentrated in methanol (nearly 100%) that the solvent in the reservoir (80% methanol) due to fractionation during distillation. The mechanism of UAE is discussed in terms of the effects of cavitation on the swelling index, solvent diffusion and the removal of a stagnant layer of solvent surrounding the plant material.

Effect of ultrasonic treatment on total phenolic extraction from Lavandula pubescens and its application in palm olein oil industry

The aims of the current study were to evaluate the best technique for total phenolic extraction from Lavandula pubescens (Lp) and its application in vegetable oil industries as alternatives of synthetic food additives (TBHQ and BHT). To achieve these aims, three techniques of extraction were used: ultrasonic-microwave (40 kHz, 50 W, microwave power 480 W, 5 min), ultrasonic-homogenizer (20 kHz, 150 W, 5 min) and conventional maceration as a control. By using the Folin-Ciocalteu method, the total phenolic contents (TPC) (mg gallic acid equivalent/g dry matter) were found to be 253.87, 216.96 and 203.41 for ultrasonic-microwave extract, ultrasonic-homogenizer extract and maceration extract, respectively. The ultrasonic-microwave extract achieved the higher scavenger effect of DPPH (90.53%) with EC50 (19.54 μg/mL), and higher inhibition of β-carotene/linoleate emulsion deterioration (94.44%) with IC50 (30.62 μg/mL). The activity of the ultrasonic-microwave treatment could prolong the induction period (18.82 h) and oxidative stability index (1.67) of fresh refined, bleached and deodorized palm olein oil (RBDPOo) according to Rancimat assay. There was an important synergist effect between citric acid and Lp extracts in improving the oxidative stability of fresh RBDPOo. The results of this work also showed that the ultrasonic-microwave assisted extract was the most effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains that were assessed in this study. The uses of ultrasonic-microwave could induce the acoustic cavitation and rupture of plant cells, and this facilitates the flow of solvent into the plant cells and enhances the desorption from the matrix of solid samples, and thus would enhance the efficiency of extraction based on cavitation phenomenon.

Antioxidant activities of essential oil of Bidens pilosa (Linn. Var. Radita) used for the preservation of food qualities in North Cameroon

This study aimed to determine the total antioxidant capacity of the essential oil (EO) of leaves of Bidens pilosa (Linn. Var. Radita) used as protectant of stored grains in Northern Cameroon. EO was characterized by GC‐FID, antioxidant activity (AA) was determined by combining: evaluation of radical‐scavenging activity, reducing power (RP) and co‐oxidation of β‐carotene methods. Tests were carried out on crude and stored EO kept for two weeks at 31.48 ± 2.88°C and 58.56 ± 6.78% relative humidity. These conditions are the same as those of grain storage. GC analyses enabled the identification of 27 compounds, representing around 97.57% of the total oil contents. The major constituents of the EO were α‐pinene (14.7%), ε‐caryophyllene (13.5), and β‐ocimene (12.8%). The AA of the crude and stored EO are proportional to the concentrations and time of exposition. Exposed at the day light, this EO inhibit 77.4–18.69% for the DPPH system, 59.55–19.14% for RP method and 91.88–21.8% for β‐carotene‐linoleate model system, respectively, from crude and 15 days storage EO at 20 mg L⁻¹. For the EC₅₀ values, β‐carotene method is excellent and in the decreasing order of DPPH method, PR with 2.52 mg L⁻¹, 2.77 mg L⁻¹ and 4.13 mg L⁻¹, respectively, for the crude oil. The ET₅₀ were 1.59 days for the RP method and 2.88 days DPPH system and β‐carotene‐linoleate model system at 20 mg L⁻¹. These results showed that the EO of B. pilosa leaves exhibits AA that might be an added value for this EO preventing stored products from pest attacks.

Improving the hydrogen peroxide bleaching efficiency of aspen chemithermomechanical pulp by using chitosan

The presence of transition metals during the hydrogen peroxide bleaching of pulp results in the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, which decreases the bleaching efficiency. In this study, chitosans were used as peroxide stabilizer in the alkaline hydrogen peroxide bleaching of aspen chemithermomechanical pulp (CTMP). The results showed that the brightness of the bleached CTMP increased 1.5% ISO by addition of 0.1% chitosan with 95% degree of deacetylation during peroxide bleaching. Transition metals in the form of ions or metal colloid particles, such as iron, copper and manganese, could be adsorbed by chitosans. Chitosans could inhibit the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide catalyzed by different transition metals under alkaline conditions. The ability of chitosans to inhibit peroxide decomposition depended on the type of transition metals, chitosan concentration and degree of deacetylation applied. The addition of chitosan slightly reduced the concentration of the hydroxyl radical formed during the hydrogen peroxide bleaching of aspen CTMP.

Diversity of active constituents in Cichorium endivia and Cynara cornigera extracts

The present study attempts to explore the phytochemical constituents of different extracts from Cynara cornigera and Cichorium endivia plant materials. The two species studied are native in Egypt. Five different solvents, viz., aqueous, methylene chloride, petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, and n-butanol were used. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of phenols, flavonoids, sterols (stigmasterol and beta-sitosterol), terpenes (α-amyrin, ursolic and oleanolic acid), and hydrocarbons (n-alkane), the latter found in low amount. The ethyl acetate and water extracts of C. cornigera root showed lower mass fractions of phenolic compounds ranged from 20 to 81 g/100 g, and higher amounts in ethyl acetate extract of the inflorescences and butanol extract of the root where values ranged from 195 to 399 g/100 g. The β-sitosterol and stigmasterol were present in all plant extracts. Oleanolic and ursolic acids were detected in roots, leaves and inflorescences of C. cornigera and in C. endivia shoot. The ethyl acetate extracts from C. cornigera leaf and inflorescence attained higher chemical diversity than the other extracts. Alternatively, sterols and triterpenes were the major constituents. The high chemical diversity of active constituents justifies the future potential use of the two species at commercial level.

Characterization of phytochemicals and evaluation of anti-cancer potential of Blumea eriantha DC

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the in vitro anti-cancer and anti-oxidant potential of methanol extract of Blumea eriantha as well as its phytochemical characterization. The in vitro cytotoxic and antiproliferative activities of B. eriantha methanolic extract of leaves were evaluated using MTT assay on HeLa and B16F10 cell lines, and wound scratch and colony formation assays on B16F10 cell lines. The expressions of p53 and Bcl-2 genes were also determined by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction to establish apoptosis. Isolation and identification of chemical constituents were carried out by various chromatographic and spectroscopic analytical techniques including HPTLC and LC-MS. The methanol extract of the leaves of B. eriantha showed potent in vitro antioxidant and anticancer properties. Moreover, the extract showed significant loss of wound healing, thus suggesting that it could prevent a possible metastasis. Hence, B. eriantha could be explored as a potential anticancer plant with antimetastatic properties.

Antioxidant potential and its relationship with polyphenol content and degree of polymerization in Opuntia elatior Mill. fruits

BACKGROUND

Opuntia elatior Mill. (Nagaphani) fruits are traditionally recommended as an expectorant, remedy for whooping cough, asthma, gonorrhea, ulcers, tumors, in the treatment of diarrhea and syphilis. Many of these diseases are allied with oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Thus, current research is directed towards finding naturally-occurring antioxidants of plant origin.

AIM

To evaluate antioxidant potential of hydro-alcoholic extract of the O. elatior fruits (HAOE) and its fractions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and nitric oxide radical scavenging assay, total polyphenolic, flavonoid (FA), flavanone (FO) contents and degree of polymerization in relation with its antioxidant activity were examined.

RESULTS

The experimental data indicated that the HAOE, ethyl acetate (EAOE) and butanol (BFOE) soluble fractions have shown significant antioxidant activity. The highest polyphenolic, FA, FO contents and degree of polymerization were found in EAOE. The scavenging potential was in the order of Ascorbic Acid > EAOE > BFOE > HAOE > BIOE, where ascorbic acid was used as a positive control. The increased antioxidant potential of EAOE and BFOE fractions over HAOE extract may be attributed to the purification achieved by fractionation of the extract which in turn resulted in an increase in the degree of polymerization and segregation of secondary metabolites.

CONCLUSION

The fruit of O. elatior can be used as the best alternative for synthetic antioxidants.

A comparative study of the antioxidant, antimicrobial, cytotoxic and thrombolytic potential of the fruits and leaves of Spondias dulcis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the antioxidant, antimicrobial, cytotoxic and thrombolytic property of the fruits and leaves of Spondias dulcis (S. dulcis).

METHODS

Methanolic extracts of fruits and leaves of S. dulcis were partitioned with chloroform and dichloromethane. The antioxidant potential of the crude extract and partitioned fractions were evaluated in terms of total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, DPPH radical scavenging potential, reducing potential and total antioxidant capacity by specific standard procedures. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated using disc diffusion method. The cytotoxicity was evaluated by using brine shrimp lethality bioassay and compared with vincristine sulfate. The thrombolytic activity was compared with streptokinase.

RESULTS

The methanolic fruit extract exhibited the highest phenolic content, flavonoid content and antioxidant capacity, among the other extracts, with the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity at a concentration of 10 µg/mL (IC50: 1.91 µg/mL) and maximum reducing power at a concentration of 100 µg/mL (EC50: 3.58 µg/mL). Though all extract showed moderate antimicrobial activity against the bacterial strains, weak or no activity against fungus. The range of LC50 value of all extracts was 1.335-14.057 µg/mL which was far lower than the cut off index for cytotoxicity. All extracts exhibited statistically significant (P<0.001) thrombolytic activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggested that S. dulcis exhibits antimicrobial activities against a wide variety of strains while it possesses significant antioxidant, cytotoxic and thrombolytic activity.

Studies on Antimicrobial and Immunomodulatory Effects of Hot Aqueous Extract of Acacia nilotica L. Leaves against Common Veterinary Pathogens

Acacia nilotica is a plant species that is almost ubiquitously found in different parts of the world. Various preparations of it have been advocated in folk medicine for the treatment of tuberculosis, leprosy, smallpox, dysentery, cough, ophthalmia, toothache, skin cancer as astringent, antispasmodic, and aphrodisiac since immemorial times. The present study investigates the antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and immunomodulatory potential of hot aqueous extract (HAE) of Acacia nilotica leaves. On dry matter basis, the filtered HAE had a good extraction ratio (33.46%) and was found to have carbohydrates, glycosides, phytosterols, phenolic compounds, saponins, and flavonoids as major constituents. HAE produced dose dependent zone of inhibition against Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E. coli, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Streptococcus uberis and fungal pathogens Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus fumigates; however, no antiviral activity was recorded against IBR virus. HAE of A. nilotica revealed both proliferative and inhibitory effects on the rat splenocytes and IL-10 release depending on the dose. Detailed studies involving wide spectrum of bacterial, fungal, and viral species are required to prove or know the exact status of each constituents of the plant extract.

Study to find the best extraction solvent for use with guava leaves (Psidium guajava L.) for high antioxidant efficacy

The effects of guava leaves extracted using solvents of water, ethanol, methanol, and different concentrations of hydroethanolic solvents on phenolic compounds and flavonoids, and antioxidant properties have been investigated. The antioxidant capability was assessed based on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical and 2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radical-scavenging abilities, reducing power, and nitric oxide-and nitrate-scavenging activities. The results demonstrated that the antioxidant ability of guava leaf extracts has a strong relationship with phenolic compound content rather than flavonoid content. Phenolic compound content of water extracted guava leaves was higher compared to pure ethanol and methanol extracts. However, phenolic compound content extracted using hydroethanolic solvent was higher than water, whereas 50% hydroethanolic was observed to be the most effective solvent showing high antioxidant ability.