Clinical Evaluation of a Novel, Patented Green Coffee Bean Extract (GCB70®), Enriched in 70% Chlorogenic Acid, in Overweight Individuals

OBJECTIVE

Obesity and overweight are challenging health problems of the millennium that lead to diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and atherosclerosis. Green coffee bean exhibited significant promise in healthy weight management, potentiating glucose-insulin sensitization and supporting liver health. The safety and efficacy of a novel, patented water-soluble green coffee bean extract (GCB70® enriched in 70% total chlorogenic acid and <1% caffeine) was investigated in 105 participants for 12 consecutive weeks. An institutional review board and Drugs Controller General (India) (DCGI) approvals were obtained, and the study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov.

METHOD

Body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, lipid profile, plasma leptin, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and total blood chemistry were assessed over a period of 12 weeks of treatment. Safety was affirmed.

RESULTS

GCB70 (500 mg BID) supplementation significantly reduced body weight (approximately 6%; p = 0.000**) in approximately 97% of the study population. About a 5.65% statistically significant reduction (p = 0.000**) in BMI was observed in 96% of the study volunteers. Waist circumference was significantly reduced by 6.77% and 6.62% in 98% of the male and female participants, respectively. Plasma leptin levels decreased by 13.6% in 99% of the study population as compared to the baseline value. Upon completion of 12 weeks' treatment, fasting glucose levels decreased by 13.05% (p = 0.000**) in 79% of the study population. There was a statistically significant decrease in HbA1c levels in both male and female participants (p = 0.000**), while 86.7% of the study participants showed a statistically significant decrease in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels (p = 0.000**). The mean decrease in TSH levels on completion of the treatment was 14.07% in the study population as compared to baseline levels. Total blood chemistry analysis exhibited broad-spectrum safety.

CONCLUSIONS

This investigation demonstrated that GCB70 is safe and efficacious in healthy weight management.

Dendrobium officinale flowers' topical extracts improve skin oxidative stress and aging

BACKGROUND

Dendrobium officinale flowers (DOF) have the effects of antiaging and nourishing yin, but it lacks pharmacological research on skin aging.

OBJECTIVE

Confirming the role of DOF in delaying skin aging based on the "in vitro animal-human" model.

METHODS

In this experiment, three kinds of free radical scavenging experiments in vitro, D-galactose-induced aging mouse model, and human antiaging efficacy test were used to test whether DOF can improve skin aging through anti-oxidation.

RESULTS

In vitro experiment shows that DOF has certain scavenging effect on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical, hydroxyl free radical, and superoxide free radical, and its IC50 is 0.2090 μg/mL, 15.020, and 1.217 mg/mL respectively. DOF can enhance the activities of T-AOC, SOD, CAT, and GSH Px in the serum of aging mice, increase the content of GSH, and reduce the content of MDA when administered with DOF of 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 g/kg for 6 weeks. In addition, it can enhance the activity of SOD in the skin of aging mice, increase the content of Hyp, and decrease the content of MDA, activated Keap1/Nrf2 pathway in the skin of aging mice. Applying DOF with a concentration of 0.2 g/mL on the face for 8 weeks can significantly improve the skin water score and elasticity value, reduce facial wrinkles, pores, acne, and UV spots, and improve the facial brown spots and roughness.

CONCLUSION

DOF can significantly improve skin aging caused by oxidative stress, and its mechanism may be related to scavenging free radicals in the body and improving skin quality.

Gastrointestinal Tolerability and Acute Glycemic Response of Oligosaccharides and Polysaccharides from Cellulose and Xylan in Healthy Adults: Two Double-Blinded, Randomized, Controlled, Cross-over Trials

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the gastrointestinal tolerability, glycemic and insulinemic responses of Plant Fiber Extract (PFE), a mixture comprising of oligosaccharides and polysaccharides derived from cellulose and xylan.

METHODS

Two double-blind, randomized, controlled, cross-over trials were conducted in healthy adults. In the first trial, participants (n = 29) consumed either 25, 35 or 45 g per day of PFE or resistant maltodextrin (Control) for 14 days. The occurrence and severity of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, stool parameters, and safety outcomes were evaluated with a combination of surveys and blood analysis respectively. In the second trial (n = 20), the post-prandial glycemic and insulinemic responses after the ingestion of 20 g of PFE diluted in water or incorporated into chocolate chips was measured and then compared to that of glucose and regular chocolate, respectively.

RESULTS

For all timepoints (0, 7 and 14 days), within any given dose group, there was no statistically significant difference in the GI symptoms score between PFE and Control. Further, for each test product (PFE or Control), no difference was observed in the same dose group from days 0 and 14. Stool consistency score and number of participants experiencing loose or watery stools was similar between products. No serious adverse events were reported and neither PFE nor Control significantly altered blood or urine safety parameters. The glycemic and insulinemic responses after PFE ingestion in comparison to glucose were 12% and 8% respectively. The glycemic and insulinemic responses after consuming chocolate containing PFE were 20% of that of regular chocolate.

CONCLUSION

PFE was well-tolerated by healthy volunteers in doses up to 45 g/day and it elicited comparatively low glycemic and insulinemic responses when consumed alone or when incorporated into a food product.

Radix Bupleuri-Radix Paeoniae Alba Inhibits the Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma through Activation of the PTEN/PD-L1 Axis within the Immune Microenvironment

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated how Radix Bupleuri-Radix Paeoniae Alba (BP) was active against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS

Traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology (TCMSP) database was employed to determine the active ingredients of BP and potential targets against HCC. Molecular docking analysis verified the binding activity of PTEN with BP ingredients. H22 cells were used to establish an HCC model in male balb/c mice. Immunofluorescence staining, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, western blotting, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and real-time quantitative PCR were used to study changes in proliferation, apoptosis, PTEN levels, inflammation, and T-cell differentiation in male balb/c mice.

RESULTS

The major active ingredients in BP were found to be quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, stigmasterol, and beta-sitosterol. Molecular docking demonstrated that these five active BP ingredients formed a stable complex with PTEN. BP exhibited an anti-tumor effect in our HCC mouse model. BP was found to increase the CD8+ and IFN-γ+/CD4+ T cell levels while decreasing the PD-1+/CD8+ T and Treg cell levels in HCC mice. BP up-regulated the IL-6, IFN-γ, and TNF-α levels but down-regulated the IL-10 levels in HCC mice. After PTEN knockdown, BP-induced effects were abrogated.

CONCLUSION

BP influenced the immune microenvironment through activation of the PTEN/PD-L1 axis, protecting against HCC.

Hepatoprotective effects of a chemically-characterized extract from artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) against AFB1-induced toxicity in rats

This study was conducted to investigate the protective potential of a pharmaceutically formulated capsule of artichoke leaf powder (ArLP) against aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)-induced hepatotoxicity in male albino rats. In the 42-day experiment, rats were divided into five equal groups: (i) control, treated with sterile water, (ii) treated with 4% DMSO as AFB1 vehicle, (iii) ArLP of 100 mg kg-1 bw, (iv) AFB1 of 72 µg kg-1 bw, and (v) AFB1 plus ArLP. Exposure of rats to AFB1 resulted in hepatotoxicity as manifested by the intensification of oxidative stress, production of free radicals and significant increase in the activity levels of liver function enzymes relative to the control. Significant reductions in both the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant markers as well as histopathological abnormalities in liver tissues were also observed. Notably, the combined administration of ArLP with AFB1 clearly reduced AFB1-mediated adverse effects leading to the normalization of most of these parameters back to control levels. These findings clearly highlight the potential benefits of artichoke dietary supplements as a safe and natural solution in counteracting the adverse hepatotoxic effects conferred by AFB1 exposure. Further research is warranted to fully dissect the biochemical and molecular mechanism of action of the observed artichoke-mediated hepatoprotection.

A prospective multicentre controlled study of Gaoweikang (Chinese multiherb extract-based tincture) used in high-risk HPV infections

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to investigate the safety and antiviral efficacy of a Chinese multiherb extract-based tincture (GWK) on a population of patients with high-risk human papilloma (hrHPV) infections and hrHPV-caused cervical low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSILs).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with persistent hrHPV infection were enrolled in Group A, including A1 subjects, who received the intervention, and A2 subjects, who received the control. Patients with hrHPV infection causing cervical LSIL were enrolled in Group B, which included B1 subjects, who received the intervention, and B2 subjects, who served as the control. For Groups A1 and B1, hrHPV was tested at 3 months (M3) and 6 months (M6) after the intervention. The side effects were also analyzed.

RESULTS

At baseline (D0), a total of 99 patients were enrolled in Group A, with 50 subjects in Group A1 and 49 subjects in Group A2. A total of 91 patients were enrolled in Group B, with 45 subjects in Group B1 and 46 subjects in Group B2. There was no significant difference in the characteristics, including average age, age stratification, and HPV genotype. At M6, both Group A1 and Group B1 had a higher hrHPV clearance rate than the control group (A1/A2: 80.0% vs. 20.4%; B1/B2: 64.4% vs. 15.2%, p<0.001). At M6, the effective rates of Group A1 and Group B1 were 84% (42/50) and 68.9% (31/45), respectively. The side effect rates of Groups A1 and B1 were 11.5% (6/52) and 11.1% (5/45), respectively. Most adverse reactions involved local discomfort, including vulvar erythema, vulvar itch, increased vaginal discharge, cervical bleeding, and mild pain in the lower abdomen. Univariate logistic regression analysis showed that the intervention had an OR of 12 (95% CI 4.431-32.50) for clearing persistent HPV infection (p<0.001). For cervical LSIL, the intervention had an OR of 10.1 for clearing persistent HPV infection (95% CI 3.68-27.7) (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that the Chinese multiherb extract-based tincture GWK is safe and well tolerated. Furthermore, this preliminary study showed that this Chinese multiherb extract-based tincture is helpful for promoting HPV clearance in cases of persistent HPV and HPV-induced LSIL.

Recovery of motor function is associated with rescue of glutamate biomarkers in the striatum and motor cortex following treatment with Mucuna pruriens in a murine model of Parkinsons disease

There is growing interest in the use of natural products for the treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD). Mucuna pruriens has been used in the treatment of humans with PD. The goal of this study was to determine if daily oral treatment with an extract of Mucuna pruriens, starting after the MPTP-induced loss of nigrostriatal dopamine in male mice, would result in recovery/restoration of motor function, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) protein expression in the nigrostriatal pathway, or glutamate biomarkers in both the striatum and motor cortex. Following MPTP administration, resulting in an 80 % loss of striatal TH, treatment with Mucuna pruriens failed to rescue either striatal TH or the dopamine transporter back to the control levels, but there was restoration of gait/motor function. There was an MPTP-induced loss of TH-labeled neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta and in the number of striatal dendritic spines, both of which failed to be recovered following treatment with Mucuna pruriens. This Mucuna pruriens-induced locomotor recovery following MPTP was associated with restoration of two striatal glutamate transporter proteins, GLAST (EAAT1) and EAAC1 (EAAT3), and the vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (Vglut2) within the motor cortex. Post-MPTP treatment with Mucuna pruriens, results in locomotor improvement that is associated with recovery of striatal and motor cortex glutamate transporters but is independent of nigrostriatal TH restoration.

Efficacy and safety of salvianolate and enoxaparin in the prevention of perioperative deep venous thrombosis in gastrointestinal surgery

OBJECTIVE

In this study, the efficacy and safety of salvianolate were compared with enoxaparin in the prevention of perioperative deep vein thrombosis in gastrointestinal surgery.

METHODS

From October 2017 to September 2019, 563 patients who underwent gastrointestinal surgery were collected. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 119 patients were divided into two groups: enoxaparin group (n = 65) and salvianolate group (n = 54). Comparisons were made regarding the outcomes: prothrombin time (PT), prothrombin activity (PTA), international normalized ratio (INR), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), fibrinogen (FIB), thrombin time (TT), D-dimer level (D-D), platelet count (PLT), hematokrit (HCT), and incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

RESULTS

The main outcomes showed no significance between enoxaparin group and salvianolate group (p > .05). The incidence of DVT in salvianolate group was 1.85%, significantly lower than that in enoxaparin group (12.3%) (p < .05). No serious adverse reactions occurred in the two groups during treatment.

CONCLUSION

Compared with enoxaparin, salvianolate has an advantage in the prevention of perioperative thrombosis in gastrointestinal surgery with a lower incidence of DVT.

Dietary Supplementation of Caulerpa racemosa Ameliorates Cardiometabolic Syndrome via Regulation of PRMT-1/DDAH/ADMA Pathway and Gut Microbiome in Mice

This study evaluated the effects of an aqueous extract of Caulerpa racemosa (AEC) on cardiometabolic syndrome markers, and the modulation of the gut microbiome in mice administered a cholesterol- and fat-enriched diet (CFED). Four groups of mice received different treatments: normal diet, CFED, and CFED added with AEC extract at 65 and 130 mg/kg body weight (BW). The effective concentration (EC₅₀) values of AEC for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and lipase inhibition were lower than those of the controls in vitro. In the mice model, the administration of high-dose AEC showed improved lipid and blood glucose profiles and a reduction in endothelial dysfunction markers (PRMT-1 and ADMA). Furthermore, a correlation between specific gut microbiomes and biomarkers associated with cardiometabolic diseases was also observed. In vitro studies highlighted the antioxidant properties of AEC, while in vivo data demonstrated that AEC plays a role in the management of cardiometabolic syndrome via regulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, endothelial function (PRMT-1/DDAH/ADMA pathway), and gut microbiota.

Comparative evaluation of Sapindus Mukorossi extract with 17% EDTA on smear layer removal in various parts of the tooth root

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of an experimental root canal irrigant and 17% Ethylene-di-amine tetra acetic acid for removal of the smear layer in the coronal, middle and apical portions of the root canal.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ninety human single rooted maxillary and mandibular teeth were selected for this study. The teeth were randomly divided into two experimental groups and one control group as follows: Group A (Ethanolic extract of Sapindus Mukorossi), Group B (17% EDTA), and Group C (Distilled water). The root canals of all three groups were prepared with stainless steel K-files by means of the standard step-back technique and irrigated with 5.25% sodium hypo chloride. The teeth were decoronated, following the irrigation and divided longitudinally into two-halves and visualized using scanning electron microscope (SEM) for the amount of smear layer present utilizing the three-point score system. The observations were noted both before and after the treatment. Nonparametric tests were applied for the comparison and p-value ⩽ 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

RESULTS

It was evident from that smear layer was completely removed in coronal portion of 27 out of 30 teeth in-group A. For middle and apical areas of group A, 24 and 19 teeth showed complete smear layer removal. In-group B it was found that there were 24, 21, and 3 teeth at coronal, middle and apical, areas respectively where smear layer were completely absent. Intra group comparison showed a significant difference (p = 0.002) in smear layer removal was found for group A at coronal, middle and apical thirds. Similarly, a significant difference (p = 0.001) was also found for group B; however heavy smear layer was found among the three parts of the canal for group C.

CONCLUSIONS

Ethanolic extract of Sapindus Mukorossi have higher effectiveness in removing the smear layer from the root canal in comparison to 17% EDTA.

Seed extract of Thai Mucuna pruriens reduced male reproductive damage in rats induced by chronic stress

CONTEXT

Thai Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. var. pruriens (Fabaceae) (TMP) is known to enrich reproduction but preventive effects on stress related adverse reproductive parameters are not documented.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates the protective property of TMP seed extract on reproductive damage under chronic stress (CS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups. The control and CS groups received distilled water, whereas the pre-treated rats received the aqueous TMP seed extract at doses of 150 and 300 mg/kg BW for 20 days before co-treatments with CS induction (immobilization and forced swimming) for 81 days. Serum was used to determine the cortisol and testosterone levels. Histology of testis and epididymis was observed with localization of androgen receptor (AR). Sperm parameters and the expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR), cytochrome P450 family 11 subfamily a member 1 (CYP11A1), AR, HSP70, caspases (3 and 9) and tyrosine phosphorylation (TyrPho) proteins were investigated.

RESULTS

TMP extract improved cortisol level (0.84 ± 0.02 µg/dL) and protected against the damage of reproductive tissues and sperm parameters (count [49.78 ± 3.74 million sperm/mL], viability [90.01 ± 1.17%] and precocious acrosome reaction [1.38 ± 0.48%]). Expression of testicular StAR, CYP11A1, AR and HSP70 proteins was improved. Caspase expression was decreased in treated rats. TMP increased AR expression in CS sperm. Moreover, TyrPho protein expression was corrected after TMP administration.

CONCLUSIONS

TMP seed protected against adverse reproductive parameters in CS via improvements of functionally testicular markers and reductions of apoptotic proteins. It is possible to develop the TMP beans as an alternative medicine in treating of male subfertility caused by CS.

Sperm quality and testicular histopathology of Wistar albino male rats treated with hydroethanolic extract of Cordia dichotoma fruits

CONTEXT

Cordia dichotoma Forst. (Boraginaceae) has potent pharmacological impact. Meanwhile, its effect on fertility is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates the effect of Cordia fresh fruits hydroethanolic extract on fertility.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

120 Wistar albino male rats were divided into four groups (n = 30). The first group was negative control, and the second, third, and fourth groups received 125, 250, and 500 mg extract/kg bodyweight for 56 days. After 56 days, Cordia force-feeding stopped, and all groups were kept under laboratory conditions for another month to study the recovering effect.

RESULTS

After day 56, extract at 500 mg/kg significantly reduced sperm total count, motility%, and alive%, to 47.60 ± 2.27 × 10⁶ sperm/mL, 43.33% ± 1.49, and 63.67% ± 1.19, respectively, abnormalities% increased considerably (26.67% ± 0.54), compared to the negative control. Also, significant depletion on follicle-stimulating hormone (2.66 ± 0.21 mIU/L), luteinizing hormone (1.07 ± 0.06 mIU/L), and testosterone (2.69 ± 0.13 nmol/L) level was recorded, compared to the negative control. Cordia negative effect showed on histopathological studies of testes, prostate, and seminal vesicles. Fortunately, these adverse effects of Cordia recovered remarkably after stopping administration for one month.

CONCLUSIONS

Cordia antifertility effect may be due to its hypocholesterolemic effect, where cholesterol, the steroid cycle precursor, was significantly reduced. This study can be incorporated in clinical research after being repeated on another small experimental animal, their offspring, and one large experimental animal, then going to a clinical study that we plan to do in the future.

The attenuation effect of low piperine Piper nigrum extract on doxorubicin-induced toxicity of blood chemical and immunological properties in mammary tumour rats

CONTEXT

Many natural extracts have been shown to minimize the toxicity of doxorubicin (Dox). Low piperine Piper nigrum L. (Piperaceae) extract (PFPE) is a natural extract containing many types of antioxidants that may reduce Dox toxicities.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of PFPE in attenuating the side effects of Dox.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Tumour-bearing Sprague Dawley rats were divided into five groups including normal, vehicle, 100 mg/kg BW of PFPE plus 2 mg/kg BW of Dox (P100 + Dox), 100 mg/kg BW of PFPE plus 2 mg/kg BW of Dox (P200 + Dox) and Dox. Rats were treated with Dox and/or PFPE three times/week for 4 weeks. Tumour burden, blood parameters, weight of internal organs and immunological data were investigated.

RESULTS

The addition of 200 mg/kg PFPE significantly restored the levels of AST from 174.60 ± 45.67 U/L in the Dox group near to normal levels at 109.80 ± 4.99 U/L. The combination of PFPE and Dox also decreased the levels of CXCL7, TIMP-1, sICAM-1 and l-selectin about 1.4-1.6-fold compared to Dox group. Feeding rats with 200 mg/kg BW of PFPE combination with Dox slightly increased Th1 from 161.67 ± 14.28 cells in Dox group to 200.75 ± 5.8 cells meanwhile suppressed Treg from 3088 ± 78 cells in Dox to 2561 ± 71 cells.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that PFPE ameliorated Dox toxicity in many aspects indicating the role of antioxidant and other substances in the extract on toxicity attenuation. This suggested the using of PFPE may be valuable for Dox treated patients.

The efficacy of henna (Lawsonia inermis L.) mouthwash versus chlorhexidine gluconate 0.2% mouthwash as adjuvant therapy of oral lichen planus: A randomized double-blind clinical trial

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In modern medicine, some traditional remedies are introduced to be effective in treatment. Accordingly, the henna plant (Lawsonia inermis L.) is studied more than before. Previous studies have shown many medical properties for henna, such as anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a common mucocutaneous disease with chronic immunomodulatory disruptions. Topical corticosteroids are the first line of OLP treatment. Previous studies have suggested different adjunctive therapies for preventing the side effects of corticosteroids overuse. This study aimed to compare the effects of henna and chlorhexidine mouthwashes as adjunctive therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This parallel-group, double-blind, randomized controlled study was conducted on forty OLP patients. Luteolin content was determined in Henna mouthwash composed of 2% aqueous extract of henna, 2% ethanol, 10% glycerol, and 0.1% methylparaben distilled water. Henna or chlorhexidine mouthwashes were prescribed twice daily as an adjuvant to the topical corticosteroid treatment. Visual analog scale (VAS) index and Thongprasom rating were used to measure pain intensity and clinical signs of patients at days 0,7, and 14. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 26.0; SPSS). Ordinal logistic regression was used to investigate the effect of independent variables on Thongprasom and VAS scores.

RESULTS

In this clinical trial, 82.6% of the participants were women. There was no difference between the two study groups in terms of VAS scores (p = 0.404) and clinical features (p = 0.305) in the second follow-up visit. All drug regimens caused clinical signs and symptoms relief.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no significant difference between the groups receiving topical corticosteroid supplementation, neither henna mouthwash nor chlorhexidine mouthwash. The therapeutic effects of henna mouthwash in the main or adjuvant treatment of OLP need more evaluation in future research. Henna mouthwash can be a good alternative to chlorhexidine mouthwash if no side effects are reported.

Exercise and Urtica Dioica extract ameliorate mitochondrial function and the expression of cardiac muscle Nuclear Respiratory Factor 2 and Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor Gamma Coactivator 1-alpha in STZ-induced diabetic rats

INTRODUCTION

Diabetes mellitus can affect and disrupt the levels of PGC1α and NRF2 proteins in the mitochondrial biogenesis pathway. Considering the anti-diabetic properties of Urtica Dioica extract and exercise, this study aimed to investigate the beneficial effects of Urtica Dioica extract and endurance activity on PGC1α and NRF2 protein levels in the streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat heart tissue.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

58 male Wistar rats were divided into five groups (N = 12) including: healthy control (HC), diabetes control (DC), diabetes Urtica Dioica (D-UD), diabetes exercise training (DT), and diabetes exercise training Urtica Dioica (DT-UD). Diabetes was induced intraperitoneally by STZ (45 mg/kg) injection. Two weeks after the induction of diabetes, the rats were stimulated to carry out the exercise (moderate intensity/5day/week) and the gavage of UD extract (50 mg/kg/day) was administered to the rats for six weeks. In this study, the western blotting method was used to measure the levels of PGC1α and NRF2 proteins. Moreover, cardiography was used to evaluate the functional parameters of the heart (ejection fraction & fractional shortening). Finally, the bioluminescence and ELISA methods were used to determine the content of adenosine triphosphate and citrate synthase.

RESULTS

The cardiac function parameters, the mitochondrial ATP and the CS content in DC group mice were impaired in comparison with the other study groups and showed a decreasing trend (P < 0.001). The treatment with EX + UD extract was able to minimize the rate of these disorders and acted as a protector of mitochondrial function. There were significant differences in the expression levels of NRF2 (F = 17.7, P = 0.001) and PGC-1α (F = 43.7, P = 0.001) mitochondrial proteins among the different groups. The levels of these proteins were significantly reduced in the DC group in comparison with the HC group (P < 0.001). The treatment with EX or UD extract increased the expression of PGC-1α and NRF2 proteins in the heart muscle of animals in the DT and D-UD groups in comparison with the DC group (P < 0.05). Moreover, the expression of these proteins was more pronounced in the DT-UD group. There was not a significant difference between the DT-UD group and the HC group regarding the expression of these proteins (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study showed that treatment with EX and UD extract could treat the disorders which were caused by diabetes in the parameters of cardiac function. Moreover, it was able to improve the expression of the levels of proteins which were involved in mitochondrial biogenesis and its function. Finally, this kind of treatment could attract more attention to the roles of EX and UD extract in the prevention of cardiovascular complications in future studies.

Ethanolic extract from Lepidium virginicum L. ameliorates DNBS-induced colitis in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Lepidium virginicum L. (Brassicaceae) is a plant widely used in traditional Mexican medicine as an expectorant, diuretic, and as a remedy to treat diarrhea and dysentery, infection-derived gastroenteritis. However, there is no scientific study that validates its clinical use as an anti-inflammatory in the intestine.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory properties of the ethanolic extract of Lepidium virginicum L. (ELv) in an animal model of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)-like colitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The 2,4-dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS) animal model of IBD was used. Colitis was induced by intrarectal instillation of 200 mg/kg of DNBS dissolved vehicle, 50% ethanol. Control rats only received the vehicle. Six hours posterior to DNBS administration, ELv (3, 30, or 100 mg/kg) was administered daily by gavage or intraperitoneal injection. The onset and course of the inflammatory response were monitored by assessing weight loss, stool consistency, and fecal blood. Colonic damage was evaluated by colon weight/length ratio, histopathology, colonic myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), chemokine C-X-C motif ligand 1 (CXCL-1), and interleukin-6 (IL-6).

RESULTS

Rats treated with DNBS displayed significant weight loss, diarrhea, fecal blood, colon shortening, a significant increase in immune cell infiltration and MPO activity, as well as increased proinflammatory cytokine expression. Intraperitoneal administration of ELv significantly reduced colon inflammation, whereas oral treatment proved to be ineffective. In fact, intraperitoneal ELv significantly attenuated the clinical manifestations of colitis, immune cell infiltration, MPO activity, and pro-inflammatory (CXCL-1, TNF-α, and IL-1β) gene expression in a dose-dependent manner.

CONCLUSION

Traditional medicine has employed ELv as a remedy for common infection-derived gastrointestinal symptoms; however, we hereby present the first published study validating its anti-inflammatory properties in the mitigation of DNBS-induced colitis.

Cajanus cajan ameliorated CCl4-induced oxidative stress in Wistar rats via the combined mechanisms of anti-inflammation and mitochondrial-membrane transition pore inhibition

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Liver diseases is a public health issue in sub-saharan Africa and has been reported to be the major cause of many hospital admissions. Oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and inflammation play important roles in several diseases including liver injury. Cajanus cajan is an indigenous medicinal plant useful in the traditional treatment of jaundice, inflammation and liver injury.

AIM OF STUDY

This study assessed the effects of methanol extract Cajanus cajan (MECC) on mitochondrial permeability transition (mPT) pore opening, biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation in CCl_4-induced liver injury in rats.

METHODS

Wistar albino rats (200-210g) were completely randomized into five (5) groups of six animals each. Group I (control) was given distilled water orally once daily. Animals in group II were administered CCl₄ in parafin (1:1) at a dose of 0.5 mL/kg i.p on the seventh day. Animals in groups III, IV and V were administered methanol extract of Cajanus cajan (MECC) at doses of 100, 200 mg/kg and silymarin (100 mg/kg) respectively for 7 days prior to a single intraperitoneal dose of CCl₄. After 24 h of CCl₄ treatment, serum and liver tissues were collected. Mitochondrial permeability transition (mPT) pore opening, mitochondrial ATPase activities and biomarkers of oxidative stress were determined spectrophotometrically. Tumor necrosis factor (TNFα), NF-κB and COX-2 were determined by immunohistochemistry and the phytochemicals present in the extract were determined by GC-MS.

RESULTS

Liver enzyme (AST, ALP, ALT and γGT) activities and MDA levels were significantly decreased in rats pretreated with MECC at the dose of 100, 200 and silymarin (100 mg/kg) when compared to the rats administered CCl₄ alone (p < 0.05). GSH, GST, CAT and SOD increased and the expressions of TNFα, NF-κB and COX- 2 were also reduced when compared to the CCl₄- treated animals. In addition, the liver histopathological analyses revealed that MECC markedly alleviated inflammatory cell infiltration, hepatic fibrosis, hepatocyte ballooning, necrosis and severe apoptosis of hepatocytes induced by CCl₄. GC-MS analysis yielded 23 compounds including flavonoids, terpenoids and fatty acids.

CONCLUSION

Cajanus cajan leaf extract elicited hepatoprotective action on CCl₄-induced liver injury via inhibition of mPT pore opening, prevention of CCl₄-induced hepatic oxidative stress and suppression of inflammatory response thus it may become useful for chemoprevention of liver injury. This supports its traditional use.

Beneficial effects of roots of Argyreia nervosa (Brum.f.) Bojer on testosterone biosynthesis in testis and spermatogenesis in Wistar rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Roots of Argyreia nervosa (Burm.f.) Bojer is used traditionally as an aphrodisiac and mentioned in the indigenous system of medicine as spermatogenic. The roots of the plant are also used as bitter, tonic, and alternative.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To study the effect of n-butanol fraction (BTF) and ethyl acetate fraction (ETF) of methanol extract prepared from the roots of Argyreia nervosa and scopoletin isolated from ETF on testosterone biosynthesis in testis and spermatogenesis using rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effect of BTF, ETF, and scopoletin on the testosterone biosynthesis was evaluated by determining the alteration in expression of mRNA corresponding to steroidogenic enzymes and concentration of testosterone using TM-3 cell line. The ability of BTF and ETF in altering the level of testicular cholesterol and testosterone along with mRNA expression corresponding to 3β-Hydroxy-Δ⁵-steroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) and Acute Steroid Regulatory Protein (StAR) was evaluated using rats as experimental animals. The sperm concentration in the seminal fluid was determined, and histological studies of testicular tissues were also carried out.

RESULTS

Test solutions containing BTF, ETF, and scopoletin showed a dose-dependent and statistically significant increase in the testosterone content when incubated with TM-3 cells. The test solutions also increased the fold expression of mRNA corresponding to StAR and 3β-HSD enzymes from TM-3 cells. BTF and ETF elevated testicular testosterone levels by 3.57 and 3.84-fold as compared to control animals, while the fractions showed 9.04 and 10.41-fold alteration in expression of mRNA corresponding to StAR, respectively. BTF and ETF altered the expression of mRNA corresponding to 3β-HSD by 13.43 and 15.04-fold in testicular tissues; moreover, they elevated the activity of 3β-HSD by 7.11 and 7.73 fold, respectively. The animals treated with BTF and ETF showed increased sperm concentration. Histological observations showed that the lumen of seminiferous tubules was densely populated with spermatozoa and Leydig cells were intensely stained. Extract prepared from fruits of Tribulus terrestris Linn and testosterone served as positive controls.

CONCLUSION

BTF, ETF, and scopoletin could promote testosterone biosynthesis by elevating mRNA expression corresponding to StAR, 3β-HSD, and by increasing 3β-HSD activity in the testicular tissues. Elevated testosterone concentration in testis promoted spermatogenesis. The studies provided the probable mechanism through which the roots of A. nervosa act as spermatogenic.

Paeonia lactiflora extract improves the muscle function of mdx mice, an animal model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, via downregulating the high mobility group box 1 protein

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Paeonia lactiflora Pall. is an ethnopharmacological medicine with a long history of human use for treating various inflammatory diseases in many Asian countries.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked degenerative muscle disease affecting 1 in 3500 males and is characterized by severe muscle inflammation and a progressive decline in muscle function. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of an ethanol extract of the root of Paeonia lactiflora Pall. (PL) on the muscle function in the muscular dystrophy X-linked (mdx) mouse, the most commonly used animal model of DMD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male mdx mice and wild-type controls aged 5 weeks were orally treated with PL for 4 weeks. The corticosteroid prednisolone was used as a comparator drug. Muscle strength and motor coordination were assessed via the grip-strength and rotarod tests, respectively. Muscle damage was evaluated via histological examination and assessment of plasma creatine-kinase activity. Proteomic analyses were conducted to identify the muscle proteins whose levels were significantly affected by PL (ProteomeXchange identifier: PXD028886). Muscle and plasma levels of these proteins, and their corresponding mRNAs were measured using western blotting and ELISA, and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, respectively.

RESULTS

The muscle strength and motor coordination of mdx mice were significantly increased by the oral treatment of PL. PL significantly reduced the histological muscle damage and plasma creatine-kinase activity. Proteomic analyses of the muscle showed that PL significantly downregulated the high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein and Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4, thus suppressing the HMGB1-TLR4-NF-κB signaling, in the muscle of mdx mice. Consequently, the muscle levels of proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines, which play crucial roles in inflammation, were downregulated.

CONCLUSION

PL improves the muscle function and reduces the muscle damage in mdx mice via suppressing the HMGB1-TLR4-NF-κB signaling and downregulating proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines.

Investigation of the chemical structure of anti-amyloidogenic constituents extracted from Thamnolia vermicularis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Thamnolia vermicularis (Sw.) Schaer (T. vermicularis) is known to have therapeutic effects on various diseases in Southwest China. Recent research has highlighted that T. vermicularis may suppress Aβ level and Tau hyperphosphorylation to improve the pathological characteristics of Alzheimer's disease, indicating that it might have the potential to treat Alzheimer's disease.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The objective of this study was to evaluate the inhibitory effect of T. vermicularis on the fibril formation of a typical amyloidogenic protein, hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL), and to identify the effective components that could potentially enable an extract of T. vermicularis to be used in the development of novel therapeutic agents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A water extract was prepared from T. vermicularis (TVWE) and its inhibitory effect on amyloid fibrillation in vitro was investigated using thioflavin T and 8-anilinonapthalene-1-sulfonic acid spectrofluorometric analyses. The anti-amyloidogenic components of TVWE were separated and qualitatively analyzed using thin layer chromatography (TLC), supercritical carbon dioxide extraction (SFE-CO₂), and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Finally, the effect of the bioactive components on the structure of HEWL in the early stages of fibrillogenesis was determined by molecular docking simulation.

RESULTS

TVWE strongly inhibited the ability of HEWL to form an amyloid fibril, yielding an IC₅₀ of 0.018 mg/mL for the inhibition of fibrillogenesis. The chemical constituents in the various TVWE fractions resolved by TLC were qualitatively identified by liquid chromatography-quadrupole/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-Q-TOF-MS). The target components were predicted by reviewing the existing literature on T. vermicularis, in which the components of T. vermicularis, along with three small molecules (molecular weight: 182) were preliminarily identified. Molecular docking simulation showed that these small molecules were bound to the core region of HEWL, affecting its stability. Finally, the active anti-amyloidogenic components were extracted from whole T. vermicularis using SFE-CO₂ and then identified.

CONCLUSION

The potential components of TVWE that could prevent HEWL fibrillogenesis were primarily identified using TLC, LC-Q-TOF-MS, and SFE-CO2. The candidate small-molecule compounds were further predicted by combining the LC-Q-TOF-MS results with molecular docking analysis. The effective components of T. vermicularis were extracted using SFE-CO₂. Together, these methods could constitute a practical strategy for the isolation and identification of anti-amyloidogenic components from a traditional Chinese medicine.

Combination of molecular docking and liver transcription sequencing analysis for the evaluation of salt-processed psoraleae fructus-induced hepatotoxicity in ovariectomized mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Salt-processed Psoraleae fructus (SPF) is widely used as a phytoestrogen-like agent in the treatment of osteoporosis. However, SPF-associated hepatotoxicity is a known health hazard. Cholestasis is often associated with SPF-induced hepatotoxicity. Notably, clinical liver injury is a common side effect of SPF in the treatment of osteoporosis; however, the exact mechanism underlying this phenomenon is unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate SPF-induced hepatotoxicity in an ovariectomized murine model of estrogen deficiency and examine the mechanisms underlying this process.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To explore the molecular mechanism of SPF-induced cholestatic liver injury, different concentrations of SPF (5 and 10 g/kg) were intragastrically administered to ovariectomized and non-ovariectomized female ICR mice for 30 days.

RESULTS

SPF-treated mice showed noticeably swollen hepatocytes, dilated bile ducts, and elevated levels of serum biochemical markers. Compared to ovariectomized mice, these changes were more prominent in non-ovariectomized mice. According to the sequence data, a total of 6689 mRNAs were identified. Compared with the control group, 1814 differentially expressed mRNAs were identified in the group treated with high SPF doses (SPHD), including 939 upregulated and 875 downregulated mRNAs. Molecular docking and Western blot experiments showed that liver injury was closely related to the estrogen levels. Compared with the negative control group, the expression levels of FXR, Mrp2, CYP7a1, BSEP, SULT1E1, HNF4a, and Nrf2 decreased in the estradiol-treated (E2), low-dose SPF-treated (SPLD), and SPHD groups. Interestingly, the expression levels of FXR, CYP7a1, SULT1E1, and HNF4α were significantly higher in the ovariectomized groups than in the non-ovariectomized groups (#P < 0.05; ###P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, this study demonstrates that SPF downregulates key enzymes involved in cholesterol and bile acid biosyntheses, posing a risk for cholestatic liver injury. SPF also regulates the FXR-SULT1E signaling pathway via HNF4α, which is an important causative factor of cholestasis. Moreover, the severity of liver damage was significantly lower in the ovariectomized groups than in the non-ovariectomized group. These results suggest that the estrogen level is the most critical factor determining liver injury.

Saponins and flavonoids from Bacopa floribunda plant extract exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on amyloid beta 1-42-induced Alzheimer's disease in BALB/c mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Bacopa floribunda (BF), a locally available plant has been employed traditionally as memory enhancer in Southwestern, Nigeria. It has been utilized in traditional and Ayurvedic medicine as brain tonic for enhancing memory, anti-aging and forestalling series of psychological disorders. However, there is a dearth of scientific information on the mechanism(s) of action of important phytochemicals from BF extract on dementia.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Alzheimer's disease, the commonest form of dementia has been postulated to triple by 2050 as a result of increase in life expectancy. This study therefore assessed and compared the possible mechanism(s) of action of flavonoids and saponins from BF on Amyloid beta (Aβ1-42)-induced dementia in male BALB/c mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighty (80) healthy BALB/c mice divided into 10 groups (n = 8) were given a single bilateral ICV injection of Aβ1-42 or normal saline. Graded doses of Saponins and flavonoids (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) were used as treatment for 21 days. Hippocampal homogenates were assayed for the levels of antioxidants, oxidative stress and neuroinflammatory markers. In vitro antioxidant activity of flavonoids and saponins were equally assessed using standard procedures. The extent of microglial activation was quantified through immunohistochemistry procedure.

RESULTS

Aβ1-42 successfully caused a spike in hippocampal levels of MDA, IL1β, TNF-α including MPO levels and invariably decreased antioxidant activities. Likewise an increase in reactive microglia (microgliosis) was observed. However, crude saponins and flavonoids from BF were able to suppress microgliosis, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation induced by Aβ1- 42 and were observed to be more effective at higher doses of saponins (100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg) and flavonoid (100 mg/kg).

CONCLUSIONS

Phytochemicals from BF efficiently exhibited dose dependent alleviation of some symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Identification of galangin as the bioactive compound from Alpinia calcarata (Haw.) Roscoe rhizomes to inhibit IRAK-1/ MAPK/ NF-κB p65 and JAK-1 signaling in LPS stimulated RAW 264.7 cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Alpinia calcarata (Haw.) Roscoe rhizomes are used to treat diabetes, rheumatism, gastrointestinal problems, inflammatory diseases, cough and respiratory problems in traditional practices. The primary objective of the study is to identify and isolate anti-inflammatory bioactive compounds from A.calcarata rhizomes and to assess its molecular mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The bioassay-guided fractionation of methanolic extract of A. calcarata rhizomes yielded chloroform fraction as the effective fraction and galangin as the bioactive compound identified by NMR studies. The anti-inflammatory action of galangin was evaluated by determining NO and cytokine production in LPS stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Further, its mechanism was studied on the expression levels of mRNA and protein targets by qPCR and Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

Based on the MTT assay, the concentration of 3.1-25 μM of galangin was selected for further studies. Galangin reduced the levels of NO and proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6) production in LPS induced RAW 264.7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, the qPCR analysis revealed a reduction in the mRNA expression levels of COX-2, IRAK 1 and JAK 1 in galangin treated LPS stimulated RAW 264.7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Western blot analysis implicated that galangin has markedly reduced the protein expression levels of cell signaling regulators (JAK-1, IRAK-1, MyD88, MAPK (p38 and ERK) and NF-κB p65).

CONCLUSION

From the results, it is evident that the inhibition of these cell signaling regulators has contributed to the anti-inflammatory effects of galangin. To our knowledge, we are the first to report IRAK-1 and JAK-1 as therapeutic targets of galangin for its anti-inflammatory effect.

Therapeutic effect of Patrinia villosa on TNBS-induced ulcerative colitis via metabolism, vitamin D receptor and NF-κB signaling pathways

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the colon. Patrinia villosa Juss. (P.V) is an important traditional Chinese medicine widely used for more than 2000 years from ShenNongBenCaoJing, a famous ancient Chinese medicinal literary. P.V is often used in the treatment of UC, but the pathogenesis is not clear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was designed to analysis the metabolic pathways and relevant mechanisms of P.V on UC rats induced by TNBS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The rat model of UC was established by 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)/ethanol method. Three doses of P.V (21 g/kg, 43 g/kg, 64 g/kg) were administrated for 14 days. Disease activity index (DAI) scoring system and H&E staining were used to evaluate the efficacy. A method for simultaneous detection of 96 endogenous metabolic components was established by UPLC-MS. The method was used to detect the metabolites in serum and liver of rats with UC induced by TNBS. PLS-DA and Metaboanalyst were used to analyze the main metabolic pathways involved in the treatment of UC. The contents of IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6 in the colonic homogenate of rats were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expression levels of VDR, NF-κB, p-NF-κB, NLRP3 and caspase-1 in colon tissues of rats were detected by the method of Western blot.

RESULTS

DAI scoring system and H&E staining indicated that P.V have the obvious therapeutic effect on UC induced by TNBS as a dosage-dependent manner. 36 potential biomarkers in serum and 26 potential biomarkers in liver were found in positive and negative ion mode of UPLC-MS, which significantly affected Glycine, serine and threonine metabolism, Glycerophospholipid metabolism, Purine metabolism, Histidine metabolism, Alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism, Arginine and proline metabolism in serum, and significantly affected Purine metabolism, Lycine, serine and threonine metabolism, Glutathione metabolism, Glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism in the liver. The contents of pro-inflammatory cytokines and receptors related to NF-κB signaling axis of model group were significantly higher than those of the control group, compared with the model group, their contents of the P.V group were significantly decreased (p < 0.01). Compared with the model group, the expression of NF-κB, p-NF-κB, NLRP3 and caspase-1 in colon tissues of the rats in P.V group were significantly decreased (p < 0.01). The expression of VDR in model group were significantly reduced compared to that in the control group, compared with the model group, the expression of VDR in P.V group were significantly increased (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

P.V has an obvious therapeutic effect on UC induced by TNBS by regulating the energy metabolism, amino acid metabolism, purine metabolism, bile acid metabolism and lipid metabolism. P.V exerts anti-inflammatory effect by impacting bile acid levels, activating VDR, and inhibiting the overactivation of NF-κB signaling pathways.

The effectiveness of Salvianolate injection for in-stent restenosis after percutaneous coronary intervention: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

In-stent restenosis (ISR) caused by vascular remodeling after percutaneous coronary intervention limits the long-term efficacy of this method. Salvianolate injection is now widely used in the clinical treatment of ISR. However, there is no systematic review or meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of Salvianolate injection on ISR.

METHODS

We will search articles in 8 electronic databases, including the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, Embase, the Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, Wanfang Database, and the Chinese Scientific Journal Database for randomized controlled trials of ISR treated by Salvianolate injection from their inception to February 27, 2022. The primary outcome measure will be the restenosis rate. The data meeting the inclusion criteria were analyzed by RevMan V.5.4 software. Two authors evaluated the study using the Cochrane collaborative risk bias tool. We will use a scoring method to assess the overall evidence supporting the main results.

RESULTS

This study will analyze the clinical effectiveness of Salvianolate injection in the treatment of ISR.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this systematic review will provide evidence to evaluate the effectiveness of Salvianolate injection for the treatment of ISR.

INPLASY REGISTRATION NUMBER

INPLASY202220117.

Antiplasmodial diterpenoid alkaloid from Aconitum heterophyllum Wall. ex Royle: Isolation, characterization, and UHPLC-DAD based quantification

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Aconitum heterophyllum Wall. ex Royle is a traditionally important medicinal plant having numerous therapeutic actions as documented in Ayurveda. This plant is traditionally known for combating worm infestation, fever, respiratory tract disease, vomiting, diarrhoea, diabetes, skin disorders, anaemia, and joint disorders. Further, it has been used alone and in combination with other plants to prepare various anti-malarial formulations. However, there is no report on the assessment of its anti-plasmodial activity, and the metabolite(s) responsible for this activity.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The main aim of this study was to conduct phytochemical investigation of A. heterophyllum roots for the preparation of extract, fractions, and isolation of pure molecules to identify active fractions/molecules responsible for the anti-plasmodial activity, and development of UHPLC-DAD based analytical method which can be used for the quantification of marker compounds in the extracts and fractions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Hydroalcoholic extract (1:1 v/v) and fractions (n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, n-butanol, and water) were prepared from the dried powdered roots of A. heterophyllum. Fractions were further subjected to silica gel column chromatography to isolate pure specialized secondary metabolites from this plant. All extracts, fractions, and pure molecules were evaluated against the chloroquine resistant Pf INDO and chloroquine sensitive Pf3D7 strains in culture for calculating their IC₅₀ values. UHPLC-DAD based analytical method was also developed for the first time for the quantification of marker compounds and quality assessment of this commercially important Himalayan medicinal plant.

RESULTS

Phytochemical investigation of A. heterophyllum root led to the isolation of six specialized metabolites viz. 2-O-cinnamoyl hetisine (1), atisinium (2), 4-oxabicyclo [3.2.2] nona-1(7),5,8-triene (3), atisinium cinnamate (4), aconitic acid (5), and atisinium formate (6). Compound 1 is a new hetisine type diterpenoid alkaloid, compounds 4 and 6 are new counter ionic forms observed with atisinium ion, and compound 3 is being reported for the first time from this genus. Chloroform fraction was found to be the most active with IC₅₀ (μg/mL) 1.01 (Pf INDO) and 1.32 (Pf3D7). The molecule 2-O-cinnamoyl hetisine (1), a new diterpenoid alkaloid isolated from chloroform fraction, showed promising antiplasmodial activities with IC₅₀ (μM) 1.92 (Pf INDO) and 10.8 (Pf 3D7). The activity of chloroform fraction was further validated by the developed UHPLC-DAD based method as the quantity of 2-O-cinnamoyl hetisine (1) was higher in the chloroform fraction (≅200 mg/g) than in all other fractions (<7 mg/g). Atisinium (2) and 2-O-cinnamoyl hetisine (1) were found to be the main marker compounds of this plant based on quantity and antiplasmodial activity, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study provides the scientific rationale for the traditional use of this plant in treating malaria. Further, this study revealed that the anti-malarial potential of this plant might be due to the presence of diterpenoid alkaloids.

Efficacy of herbal anti-microbial soap in Tinea corporis: A randomized controlled study

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Curcuma longa L., Azadirachta indica A Juss. Cassia tora L. has been used in Unani medicine for various skin ailments. Several researches have been conducted on these plants which have shown anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, antiviral, anti-oxidant, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and immune modulation activities. Skin diseases and the use of these drugs are mentioned in classical Unani literature like The Canon of medicine, Continens Liber, Hippocratic treatments, The Complete Book of the Medical Art etc. AIM: The aim of the study was to formulate anti-microbial soap and to evaluate its clinical efficacy of in the management of Tinea corporis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The anti-microbial soap was prepared by hydroalcholic extracts of Curcuma longa L., Azadirachta indica A Juss. and Cassia tora L. The prepared soap was evaluated for various physicochemical parameters, microbiological evaluation, stability study, skin irritation, In-vitro anti-microbial activity, GCMS analysis, and a clinical trial was carried out to evaluate its efficacy. A Single Blind Randomized Placebo Controlled trail on 30 patients aged between 18 and 60 years of either gender was carried out. The participants were randomly allocated to receive either anti-microbial soap or Placebo soap for 4 weeks. Subjective parameters including erythema, pruritis and desquamation were assessed weekly while as objective parameter including Photograph of lesion, Total Symptom Score (TSS) and KOH mount was assessed at baseline and at the end of the trial.

RESULTS

The improvement in subjective parameters was found significant in test group. Erythema, scaling, and desquamation was completely relieved by 70%, 80% and 25% patients respectively in test group while as none of the patients got complete relief in control group. There was statistically significant reduction in average TSS 8.65 ± 0.6708 to 3.05 ± 1.35 p < 0.001. KOH mount turned negative in 80% patients in test group while as only 20% turned negative in control group.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that Unani drugs can be utilized in better way by modifying into a convenient dosage form. Anti-microbial soap was formulated by adding minimal additives to achieve effectiveness, with cost effective benefits and less or no side effects. Anti-microbial soap was effective in management of management of Tinea corporis. Moreover further studies on large sample size are required to fine-tune these observations.

Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels extracts; in vivo anti-nociceptive, anti-inflammatory, acute and subacute toxicity assessment

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels has been extensively used in the ancient medical system of Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka to combat diabetes, inflammation, and renal disorders. These health-promoting aspects of S. cumini are related to bioactive metabolites such as phenolic acids, anthocyanins, tannins, and flavonoids.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Earlier to this study, we have reported S. cumini extracts as potential sources of bioactive compounds bearing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, prior further suggesting S. cumini fruit extracts for consumption against inflammatory disorders, it was mandatory to validate the claim and explore toxicity of the extracts. This study aims to determine the in vivo anti-nociceptive, anti-inflammatory, acute, and subacute toxicity properties of S. cumini crude extracts, followed by identifying and quantifying bioactive metabolites.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In the present study, the anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory potential of S. cumini sequential crude extracts were evaluated using formalin and glutamate-induced paw licking method in mice. The acute and sub-acute toxicity assessment of active extract was performed by oral administration in rats. An acute toxicity trial was performed with two different doses, i.e., 2000 mg/kg and 3000 mg/kg for consecutive 14 days, whereas a sub-acute toxicity study was conducted at doses of 750 mg/kg and 1500 mg/kg for the next 28 days. Identification of bioactive compounds was performed using HPLC, and at the end, in silico docking calculations of identified compounds were performed.

RESULTS

The 100% methanolic extract (SCME) protected the mice from painful stimulation of formalin and glutamate in a dose-dependent manner with the maximum effect of 49% and 67% at 200 mg/kg, respectively, followed by moderate and non-influential effects of 50% methanolic extract and dichloromethane (DCM) extracts when compared to control, i.e., normal saline. The results of acute toxicity recorded LD₅₀ of SCME over 3000 mg/kg, and no antagonistic effects were recorded during the subacute study when SCME dispensed at the rate of 750 mg/kg and 1500 mg/kg. SCME was found to induce no adverse effects to kidney, heart, liver, spleen, and paired lungs examined by hematological, serum biochemical, histological analysis. HPLC analysis of S. cumini 100% methanolic extracts revealed the presence of delphinidin 3-glucoside, peonidin-3,5-diglucoside, scopoletin, and umbelliferone at the concentration of 127.4, 2104, 31.3, 10.4 μg/g whereas in 50% methanolic extract, the quinic acid, catechin, and myricetin were present at the concentration of 54.9, 63.7, 12.3 μg/g, respectively. Umbelliferone and scopoletin are newly reported compounds in the present study. In silico docking calculations of these compounds indicated the potential of anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings validate that S. cumini fruit extracts are a rich source of bioactive compounds that needs to be considered to enhance biological activities with lesser side effects.

Ethnopharmacological nexus between the traditional Thai medicine theory and biologically based cancer treatment

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The two major theories utilized for diagnosis and treatment in Traditional Thai Medicine (TTM) are the Four Element Theory and the Herbal Flavor Theory. A TTM "Poh-Pu" Remedy has been effectively utilized in Thailand for cancer therapy for centuries.

AIMS OF STUDY

To investigate anti-inflammatory activity and liver cancer cytotoxicity of Poh-Pu remedy. To determine relationships between the TTM Herbal Flavor theory and the Four Element theory and total flavonoid content and biological activities of Poh-Pu Remedy plant extracts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Each plant ingredient was macerated with 95% ethanol. The extracts were investigated for cytotoxic activity against liver cancer using a sulforhodamine B assay, and anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated by inhibition of nitric oxide production. The total flavonoid content was determined by an aluminum chloride colorimetric assay. The relationships between the TTM theories, total flavonoid content, and biological activities were evaluated by correlation and cluster analysis.

RESULTS

Mammea siamensis exerted potent cytotoxicity against hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cell lines with an IC₅₀ of 3.15 ± 0.16 μg/mL and low cytotoxicity to the non-cancerous cells (HaCat) with an IC₅₀ 33.39 ± 0.40 μg/mL (Selective index (SI) = 10.6). Tiliacora triandra was selectively cytotoxic to cholangiocarcinama (KKU-M156) cells with an IC₅₀ of 12.65 ± 0.92 μg/mL (SI = 6.4). Curcuma comosa was the most potent anti-inflammatory inhibitor of nitric oxide production with an IC₅₀ of 2.75 ± 0.34 μg/mL. Campomanesia aromatica exhibited the highest total flavonoid content of 259.7 ± 3.21 mg quercetin equivalent/g. Pungent plants were most prevalent in the TTM remedy.

CONCLUSION

Pungent, fragrant, bitter and nauseating plants utilized in TTM cancer remedy were successfully investigated and identified several lead plants and components with cytotoxic and antiinflammatory activity that require further study. The TTM wind element theory appeared to be aligned with cancer-related activity. Biological activity results of taste from herbs related with The TTM Herbal Flavor theory. The extra-oral locations of flavor receptors are a promising target for biological activity of TTM which require further scrutiny and identified several lead plants and components with cytotoxic and antiinflammatory activities that also require further study.

Anticonvulsant effects of Cymbopogon giganteus extracts with possible effects on fully kindled seizures and anxiety in experimental rodent model of mesio-temporal epilepsy induced by pilocarpine

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder of the brain characterized by periodic and unpredictable occurrence of a transient behavior alteration due to the rhythmic, synchronous and disordered firing of brain neuron. Worldwide, approximately 50 million people currently live with epilepsy and close to 80% of people with epilepsy live in poor countries. However, it was noticed in many countries worldwide that people with epilepsy and their families suffer from stigma and discrimination and that situation exposes them to high psychological conditions such as depression and anxiety as well as more physical problems including bruising and fractures from injuries related to seizures. However, several plants-based products used for epilepsy and anxiety treatments in different system of folk medicine have exhibited a significant anti-epileptic and antianxiety activities using animal models with fewer side effects.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The study aimed at evaluating the antiepileptic, status post-epilepticus and anxiolytic effects of Cymbopogon giganteus decoction in rat model induced by pilocarpine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 90 rats were partitioned into 7 groups and treated as follow: animals of groups I (normal control) and II (considered the negative control) received distilled water (10 mL/kg); while groups III, IV, V, and VI were treated with the C. giganteus extract at 34, 85, 170 and 340 mg/kg p.o, respectively; and the group VII (considered positive control) received sodium valproate at 300 mg/kg, i.p. After 40 min post-treatment, a single dose of n-methyl-scopolamine (1 mg/kg, i.p) was administered to animals of groups (II, III, IV, V, VI, VII) followed by pilocarpine (360 mg/kg, i.p). Animal of group I (normal group) received distilled water. Rats were further observed for 6 h to evaluate the severity and the duration of the acute seizures of epilepsy according to Racine scale. Anxious behavior status post-epilepticus was also assessed in the same rats used above in the Elevated Plus Maze and number of entries into the open or closed arms and the time spent on either open or closed arms of the platform were recorded. Animals were also evaluated on Open Field Test and the number of rearing, crossing, grooming, defecation and center time were registered.

RESULTS

C. giganteus decoction significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the animal mortality, the number and duration of convulsions and effectively increased the latency of convulsions. The plant extract significantly (P < 0.05) improved GSH level and SOD activity, reduced MDA and CAT activity, increased GABA level and decreased GABA-t activity in hippocampus. The anxiety induced by pilocarpine was also significantly (P < 0.05) inhibited by the extract of the plant.

CONCLUSIONS

Thus, C. giganteus has demonstrated its antiepileptic and anxiolytic activities in rat model and may be used as preventive measure for patients suffering from epilepsy seizures and anxiety.

Preclinical evaluation of Zanthoxylum piperitum Benn., traditional muscle pain remedy, for joint inflammation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zanthoxylum piperitum has been used as a traditional Asian medicine to treat hypertension, stroke, bruise and muscle pain. It has been known to induce detoxification; affect anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, and tyrosinase activity; inhibit osteosarcoma proliferation; anti-osteoarthritis inflammation. In this study, we aim to identify the therapeutic effect of Z. piperitum 90% EtOH extract (ZPE-LR) on rheumatoid arthritis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We investigated the anti-rheumatoid arthritis and -immunomodulatory activities of the ZPE-LR in collagen-induced arthritic (CIA) mice, a rheumatoid arthritis animal model. In order to assess the analgesic effects of ZPE-LR in vivo, acetic acid injection, formaldehyde injection, hot plate model was used. The mechanism for anti-inflammatory activity of ZPE-LR was identified with LPS-stimulated Raw 264.7 cells.

RESULTS

Pharmacologically, oral administration of ZPE-LR into CIA mice resulted in a significant and dose-dependent decrease in clinical arthritis score and paw swelling compared to untreated negative control. Pathologic examination showed that ZPE-LR prevented morphological change in cartilage and destruction of phalanges in CIA mice. This protective effect was associated with reduced pain, inflammatory mediators such as NO, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, as well as COX-2 and iNOS expression. Furthermore, reduction of phosphor-ERK and BDNF indicates a novel rheumatoid arthritis-regulating mechanism by ZPE-LR treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that the administration of ZPE-LR remarkably inhibited CIA progression and might be helpful in suppressing inflammation and pain in rheumatoid arthritis.

Zataria multiflora extract influenced asthmatic patients by improving respiratory symptoms, pulmonary function tests and lung inflammation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects of Zataria multiflora Boiss (Z. multiflora) were reported in previous studies which is using in traditional and modern medicine. This plant is traditional used as an anti-tussive agent and for the management of respiratory disorders.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The preventive effect of the extract of leaves and stems of Z. multiflora on respiratory symptoms, pulmonary function tests, hematological indices, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), level of interleukin-10 (IL-10) in the serum and supernatant of cultured peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and gene expression of IL-10 in these cells in asthmatic patients was studied.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

36 asthmatic patients in three groups (randomly divided) of placebo group (P), two groups treated with 5 and 10 mg/kg/day doses of Z. multiflora (Z5 and Z10) for two months completed the study. Drugs were administered double-blindly and different variables were assessed before and after (one and two months) starting treatment including respiratory symptoms, pulmonary function tests (PFT), hematological indices, hs-CRP, serum and supernatant levels as well as gene expression of IL-10.

RESULTS

Two months treatment with Z5 and Z10 led to significant reduction of respiratory symptoms (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). Pulmonary function test values in treated groups were also significantly increased two months after starting treatment (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). Total WBC, monocytes and eosinophils were also decreased in treated groups with the extract at the end of study period (p < 0.05 to p < 0.01). Hemoglobin and hematocrit in Z10 treated group (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) in both treated groups (p < 0.05 to p < 0.01) were significantly reduced. In addition, the level of hs-CRP in both treated groups was significantly reduced after two months (p < 0.05 to p < 0.01). IL-10 concentration in Z10 treated group in supernatant of PBMC was also significantly enhanced (p < 0.01). All comparisons were made compared to the baseline (beginning of the treatment) values.

CONCLUSION

Z. multiflora improved respiratory symptoms and increased pulmonary function tests in asthmatic patients. In addition, the plant was effective in decrement of inflammatory cells and hs-CRP as well as enhanced IL-10. Therefore, the plant showed possible preventive therapeutic effect on asthma.

An acute dose-ranging evaluation of the antidepressant properties of Sceletium tortuosum (Zembrin®) versus escitalopram in the Flinders Sensitive Line rat

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sceletium tortuosum (L.) N.E.Br. (ST) has been used by the Khoisan people of South Africa as a mood elevator. Its various pharmacological mechanisms of action suggest distinct potential as an antidepressant. Clinical studies in healthy individuals suggest beneficial effects on mood, cognition, and anxiety.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To obtain a chromatographic fingerprint of a standardized extract of S. tortuosum (Zembrin®), and to evaluate the acute antidepressant-like properties of Zembrin® versus the reference antidepressant, escitalopram, in the Flinders Sensitive Line (FSL) rat, a genetic rodent model of depression.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The chemical profile of Zembrin® was determined by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS) chromatogram method using alkaloid standards. Twelve saline treated FSL and six Flinders Resistant Line (FRL) control rats were used to confirm face validity of the FSL model using the forced swim test (FST). Thereafter, FSL rats (n = 10) received either 5, 10, 25, 50 or 100 mg/kg of Zembrin®, or 5, 10 or 20 mg/kg escitalopram oxalate (ESC), both via oral gavage, and subjected to the open field test (OFT) and FST.

RESULTS

Four main ST alkaloids were identified and quantified in Zembrin® viz. mesembrenone, mesembrenol, mesembrine, and mesembranol (47.9%, 32%, 13.2%, and 6.8% of the total alkaloids, respectively). FSL rats showed significantly decreased swimming and climbing (coping) behaviours, and significantly increased immobility (despair), versus FRL controls. ESC 5 mg/kg and Zembrin® 25 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg showed significant dose-dependent reversal of immobility in FSL rats and variable effects on coping behaviours. Zembrin® 50 mg/kg was the most effective antidepressant dose, showing equivalence to ESC 5.

CONCLUSIONS

Zembrin® (25 and 50 mg/kg) and ESC (5 mg/kg) are effective antidepressants after acute treatment in the FST, as assessed in FSL rats. Moreover, Zembrin® 50 mg/kg proved equivalent to ESC 5. Further long-term bio-behavioural studies on the antidepressant properties of Zembrin® are warranted.

Aqueous extract of Solanum nigrum attenuates Angiotensin-II induced cardiac hypertrophy and improves cardiac function by repressing protein kinase C-ζ to restore HSF2 deSUMOlyation and Mel-18-IGF-IIR signaling suppression

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Solanum nigrum, commonly known as Makoi or black shade has been traditionally used in Asian countries and other regions of world to treat liver disorders, diarrhoea, inflammatory conditions, chronic skin ailments (psoriasis and ringworm), fever, hydrophobia, painful periods, eye diseases, etc. It has been observed that S. nigrum contains substances, like steroidal saponins, total alkaloid, steroid alkaloid, and glycoprotein, which show anti-tumor activity. However; there is no scientific evidence of the efficacy of S. nigrum in the treatment of cardiac hypertrophy.

AIM

To investigate the ability of S. nigrum to attenuate Angiotensin II - induced cardiac hypertrophy and improve cardiac function through the suppression of protein kinase PKC-ζ and Mel-18-IGF-IIR signaling leading to the restoration of HSF2 desumolyation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cardiomyoblast cells (H9c2) were challenged with 100 nM Angiotensin-II (AngII) for 24 h and were then treated with different concentration of S.nigrum or Calphostin C for 24 h. The hypertrophic effect in cardiomyoblast cells were determined by immunofluorescence staining and the modulations in hypertrophic protein marker along with Protein Kinase C-ζ, MEL18, HSF2, and Insulin like growth factor II (IGFIIR), markers were analyzed by western blotting. In vivo experiments were performed using 12 week old male Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY) and Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) separated into five groups. [1]Control WKY, [2] WKY -100 mg/kg of S.nigrum treatment, [3] SHR, [4] SHR-100 mg/kg of S.nigrum treatment, [5] SHR-300 mg/kg of S.nigrum treatment. S. nigrum was administered intraperitoneally for 8 week time interval.

RESULTS

Western blotting results indicate that S. nigrum significantly attenuates AngII induced cardiac hypertrophy. Furthermore, actin staining confirmed the ability of S. nigrum to ameliorate AngII induced cardiac hypertrophy. Moreover, S. nigrum administration suppressed the hypertrophic signaling mediators like Protein Kinase C-ζ, Mel-18, and IGFIIR in a dose-dependent manner and HSF2 activation (restore deSUMOlyation) that leads to downregulation of IGF-IIR expression. Additionally in vivo experiments demonstrate the reduced heart sizes of S. nigrum treated SHRs rats when compared to control WKY rats.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, the data reveals the cardioprotective effect of S. nigrum inhibiting PKC-ζ with alleviated IGF IIR level in the heart that profoundly remits cardiac hypertrophy for hypertension-induced heart failure.

Swertia purpurascens Wall ethanolic extract mitigates hepatic fibrosis and restores hepatic hepcidin levels via inhibition of TGFβ/SMAD/NFκB signaling in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Swertia purpurascens Wall belongs to a well-known genus in traditional systems of medicine worldwide. In folklore, it is used to treat various ailments, including hepatic disorders, as an alternative to the endangered species Swertia chirayita. However, the therapeutic potential of Swertia purpurascens Wall against hepatic fibrosis has not been validated yet.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was planned to evaluate the efficacy of the Swertia purpurascens Wall extract (SPE) against hepatic fibrosis and elucidate the underlying mechanism of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The metabolite profiling of the SPE was done using UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS. The acute oral toxicity study of SPE at 2 g/kg BW dose was done in rats. Further, the liver fibrosis was induced by the CCl₄ intoxication, and the efficacy of SPE at three doses (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg BW) was evaluated by studying biochemical parameters, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, qRT-PCR, western blotting and in silico analysis.

RESULTS

UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS analysis revealed the presence of a total of 23 compounds in SPE. Acute oral toxicity study of SPE at 2 g/kg BW showed no harmful effects in rats. Further, the liver fibrosis was induced by the CCl₄ administration, and the efficacy of SPE was evaluated at three doses (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg BW). SPE treatment significantly improved the body weight gain, the relative liver weight, serum liver injury markers and endogenous antioxidant enzyme levels in the CCl₄-treated rats. SPE also recovered the altered liver histology and effectively reduced the fibrotic tissue deposition in the hepatic parenchyma. Further, SPE significantly inhibited the fibrotic (TGFβ, αSMA, SMADs and Col1A), proinflammatory markers (NFκB, TNFα and IL1β) and apoptosis in the liver tissue. Interestingly, SPE treatment also restored the altered hepcidin levels in the liver tissue. In silico study revealed the potential of various metabolites as drug candidates and their interaction with target proteins.

CONCLUSION

Altogether, SPE showed its therapeutic potential against CCl₄-induced hepatic fibrosis by restoring the hepatic hepcidin levels and inhibiting TGFβ/SMAD/NFκB signaling in rats.

Ginger and 6-gingerol prevent lipopolysaccharide-induced intestinal barrier damage and liver injury in mice

BACKGROUND

Inflammation-related diseases present a significant public health problem. Ginger is a flavoring spice and medicinal herb with anti-inflammatory activity. This study investigated the preventive effects of ginger extract (GE) and its main bioactive component, 6-gingerol (6G), on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction and liver injury in mice.

RESULTS

GE and 6G were orally administered to mice for seven consecutive days before LPS administration. After 24 h, the mice were sacrificed. GE and 6G were found to significantly reverse LPS-induced inflammation in the mouse ileum by modifying the NF-κB pathway. They also alleviated apoptosis in the ileum by downregulating Bax and cytochrome c gene expression and by inhibiting the caspase-3 pathway. Through the aforementioned mechanisms, GE and 6G restored the intestinal barrier by increasing ZO-1 and claudin-1 protein expressions. Gut-derived LPS induced inflammation and apoptosis in the liver; these effects were markedly reversed through GE and 6G treatment. 6G was the most abundant component in GE, as evidenced through liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, and accounted for >50% of total gingerols and shogaols in GE.

CONCLUSION

The current results support the use of GE and 6G as dietary supplements to protect against gut-derived endotoxemia-associated inflammatory response and disorders. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

In vitro and in vivo antidiabetic activity, isolation of flavonoids, and in silico molecular docking of stem extract of Merremia tridentata (L.)

The antidiabetic activity of stem-ethanol extract (SE) and the flavonoid-rich fraction (FF) of Merremia tridentata (L.) were investigated on alloxan-induced diabetic mice. Apigenin, cosmosiin, and quercitrin are flavonoids isolated for the first time from stem extracts. In addition, cynaroside was found to be at the highest level in SE and FF with a percentage of 4.375% and 58.430%, respectively. The administration of SE (100 mg/kg) and FF (50, 75 mg/kg) daily for 20 days resulted in a better hypoglycemic effect than the reference drugs, glibenclamide (5 mg/kg), and metformin (10 mg/kg). Furthermore, SE and FF were shown to significantly improve the plasma lipid profiles at the end of the study. Docking's study suggests that cynaroside, cosmosiin, and quercitrin are the most desirable compounds for hypoglycemic effects in many antidiabetic targets. Especially, SE and FF showed strongly α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities (IC50 = 1.61-1.72 mg/mL on α-amylase and IC50 = 0.24-0.44 mg/mL on α-glucosidase). Therefore, SE and FF of Merremia tridentata is a potential drug with antidiabetic and hypoglycemic action as indicated by in vivo, in silico, and in vitro studies.

Hypoglycemic peptide-enriched hydrolysates of Corbicula fluminea and Chlorella sorokiniana possess synergistic hypoglycemic activity through inhibiting α-glucosidase and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 activity

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus worldwide has increased in recent decades. Maintaining the level of blood glucose is the most basic and important issue for diabetics. This study aimed to investigate the hypoglycemic activity of a combination of hypoglycemic peptide-enriched hydrolysates of Corbicula fluminea (ACH) and Chlorella sorokiniana (PCH).

RESULTS

Combined supplementation of ACH and PCH synergistically inhibited α-glucosidase and DPP4 activities in vitro. After 4 weeks of treatment with ACH and/or PCH, the plasma glucose concentration and insulin, homeostasis model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) levels significantly decreased. The hypoglycemic peptides in ACH and PCH were purified and assayed for α-glucosidase and DPP4 activity. The hypoglycemic peptides in ACH and PCH effectively decreased α-glucosidase and DPP4 activities. In silico assays showed that these two peptide types have different docking poses, which determined their inhibitory effect against α-glucosidase and DPP4 activity.

CONCLUSION

Combined treatment with hypoglycemic peptide-enriched ACH and PCH could modulate blood glucose by synergistically inhibiting α-glucosidase and DPP4 activities. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.

Marantodes pumilum: Systematic computational approach to identify their therapeutic potential and effectiveness

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Marantodes pumilum (MP) herbs, locally known as Kacip Fatimah, are widely used traditionally to improve women's health. The herb is frequently used for gynecological issues such as menstrual problems, facilitating and quickening delivery, post-partum medication, treats flatulence and dysentery, and. MP extracts are thought to aid in the firming and toning of abdominal muscles, tighten breasts and vaginal muscles, and anti-dysmenorrhea. It also was used for the treatment of gonorrhea and hemorrhoids. As MP product has been produced commercially recently, more in-depth studies should be conducted. The presence of numerous active compounds in MP might provide a synergistic effect and potentially offer other health benefits than those already identified and known.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to use a computational target fishing approach to predict the possible therapeutic effect of Marantodes pumilum and evaluated their effectivity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study involves a computational approach to identify the potential targets by using target fishing. Several databases were used: PubChem database to obtain the chemical structure of interested compounds; Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP) server and the SWISSADME web tool to identify and select the compounds having drug-likeness properties; PharmMapper was used to identify top ten target protein of the selected compounds and Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) was used to predict human genetic problems; the gene id of top-10 proteins was obtained from UniProtKB to be analyzed by using GeneMANIA server to check the genes' function and their co-expression; Gene Pathway established by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) of the selected targets were analyzed by using EnrichR server and confirmed by using DAVID (The Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery) version 6.8 and STRING database. All the interaction data was analyzed by Cytoscape version 3.7.2 software. The protein structure of most putative proteins was obtained from the RCSB protein data bank. Thedocking analysis was conducted using PyRx biological software v0.8 and illustrated by BIOVIA Discovery Studio Visualizer version 20.1.0. As a preliminary evaluation, a cell viability assay using Sulforhodamine B was conducted to evaluate the potential of the predicted therapeutic effect.

RESULTS

It was found that four studied compounds are highly correlated with three proteins: EFGR, CDK2, and ESR1. These proteins are highly associated with cancer pathways, especially breast cancer and prostate cancer. Qualitatively, cell proliferation assay conducted shown that the extract has IC50 of 88.69 μg/ml against MCF-7 and 66.51 μg/ml against MDA-MB-231.

CONCLUSIONS

Natural herbs are one of the most common forms of complementary and alternative medicine, and they play an important role in disease treatment. The results of this study show that in addition to being used traditionally to maintain women's health, the use of Marantodes pumilum indirectly has the potential to protect against the development of cancer cells, especially breast cancer. Therefore, further research is necessary to confirm the potential of this plant to be used in the development of anti-cancer drugs, especially for breast cancer.

Anti-nociceptive effects of ECa 233 a standardized extract of Centella asiatica (L.) Urban on chronic neuropathic orofacial pain in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

ECa 233 is a standardized extract of Centella asiatica (L.) Urban, a herb traditionally used to treat a number of diseases including neurological disorders. Accordingly, ECa 233 showed benefits on animal models of cognitive deficits, chronic stress and Parkinson's disease. Analgesic activity of ECa 233 was shown in Tail's flick test in rodent and relieving aphthous ulcer pain in man. Moreover, acute and sub-chronic toxicity testing in rodents and pharmacokinetic study in healthy volunteers, clinical trial phase I demonstrated good safety profiles of ECa 233.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aims to evaluate the anti-nociceptive effects of ECa 233 and its synergistic effect with gabapentin on chronic neuropathic orofacial pain after 3 weeks infraorbital nerve chronic constriction injury in mice. The peripheral and central nociceptive activities are also examined.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Chronic neuropathic orofacial pain was induced by 3 weeks infraorbital nerve chronic constriction injury. Mice were treated with ECa 233 (30, 100 and 300 mg/kg) and gabapentin (10 mg/kg) by oral gavage starting on day 21 and going on for 14 consecutive days. Mechanical hyperalgesia and allodynia were measured on day 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35 after infraorbital nerve chronic constriction injury. At the end of the experiment, mice were observed for the sedative effect using the locomotor activity, the calcitonin gen-related peptide in trigeminal ganglion and c-fos expression in trigeminal nucleus caudalis were investigated after euthanasia.

RESULTS

Infraorbital nerve chronic constriction injury gradually induced marked ipsilateral mechanical hyperalgesia and allodynia. The maximum hyperalgesia and allodynia response presented on day 21 and the response was remained constant until day 35. Treatment with either 300 mg/kg ECa 233 or 10 mg/kg gabapentin were able to attenuate mechanical hyperalgesia and allodynia. The downregulation of calcitonin gen-related peptide on ipsilateral trigeminal ganglion were observed in ECa 233 at 100 and 300 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg gabapentin-treated groups. The c-fos expression on ipsilateral trigeminal nucleus caudalis was also decreased in 300 mg/kg ECa 233 and 10 mg/kg gabapentin-treated groups.

CONCLUSION

ECa 233 reduced hyperalgesia and allodynia by modulating the peripheral calcitonin gen-related peptide expression consequently alleviate the nociceptive activity in trigeminal nucleus caudalis. Further clinical trial to proof ECa 233's efficacy in neuropathic pain in man as well as possible attributable mechanism of action should be further investigated.

A new discovery: Total Bupleurum saponin extracts can inhibit the proliferation and induce apoptosis of colon cancer cells by regulating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Bupleurum chinense DC has a history of using herb in China for more than 2000 years, which can be traced back to the Classic of Shennong Materia Medica in the Han Dynasty. Although Saikosaponin, the main active ingredient of Bupleurum, has the effects of anti-tumor, yet we still do not know the mechanism by total Bupleurum saponin extracts (TBSE) produces this effect on colon cancer.

AIM OF THE STUDY

It is predicted by network pharmacology that TBSE may play an anti-colon cancer role by regulating the PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether TBSE inhibits proliferation and promote apoptosis of colon cancer cells by regulating PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effect of saikosaponins on the proliferation of SW480 and SW620 cells was detected by CCK-8, apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry, morphological changes of cells were observed by microscope, nuclear morphological changes were observed after immunofluorescence staining, the expression of apoptosis-related proteins Bax, Bcl2, Caspase3, Caspase9, Cleaved Caspase3 and Cleaved Caspase9 were detected by Western Blot, and the expression of apoptosis-related genes Bax, Bcl2, Caspase3 and Caspase9 were detected by RT-PCR. According to the theory of network pharmacology, the potential targets of saikosaponins and colon cancer were predicted by database Pharmmapper and Genecards database respectively. The intersection of saikosaponins and colon cancer was enriched and analyzed on the Metascape platform. Then, the expression of PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway related protein PI3K, Akt, Mtor, p-PI3K, p-Akt, p-mTOR were detected by Western Blot, and the corresponding amount of RNA expressions in the pathway was confirmed by RT-PCR.

RESULTS

The results of CCK-8 demonstrated that the survival rate of SW480 and SW620 cells decreased significantly when the concentration of TBSE was in the range of 25-200 μg/ml. The morphological observation showed that the cells lost normal cell morphology, cytoplasmic condensation, and partial loss of adhesion after treatment with TBSE. Flow cytometry indicated that the apoptosis rates of SW480 cells and SW620 cells treated with TBSE (50 μg/ml) were 48.47% ± 1.20% and 36.13% ± 1.76%, respectively. Western Blot firstly confirmed that TBSE significantly up-regulated the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins Bax, Caspase3, Caspase9, Cleaved Caspase3 and Cleaved Caspase9, and down-regulated the expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl2. And RT-PCR results implied that TBSE significantly up-regulated the gene expression of apoptotic factors Bax, Caspase3 and Caspase9, and significantly decreased the gene expression of Bcl2. It was predicted that the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway may be the main regulatory object of the antitumor effect of TBSE by network pharmacology. Subsequent WB experiment also revealed that TBSE could significantly down-regulate (P < 0.01) the expressions of PI3K, Akt, mTOR and phosphorylated proteins P-PI3K, P-Akt, P-MTOR. Meanwhile, RT-PCR results also indicated that TBSE could significantly down-regulate (P < 0.01) the gene expression levels of PI3K, Akt and mTOR.

CONCLUSIONS

TBSE activated Bax/Bcl2 and caspase-9/caspase-3 cascade to induced apoptosis of human colon cancer SW480 and SW60 cells in a dose-dependent manner, which was obviously related to the inhibition of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.

Effects of the Tibetan medicine Byur dMar Nyer lNga Ril Bu on Alzheimer's disease in mice models

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Byur dMar Nyer lNga Ril Bu (BdNlRB) is a classic Tibetan medicine prescription for treating " white vein disease". Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic degenerative disease of the central nervous system, characterized by distinct "white vein disease". In the absence of effective drugs for AD, BdNlRB may be a possible treatment for AD.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To verify the therapeutic effect and possible mechanism of the proved Tibetan medicine BdNlRB on Alzheimer's disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

60 APP/PS1 double transgenic AD mice (Mt) and 60 Aß1-40 protein-induced AD mice (Mi) were divided into 3 groups according to the dose of BdNlRB: BdNlRB-100, BdNlRB-200 and BdNlRB-400, with 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg*weight, respectively. The mice were administrated by gavage for 8 weeks. The cognitive ability of mice was detected by Morris Water Maze, the expression of Aß protein, p-tau and microglia was detected by immunofluorescent staining, the protein expression in the hippocampus was detected by proteomics, and the abundance of fecal intestinal flora was detected by 16S RNA.

RESULTS

The learning ability and memory ability of Mi mice were significantly improved after BdNlRB administration. The learning ability of Mt mice was significantly improved, while the memory ability was not improved after BdNlRB administration. After the treatment with low and medium doses of BdNlRB, the expression of p-tau decreased significantly (the rate of decrease in BdNlRB-100 and BdNlRB-200 groups was 8.05% and 12.7%, respectively), and the number of microglia increased (39.3% and 31.6%, respectively). BdNlRB significantly affected the protein expression in the hippocampus of Mt mice. 382 proteins in different expression in all three groups mainly involved in amino acid synthesis, fatty acid degradation, glutamine metabolism, synaptic vesicular cycle and oxidative phosphorylation, PPAR signaling pathway and Fc gamma-mediated phagocytosis were activated. Meanwhile, the administration of BdNlRB can regulate the intestinal flora of Mt mice, which reduces the abundance of Muribaculum and uncultured bacteroidales bacterium, and improves the abundance of Ruminococcus-1 and Ruminiclostridium-9.

CONCLUSION

The oral administration of BdNlRB significantly improved the cognitive ability of AD mice, and neuroinflammation and intestinal flora regulation were the possible mechanisms.

Sambucus nigra: A traditional medicine effective in reducing inflammation in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sambucus nigra L. is a plant of European origin and popularly known as elder, elderberry, black elder, European elder, European elderberry, and European black elderberry, being described in pharmacopoeia of several countries. Its flowers and berries have been used in folk medicine to treat feverish conditions, coughing, nasal congestion, and influenza besides its popular use as anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and diuretic agent.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this investigation was to elucidate the anti-inflammatory and the relaxant effect of the lyophilized aqueous extract obtained from S. nigra's flowers on in vivo and in vitro inflammation assays and on the isolated rat vascular and airway smooth muscle tissue.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The anti-inflammatory activity of the extract was investigated using carrageenan-induced inflammation model in the subcutaneous tissue of male Swiss mice orally treated with S. nigra extract (30, 100, 300 or 600 mg/kg). Leukocyte influx and the secretion of chemical mediators were quantified in the inflamed exudate. Additionally, histological analysis of the pouches was performed. N-Formyl-methionine-leucine-phenylalanine-induced chemotaxis, lipopolysaccharide-induced TNF, IL-6, IL-1β, IL-10 and NO production, and adhesion molecule expression (CD62L, CD49d and CD18, flow cytometry) were analyzed in vitro using oyster glycogen-recruited peritoneal neutrophils or macrophages (RAW 264.7) stimulated with LPS and treated with the extract (1, 10 or 100 μg/mL). The resolution of inflammation was accessed by efferocytosis assay, and the antinociceptive activity was investigated using carrageenan-induced mechanical hypersensitivity. Finally, the effect of the extract was evaluated in isolated rat aorta and trachea rings.

RESULTS

The oral treatment with S. nigra promoted reduction in the neutrophil migration as well as the decrease of TNF, IL-1β and IL-6 levels in the inflamed exudate. In vitro treatment with S. nigra decreased NO₂^-, TNF, IL-1β and IL-6 and promoted increase of IL-10 in LPS-stimulated neutrophils. Similarly, the extract reduced the NO₂^-, TNF and IL-6 in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Rutin, the major constituent of S. nigra extract reduced NO₂^-, TNF, IL-1β, and IL-6 and promoted the increase of IL-10 in LPS-stimulated neutrophils supernatant. The extract also shed CD62L and CD18 expressions. The extract was able to increase the efferocytosis of apoptotic neutrophils by increasing the IL-10 and decreasing the TNF levels. Additionally, the extract reduced the hypersensitivity induced by carrageenan and promoted a relaxant effect in isolated vascular and non-vascular rat tissue.

CONCLUSIONS

S. nigra flowers extract presents anti-inflammatory effect by modulating macrophage and neutrophil functions including the production of inflammatory mediators and cell migration, by promoting efferocytosis and consequently the resolution of acute inflammation, besides exerting antinociceptive effects, scientifically proving its popular use as medicinal plant. Allied to the relaxant effect in both vascular and non-vascular smooth muscle tissue, S. nigra extract represents an important tool for the management of acute inflammation.

Genotoxicity, nitric oxide level modulation and cardio-protective potential of Kalanchoe Integra Var. Crenata (Andr.) Cuf Leaves in murine models

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Advancement in cancer therapy has improved survival among patients. However, use of anticancer drugs like anthracyclines (e.g., doxorubicin) is not without adverse effects. Notable among adverse effects of doxorubicin (DOX) is cardiotoxicity, which ranges from mild transient blood pressure changes to potentially serious heart failure. Anecdotal reports suggest that Kalanchoe integra (KI) may have cardio-protective potential.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

This study sought to determine the cardio-protective potential of KI against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity and also examined any possible genotoxic potential of KI in selected organs. Additionally, the nitric oxide modulatory potential of KI was assessed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The leaves of KI were collected, air-dried, pulverised and extracted using 70% ethanol. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) fingerprinting was done for KI. Also, the single-cell gel electrophoresis assay (Comet assay) was employed to ascertain the genotoxic potential of KI. In assessment of cardio-protective potential of KI against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity, a total of 42 female Sprague-Dawley rats were put into 7 groups (n = 6). Group I: vehicle control, received normal saline (1 mL/kg p.o) for 30 days. Group II: toxic control, received DOX (20 mg/kg i.p.) once on the 29th day. Group III: KI control, received KI (300 mg/kg p.o) for 30 days. Group IV: vitamin E control, received vitamin E (100 mg/kg p.o) for 30 days. Group V: KI treated-1, received KI (300 mg/kg p.o) for 30 days and DOX (20 mg/kg i.p) on the 29th day. Group VI: KI treated-2, received KI (600 mg/kg p.o) for 30 days and DOX (20 mg/kg i.p) on the 29th day. Group VII: vitamin E treated, received vitamin E (100 mg/kg p.o) for 30 days and DOX (20 mg/kg i.p) on the 29th day. Thirty-six (36) hours after last administration, rats were sacrificed. Blood samples were taken via cardiac puncture to determine levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), enzymatic antioxidants such as glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT). Nitric oxide level was also determined. Hearts of rats in each group were excised and taken through histopathological examination.

RESULTS

In the HPLC fingerprint analysis, 13 peaks were identified, and peak with retention time of 24.0 min had the highest peak area (3.223 x104 mAU). Comet assay showed that the KI extract was non-genotoxic. Pretreatment with KI protected rats against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity as evidenced by the low levels of AST, ALT, ALP, CK and LDH compared with the controls (p < 0.05). SOD, CAT and GPX levels were also high for rats administered KI extracts, further showing that KI protected rats against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. KI also inhibited nitric oxide levels at 300 mg/kg and 600 mg/kg effective doses. Histological examination revealed that rats pretreated with KI showed no signs of abnormal myocardial fibres (shape, size and configuration).

CONCLUSION

Ethanolic (70%) leaf extract of KI showed no genotoxic potential and possessed cardioprotective effects against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in Sprague-Dawley rats. KI also inhibited nitric oxide production, thus, a potential nitric oxide scavenger.

Homalium zeylanicum attenuates streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemia and cellular stress in experimental rats via attenuation of oxidative stress imparts inflammation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Homalium zeylanicum (Gardner) Benth (Salicaceae) leaves are being used as folklore medicine to treat diabetes by the local folk of Andhra Pradesh, India. The medicinal claim of this plant with hypoglycaemic effects was initially studied by the authors. Results demonstrated the important antioxidant activities of the hydroalcohol fraction of leaves of H. zeylanicum leaves (HAHZL) were positively correlated with phenols and flavonoids contents.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Based on the previous findings, additional research is needed to examine the efficacy of using HAHZL to treat hyperglycemia. We therefore investigated in vitro and in vivo glycemic response of HAHZL, and evaluation of possible mechanism of bioactive molecules in mitigating streptozotocin-induced cellular stress in experimental rats via attenuation of oxidative stress imparts inflammation.

METHODS

GC-MS/MS analysis of HAHZL was carried out to identify bioactive constituents. In vitro antidiabetic (α-glucosidase, α-amylase) and anti-inflammatory activities were investigated. HFD/low-STZ-prompted diabetic Wistar rats were administered with HAHZL (300 and 400 mg/kg; oral) for 28 days. Blood serum, oxidative stress, inflammation, DNA damage, and antidiabetic markers of pancreas and liver were determined. Histopathological studies of liver and pancreas were performed to assess the protective role of HAHZL.

RESULTS

GC-MS/MS study revealed 7 bioactive compounds e.g., Phenol, 4-ethenyl-, acetate (28.68%), hydroquinone (9.10%), n-hexadecanoic acid (0.55%), phytol (0.57%), arbutin (17.65%), Vitamin E (1.04%), β-Sitosterol (1.54%) which possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic activities. HAHZL showed significant in vitro glycemic response as evidenced by the inhibition of α-amylase, and α-glucosidase activities. Lineweaver-Burk plot revealed that HAHZL exhibited competitive and mixed competitive inhibition towards α-amylase and α-glucosidase, respectively. HAHZL at 400 mg/kg modulated the pathophysiology associated with HFD/STZ-induced type2 diabetes mellitus and significantly (p < 0.001) improved antihyperglycemic (SG, SI, HOMA-IR, and HbA1C), antidyslipidemic (TC, HDL-C, LDL-C, and TG), antioxidative (MDA, SOD, CAT, GSH, and 8-OHdG) and anti-inflammatory (TNF-α, and CRP) markers in serum, pancreas and liver. In vitro and in vivo test results were corroborated by the improvement of pancreatic and hepatic tissue architecture in diabetic rats.

CONCLUSION

HAHZL bearing bioactive components phenol, 4-ethenyl-,acetate, hydroquinone, n-hexadecanoic acid, arbutin, phytol, vitamin E and β-sitosterol balanced glycemic level by normalising the levels of glycaemic indices, lipid profile, pancreas and liver functional markers in STZ-induced T2DM rats.

In-vitro anti-Helicobacter pylori activity and preliminary mechanism of action of Canarium album Raeusch. fruit extracts

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Canarium album Raeusch. belongs to the Burseraceae family. Its ripe fruits, known as Qing Guo (QG) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), are used to treat sore throat, cough, and fish or crab poisoning. QG was reported to have antibacterial activity, and it exerted excellent anti-Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) activity in our screening of abundant TCM. However, few studies have reported its anti-H. pylori activity and mechanism.

AIM OF STUDY

The commonly used eradication therapies for H. pylori infection are antibiotic-based therapies. With the increasing antibiotic resistance of H. pylori, interest in finding alternative therapies has been aroused. This study investigated the phytochemistry profile, in vitro anti-H. pylori activity and possible anti-bacterial mechanism of QG extracts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

QG extracts were obtained by heat reflux extraction, ultrasonic extraction or liquid-liquid extraction with different solvents. The quantitative and qualitative phytochemical analyses were performed by colorimetric determination, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and UPLC-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS). In vitro anti- H. pylori activity was assessed by broth micro-dilution method. Mechanism of action studies included morphological observation using electron microscopy, urease inhibition assay and determination of expression of virulence genes by RT-qPCR.

RESULTS

All QG extracts especially ethyl acetate extract (QGEAE) were rich in phenolic components, with the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) on H.pylori of 39-625 μg/ml and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) of 78-1250 μg/ml. Both aqueous extract (QGAE) and QGEAE could induce the morphological and structural changes of H. pylori, inhibit urease activity with IC₅₀ of 1093 μg/ml and 332.90 μg/ml, respectively, and down-regulate the virulence genes, such as vacA and cagA.

CONCLUSIONS

QG may exhibit in vitro anti-H. pylori activity by inhibiting growth, destroying the bacterial structure and down-regulating the expression of virulence factors. Moreover, QG is the homology of food and TCM, which can be considered as a safe and convenient agent against H. pylori infection.

Design of Turmeric Rhizome Extract Nano-Formula for Delivery to Cancer Cells

Novel turmeric rhizome extract nanoparticles (TE-NPs) were developed from fractions of dried turmeric (Curcuma longa Linn.) rhizome. Phytochemical studies, by using HPLC and TLC, of the fractions obtained from ethanol extraction and solvent–solvent extraction showed that turmeric rhizome ethanol extract (EV) and chloroform fraction (CF) were composed mainly of three curcuminoids and turmeric oil. Hexane fraction (HE) was composed mainly of turmeric oil while ethyl acetate fraction (EA) was composed mainly of three curcuminoids. The optimal TE-NPs formulation with particle size of 159.6 ± 1.7 nm and curcumin content of 357.48 ± 8.39 µM was successfully developed from 47-run D-optimal mixture–process variables experimental design. Three regression models of z-average, d₅₀, and d₉₀ could be developed with a reasonable accuracy of prediction (predicted r² values were in the range of 0.9120–0.9992). An in vitro cytotoxicity study using MTT assay demonstrated that the optimal TE-NPs remarkably exhibited the higher cytotoxic effect on human hepatoma cells, HepG2, when compared with free curcumin. This study is the first to report nanoparticles prepared from turmeric rhizome extract and their cytotoxic activity to hepatic cancer cells compared with pure curcumin. These nanoparticles might serve as a potential delivery system for cancer therapy.

Preliminary Study of Gastroprotective Effect of Aloe perryi and Date Palm Extracts on Pyloric Ligation-Induced Gastric Ulcer in Experimental Rats

OBJECTIVE

The present study was aimed at investigating the possible antiulcer activities of some natural phytochemicals Aloe perryi leaf extract (APLE) and flower extract (APFE) in addition to the date palm seed extract (DPSE) and the oily samples of DPSE in a pylorus ligation-induced ulcer model using ranitidine as a standard antiulcer drug.

BACKGROUND

Peptic ulcer is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder due to hypersecretion of gastric acid. It affects four million people worldwide, and 2-10% of these ulcers are perforated and cause bleeding. This increases the risk of morbidity and mortality. So we aimed to introduce a primary study alternatively safe method for treating peptic ulcer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-two Wistar Albino rats of either sex were randomly divided into seven groups (6/each). The pylorus ligation was done to induce ulcer in pretreated albino rats. The antiulcer activities of extracts were estimated at different dose levels (250 and 500 mg/kg) using ranitidine as a standard drug (50 mg/kg). Gastric volume, pH, and total and free acidity as well as ulcer index and percentage of ulcer inhibition were measured to elucidate the antiulcerogenic effects. Histological examination of gastric ulcer was also performed. Statistical analysis for the results was done where P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Pylorus ligation for 6 h in control rats resulted in gastric ulcer which was indicated by the accumulation of gastric secretion and increased total acidity and decreased pH. The pretreatment of rats with APLE, APFE, and DPSE in addition to the oily samples of DPSE significantly inhibited the ulcers induced by pylorus ligation. These effects were attributed to significant reductions in total and free acidity, ulcer index, and gastric volume while there is a marked decrease in gastric pH (the antisecretory) as well as mucosal strengthening properties of these phytochemicals.

CONCLUSION

These findings give these extracts the potential to be a promising tool for the management of gastric ulcer after performing further clinical and experimental studies. Our study demonstrated the promising antiulcer activity of extracts and oils in pyloric ligation-induced gastric ulcer. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to explore the antiulcer activity of these extracts; however, further investigations may be recommended for full details about this antiulcerogenic capacity.

Anticancer activity of Zingiber ottensii essential oil and its nanoformulations

Zingiber ottensii, is widely used in Asian traditional remedies for the treatment of many diseases. The present study explores anticancer activity of Z. ottensii essential oil (ZOEO) and its nanoformulations. ZOEO obtained from hydrodistillation of Z. ottensii fresh rhizomes was analysis using gas chromatography mass spectroscopy. Zerumbone (25.21%) was the major compound of ZOEO followed by sabinene (23.35%) and terpene-4-ol (15.97%). Four types of ZOEO loaded nanoformulations; nanoemulsion, microemulsion, nanoemulgels, and microemulgel, were developed. The average droplet size of the nanoemulsion and microemulsion was significantly smaller than that of the nanoemulgel and microemulgel. Comparison with other essential oils of plants of the same family on anticancer activity against A549, MCF-7, HeLa, and K562, ZOEO showed the highest cytotoxicity with IC50 of 43.37±6.69, 9.77±1.61, 23.25±7.73, and 60.49±9.41 μg/mL, respectively. Investigation using flow cytometry showed that ZOEO significantly increased the sub-G1 populations (cell death) in cell cycle analysis and induced cell apoptosis by apoptotic analysis. The developed nanoformulations significantly enhanced cytotoxicity of ZOEO, particularly against MCF-7 with the IC50 of 3.08±2.58, 0.74±0.45, 2.31±0.91, and 6.45±5.84 μg/mL, respectively. Among the four nanoformulations developed in the present study, nanoemulsion and microemulsion were superior to nanoemulgel and microemulgel in delivering ZOEO into cancer cells.

Myrianthus arboreus P. Beauv improves insulin sensitivity in high fat diet-induced obese mice by reducing inflammatory pathways activation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Metabolic syndrome is currently recognized as the major cause of morbidity, with dramatic complications on life expectancy and health status. Myrianthus arboreus is a medicinal plant traditionally used in local communities as a safe remedy in treating diabetes and other metabolic diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate the impact of a methanol extract of Myrianthus arboreus leaf (MAL) in a mice model of metabolic syndrome induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) intake.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male C57BL/6J mice were assigned to the following groups: control, obese control, and obese treated with MAL extract (10, 25, and 50 mg/kg) for 6 weeks. Control mice received a standard chow diet, while all obese mice were fed with HFD. Animal weight and food consumption were periodically measured. At the end of the treatment, fasting blood glucose and metabolic plasma analysis (insulin level, triglycerides, and total cholesterol (TC)) were performed. The HFD-induced inflammatory status and the expression of several obesity-related markers were evaluated in liver and fat using qPCR and Western blot analysis. In addition, the phytochemical composition of MAL was identified by GC-MS and HPLC-MS.

RESULTS

MAL administration significantly reduced body weight gain, basal glycemia, and insulin resistance, and improved plasma lipid profile compared with HFD-fed mice. Similarly, this extract improved the HFD-associated inflammatory status in mice by gene expression modulation of different inflammatory markers involved in this experimentally induced metabolic condition.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate the novel applicability of MAL, thus suggesting it as a promising therapeutic approach for the management of metabolic disorders.