A Comparative GC/MS Analysis of Citrus Essential Oils: Unveiling the Potential Benefits of Herb-Drug Interactions in Preventing Paracetamol-Induced Hepatotoxicity

Our study aimed to test the potential of Citrus oils in protecting against paracetamol (PAR)-induced hepatotoxicity. The essential oils of Pineapple sweet orange (OO), Murcott mandarin (MO), Red grapefruit (GO), and Oval kumquat (KO) were investigated using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Twenty-seven compounds were identified, with monoterpene hydrocarbons being abundant class. d-Limonene had the highest percentage (92.98 %, 92.82 %, 89.75 %, and 94.46 % in OO, MO, GO, and KO, respectively). Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal components analysis (PCA) revealed that octanal, linalool, germacrene D, and d-limonene were the principal discriminatory metabolites that segregated the samples into three distinct clusters. In vitro antioxidant capacities were ranged from 1.2-12.27, 1.79-5.91, and 235.05-585.28 μM Trolox eq/mg oil for 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic (ABTS), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), respectively. In vivo, citrus oils exhibited a significant reduction in alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and nitric oxide (NO). Additionally, there was an increase in glutathione reductase (GSH), and the liver architecture was nearly normal. Molecular docking revealed that d-limonene exhibited a good inhibitory interaction with cytochrome P450 (CYP450) isoforms 1A2, 3A4, and 2E1, with binding energies of -6.17, -4.51, and -5.61 kcal/mol, respectively.

Taming Food-Drug Interaction Risk: Potential Inhibitory Effects of Citrus Juices on Cytochrome Liver Enzymes Can Safeguard the Liver from Overdose Paracetamol-Induced Hepatotoxicity

Paracetamol overdose is the leading cause of drug-induced hepatotoxicity worldwide. Because of N-acetyl cysteine's limited therapeutic efficacy and safety, searching for alternative therapeutic substitutes is necessary. This study investigated four citrus juices: Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck var. Pineapple (pineapple sweet orange), Citrus reticulata Blanco × Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck (Murcott mandarin), Citrus paradisi Macfadyen var. Ruby Red (red grapefruit), and Fortunella margarita Swingle (oval kumquat) to improve the herbal therapy against paracetamol-induced liver toxicity. UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS profiling of the investigated samples resulted in the identification of about 40 metabolites belonging to different phytochemical classes. Phenolic compounds were the most abundant, with the total content ranked from 609.18 to 1093.26 μg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/mL juice. The multivariate data analysis revealed that phloretin 3',5'-di-C-glucoside, narirutin, naringin, hesperidin, 2-O-rhamnosyl-swertisin, fortunellin (acacetin-7-O-neohesperidoside), sinensetin, nobiletin, and tangeretin represented the crucial discriminatory metabolites that segregated the analyzed samples. Nevertheless, the antioxidant activity of the samples was 1135.91-2913.92 μM Trolox eq/mL juice, 718.95-3749.47 μM Trolox eq/mL juice, and 2304.74-4390.32 μM Trolox eq/mL juice, as revealed from 2,2'-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid, ferric-reducing antioxidant power, and oxygen radical absorbance capacity, respectively. The in vivo paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity model in rats was established and assessed by measuring the levels of hepatic enzymes and antioxidant biomarkers. Interestingly, the concomitant administration of citrus juices with a toxic dose of paracetamol effectively recovered the liver injury, as confirmed by normal sections of hepatocytes. This action could be due to the interactions between the major identified metabolites (hesperidin, hesperetin, phloretin 3',5'-di-C-glucoside, fortunellin, poncirin, nobiletin, apigenin-6,8-digalactoside, 6',7'-dihydroxybergamottin, naringenin, and naringin) and cytochrome P450 isoforms (CYP3A4, CYP2E1, and CYP1A2), as revealed from the molecular docking study. The most promising compounds in the three docking processes were hesperidin, fortunellin, poncirin, and naringin. Finally, a desirable food-drug interaction was achieved in our research to overcome paracetamol overdose-induced hepatotoxicity.

Cardioprotection by methylene Blue Against Epinephrine-Induced Cardiac Arrhythmias and Myocardial Injury

Methylene blue is used in the treatment of vasoplegic syndrome after cardiac surgery, anaphylaxis, and septic shock refractory to epinephrine and fluid resuscitation. In this study, we investigated the potential protective effect of methylene blue on the development of cardiac arrhythmias after injection of epinephrine in rats. Methylene blue was given intraperitoneally at doses of 50 or 100 mg/kg. Cardiac arrhythmia was then induced with 10 μg/kg of epinephrine intravenously. In untreated, control rats, epinephrine caused bradycardia (96.48 ± 1.06 vs. 365.03 ± 0.68 beats/min), increased PR interval (0.54 ± 0.04 vs. 0.039 ± 0.004), RR interval (0.64 ± 0.003 vs. 0.16 ± 0.004 sec), shortened QTc interval (0.067 ± 0.05 vs. 0.1 ± 0.004 sec), increased QRS duration (0.048 ± 0.005 vs. 0.028 ± 0.002 sec), decreased R wave amplitude (0.3 ± 0.03 vs. 0.49 ± 0.04 mv), decreased the height of the ST segment (-0.0696 ± 0.004 vs. -0.0054 ± 0.003 mv), and caused ventricular extrasystoles (7.92 ± 0.56 vs. 0.5 ± 0.5). Methylene blue given at 50 or 100 mg/kg increased the heart rate, decreased RR interval, QRS duration and the drop in the ST height, increased duration of QTc interval and R wave amplitude and decreased the number of extrasystoles. The histological study showed that methylene blue protected against myocardial structural disorganization, cellular damage, necrosis, and haemorrhage between muscle fibres induced by epinephrine injection. We conclude that methylene blue dose-dependently prevented epinephrine-induced arrhythmias and cardiac muscle injury.

The Protection by Vitamin E Against Tramadol-Induced Proconvulsant Effects and Brain Damage in Pentylenetetrazole-Induced Status Epilepticus in Rats

We investigated the effect of the opioid analgesic tramadol on the development of epileptic seizures and neuronal injury and the possible modulatory effect of vitamin E (Vit E) in rats with pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced status epilepticus. Rats received repeated intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of PTZ till the development of status epilepticus and were pretreated once with tramadol (30, 60 or 90 mg/kg), vitamin E (Vit E, 70 mg/kg) or both tramadol (90 mg/kg) and Vit E (70 mg/kg) prior to starting PTZ injections. Seizure scores, the latency time and the PTZ dose for each group required to reach status epilepticus were determined and histopathological examination of the brain tissue was done. Results indicated that tramadol produced both anticonvulsant and proconvulsant effects. The anticonvulsant effects of tramadol were observed for facial twitching (stage 1), convulsive body waves (stage 2), and myoclonic jerks and rearing (stage 3) and turn over onto one side position (stage 4) that were significantly inhibited by tramadol. In contrast, tonic-clonic convulsions (stage 5) were significantly increased by 60 or 90 mg/kg of tramadol as compared to PTZ control group. The mean latency and PTZ threshold dose for status epilepticus were markedly decreased after tramadol. The administration of Vit E exerted beneficial effects in decreasing epilepsy scores and increasing both the latency time and threshold dose of PTZ for reaching status epilepticus. Meanwhile, rats treated with both tramadol and Vit E exhibited significant increase in tonic-clonic convulsions and markedly shortened latency time to reach status epilepticus compared to those treated with only Vit E. In cerebral cortex and hippocampus, PTZ resulted in apoptotic cells, darkly stained degenerated and vacuolated neurons and gliosis. These pathological changes increased after tramadol but were markedly reduced by Vit E treatment. Collectively, these results suggest that: (i) tramadol exerts both anticonvulsant and proconvulsant effects; (ii) tramadol shortened the latency time and decreased the threshold dose of PTZ for evoking status epilepticus; (iii) PTZ-induced seizures and brain damage can be inhibited by Vit E; (iv) tramadol at high doses interferes with the effect of Vit E in inhibiting tonic-clonic convulsions and in reducing brain damage.

In vivo antidiabetic potential of standardized Gymnocarpos decandrus Forssk. Extract

Background

Gymnocarpos decandrus (Caryophyllaceae) is a well-known wild plant used as a food for grazing animals. Recently it showed potent antidiabetic potential beside its established anti-inflammatory, analgesic and diuretic activities. G. decandrus antidiabetic potential was reported through in-vitro models and resulted in promising α-amylase, α-glucosidase and antiviral Coxsackie B4 inhibitory activities; however no in-vivo studies were conducted.

Purpose

This study aims to examine Gymnocarpos decandrus ethanol extract (GDEE) safety and to evaluate its in vivo antidiabetic potential.

Method

Adult albino rats were injected intraperitoneally with alloxan to induce diabetes mellitus and the glucose level was measured after two and four weeks against metformin as a standard drug. Additionally, GDEE characterization and standardization were carried out.

Results

GDEE LD₅₀ was up to 5.8 mg/kg and exhibited significant antidiabetic activity 77.17% comparable to the standard drug metformin. Its total phenolics, and flavonoids amounted 127.2 ± 0.23 and 85.5 ± 0.21 mg/g respectively. Vitexin was used as a marker compound for GDEE (140.70 mg/100 gm).

Conclusion

This study represents the sole in vivo scientific validation of G. decandrus recently documented in vitro antidiabetic potential.

Alginate, gelatin, and carboxymethyl cellulose coated nonwoven fabrics containing antimicrobial AgNPs for skin wound healing in rats

Nonwoven fabrics containing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are widely utilized to assist management of infected wounds and those at risk of infection. However, such materials have varied responses due to their chemical nature. Herein we investigated the correlation between the concentration of AgNPs taken up by nonwoven viscose material and antibacterial activity in a simulated wound fluid model against two bacterial models (i.e., Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus). Thereafter, the developed nonwoven viscose containing AgNPs were independently coated with two polyacid carbohydrate polymers (i.e., carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCs), alginate (ALG)), and gelatin (GEL) protein in order to study their influence on the physical and biological attributes in vitro and in vivo. Intensive characterizations were utilized to monitor the physicochemical features of the developed nonwoven viscose. The results demonstrated that higher concentrations of AgNPs were taken up by viscose fabric whilewhile increasing AgNPs in the colloidal solution during padding process. Overall, the treated nonwoven fabric with and without polymers' coatings showed remarkable antibacterial activity against two bacterial models in vitro. As well as they achieved high and speed wound recovery in rats which was almost similar to commercial dermazin treatment. Therefore, it validates excellent nonwoven dressing clinically relevant to the wound type and condition.

The effect of low dose amphetamine in rotenone-induced toxicity in a mice model of Parkinson's disease

OBJECTIVES

The effects of low dose amphetamine on oxidative stress and rotenone-induced neurotoxicity and liver injury were examined in vivo in a mice model of Parkinson's disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male mice were treated with rotenone (1.5 mg/kg, every other day for two weeks, subcutaneously). Mice received either the vehicle or amphetamine intraperitoneally at doses of 0.5, 1.0, or 2.0 mg/kg. Oxidative stress was assessed by measurement of the lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), total anti-oxidant capacity (TAC), and paraoxonase-1 (PON-1) activity in the brain and liver. In addition, brain concentrations of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and tyrosine hydroxylase were determined and histopathology and Bax/Bcl-2 immunohistochemistry were performed.

RESULTS

The levels of lipid peroxidation and NO were increased and TAC and PON-1 were decreased significantly compared with vehicle-injected control mice. There were also significantly increased NF-κB and decreased tyrosine hydroxylase in the brain following rotenone administration. These changes were significantly attenuated by amphetamine. Rotenone caused neurodegenerative changes in the substantia nigra, cerebral cortex, and hippocampus. The liver showed degenerative changes in hepatocytes and infiltration of Kupffer cells. Bax/Bcl2 ratio was significantly increased in brain and liver tissues. Amphetamine prevented these histopathological changes and the increase in apoptosis evoked by rotenone.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that low dose amphetamine exerts anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic effects, protects against rotenone-induced neurodegeneration, and could prevent neuronal cell degeneration in Parkinson's disease.

Correction to: Capsaicin Exerts Anti-convulsant and Neuroprotective Effects in Pentylenetetrazole-Induced Seizures

The original version of this article unfortunately contains an error in the Y axis units in Fig. 1b, c (the symbol µ is not clear: µmol/g.tissue). This has been corrected by publishing this erratum.

Identification of biomarkers for the detection of subtle brain injury after cannabis and/or tramadol administration

Background

There is a need to identify biomarkers which could indicate the occurrence of brain injury in drug abuse.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate ubiquitin-C-terminal hydrolase-1 (UCH-L1), a neuronal cell body injury marker, the glial protein S-100 beta (S100β), and the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) as putative markers for neuronal injury due to cannabis, tramadol, or their combined use.

Materials and methods

Rats were treated with cannabis and/or tramadol subcutaneously daily for 6 weeks and UCH-L1, S100β, and GFAP were immunoassayed in the brain and serum.

Results

The results are as follows: (i) either cannabis or tramadol increased UCH-L1 and GFAP in the brain, (ii) serum UCH-L1 and GFAP increased by the highest dose of cannabis or tramadol, (iii) there was no additive effect for cannabis and tramadol on UCH-L1 or GFAP level in the brain or serum, (iv) S100β decreased in the brain by 5–20 mg/kg of cannabis and in the serum following 20 mg/kg of cannabis, and (v) S100β levels increased in the brain after 20 mg/kg of tramadol but decreased the brain and serum after both cannabis and tramadol. Cytoplasmic vacuolations, apoptotic cells, and gliosis were observed in the brain tissue of cannabis and/or tramadol-treated rats.

Conclusions

These results suggest that changes in UCH-L1, GFAP, or S100β are likely to reflect neurotoxicity and serum levels could be used to detect neuronal damage in chronic users.

Anticholinesterase activity and metabolite profiling of Syagrus romanzoffiana (Cham.) Glassman leaves and fruits via UPLC-QTOF-PDA-MS

The purpose of this study is to provide a complete metabolic profile of the hydroalcoholic extracts of the leaves and fruits of Syagrus romanzoffiana (Cham.) Glassman via UPLC-QTOF-PDA-MS and to evaluate their anticholinesterase activities in a model of Alzheimer disease. The current study has identified 39 metabolites belonging to various chemical classes (i.e. flavonols, phenolic acids, fatty acids, stilbenoids and lignans). While the fatty acids predominated in both leaves and fruits, the stilbenoids were more predominant in leaves. Their neuroprotective effect was comparable to Aricept; the standard drug used in treatment of Alzheimer disease. Both extracts significantly decreased the acetylcholinesterase activity and improved the histopathological changes in the cerebral cortex and cerebellum of rat model of aluminium chloride-induced Alzheimer disease. In light of the current study, Syagrus romanzoffiana (Cham.) Glassman is recommended as promising candidate for palliative treatment in Alzheimer disease through inhibition of the acetylcholinesterase activity.

Neuroprotective Effects of Low Dose Anandamide in Pentylenetetrazole-Induced Kindling in Rats

Anandamide (N-arachidonoylethanolamine) is an endogenous cannabinoid receptor CB1 ligand that exhibits neuroprotective effects in the brain. In this study, the effect of exogenously given anandamide on pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced chemical kindling oxidative stress and brain damage in rats was studied. Rats were intraperitoneally (i.p.) injected with 35 mg/kg PTZ once every 48 hours for 12 times to induce seizures. Anandamide was i.p. given. 30 min prior to PTZ injection at 100 or 200 mg/kg. Injections of PTZ induced significant increase in brain lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde: MDA), and nitric oxide associated with marked decrease in brain reduced glutathione (GSH). There were also significant decrements in acetylcholinesterase (AChE) concentration, butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) and paraoxonase-1 (PON-1) activities in brain tissue of PTZ injected rats. Meanwhile, there was no significant effect for PTZ on the concentration of brain neutrophil elastase. Anandamide administered at 100 and 200 mg/kg significantly decreased MDA and increased GSH contents and at 200 mg/kg significantly decreased nitric oxide in brain of PTZ-treated rats. The drug also caused significant increments in AChE concentration and PON-1 activity but had no significant effect on BChE or neutrophil elastase in rats treated with PTZ. Anandamide given at the dose of 200mg/kg significantly decreased the mean seizure scores over the study period by 22.3% and the frequency of myoclonic jerks and rearing (stage 3) by 56.7% compared with the vehicle-treated group. Anandamide given at 100 and 200 mg/kg completely inhibited the development of generalized tonic-clonic seizures (stage 5). It is concluded that in the PTZ-induced seizures, the cannabinoid receptor CB1 agonist anandamide decreases brain oxidative stress, neuronal injury, and exerts an antiepileptic activity.

Cannabis sativa Increases Seizure Severity and Brain Lipid Peroxidation in Pentylenetetrazole-Induced Kindling in Rats

The effect of Cannabis sativa extract on chemical kindling induced in rats by the repeated intraperitoneal (ip) injections of pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) was studied. Rats were treated with PTZ (35 mg/kg) once every 48 hours for 12 times alone or with ip Cannabis sativa (20 mg/kg expressed as Δ9-THC content) 30 min prior to PTZ injection. Seizures were recorded for 20 minutes. Control rats received ip saline. Cannabis treatment caused significant elevation of mean seizure score as compared to PTZ only group after the 5th, 6th and 7th PTZ repeated injections during seizure development. In particular, cannabis caused significant elevation in the frequency of myoclonic jerks, rearing (stage 3), turn over onto one side position and back position (stage 4), and generalized tonic-clonic seizures (stage 5) compared with the PTZ only group. PTZ caused significant elevations in brain lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde), and nitric oxide along with deceased reduced glutathione level. In addition, brain acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity significantly decreased compared to control value after PTZ treatment. Cannabis given to PTZ treated rats caused significant increase in brain malondialdehyde and AChE activity compared to PTZ only group. Reduced glutathione level was restored by cannabis. Histopathological studies indicated the presence of spongiform changes, degenerated and necrotic neurons, inflammatory cells, and gliosis in cerebral cortex and degeneration of some Purkinje cells in the cerebellum in both PTZ- and cannabis-PTZ-treated groups. It is concluded that in an epilepsy model induced by repeated PTZ administration, cannabis increased lipid peroxidation and mean seizure score.

Protection by Neostigmine and Atropine Against Brain and Liver Injury Induced by Acute Malathion Exposure

We examined the effect of treatment with neostigmine alone or with atropine on brain oxidative stress and on brain and liver tissue damage following acute malathion toxicity. Rats were intraperitoneally treated with malathion 150 mg/kg along with neostigmine (200 or 400 μg/kg) or neostigmine (200 μg/kg) + atropine (1 mg/kg) and euthanized 4 h later. Results indicated that compared with the saline group, malathion resulted in (i) higher brain malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (46.4% and 86.2%); (ii) decreased brain reduced glutathione (GSH) (67.6%); (iii) decreased brain paraoxonase-1 (PON1), acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) activities (31.2%, 21.6% and 60%); (iv) decreased brain glucose (-38.1%); (v) neuronal degeneration in cortex and hippocampus and markedly increased glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) immunostaining in the hippocampus; (v) hydropic and fatty degeneration in liver. Rats treated with malathion along with neostigmine or neostigmine + atropine showed no change in brain MDA but decreased nitric oxide (-34.2%-48%). GSH increased after neostigmine 200 μg/kg or neostigmine + atropine (35.8% and 41%). PON1 activity increased (42%-35.2%) and glucose concentrations increased (91.5%-81.5%) by 400 μg/kg neostigmine or neostigmine + atropine. Brain AChE activity remained unchanged but BChE activity showed 18.3% increment after 400 μg/kg neostigmine. Rats treated with 400 μg/kg neostigmine or neostigmine + atropine had normal neuronal appearance in cortex and hippocampus and weak GFAP expression in hippocampus. Liver damage was prevented by neostigmine + atropine. These results suggest that treatment with neostigmine + atropine afforded protection against the deleterious effects of acute malathion on the brain and liver.

Nitric oxide synthase inhibitors protect against brain and liver damage caused by acute malathion intoxication

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of N^G-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME), a non-selective nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor, and 7-nitroindazole (7-NI), a selective neuronal NOS inhibitor, on oxidative stress and tissue damage in brain and liver and on DNA damage of peripheral blood lymphocytes in malathion intoxicated rats.

METHODS

Malathion (150 mg/kg) was given intraperitoneally (i.p.) along with l-NAME or 7-NI (10 or 20 mg/kg, i.p.) and rats were euthanized 4 h later. The lipid peroxidation product malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (nitrite), reduced glutathione (GSH) concentrations and paraoxonase-1 (PON-1) activity were measured in both brain and liver. Moreover, the activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glucose concentrations were determined in brain. Liver enzyme determination, Comet assay, histopathological examination of brain and liver sections and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) immunohistochemistry were also performed.

RESULTS

(i) Rats treated with only malathion exhibited increased nitric oxide and lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde) accompanied with a decrease in GSH content, and PON-1 activity in brain and liver. Glutathione peroxidase activity, TAC, glucose concentrations, AChE and BChE activities were decreased in brain. There were also raised liver aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities and increased DNA damage of peripheral blood lymphocytes (Comet assay). Malathion caused marked histopathological changes and increased the expression of iNOS in brain and liver tissues. (ii) In brain of malathion-intoxicated rats, l-NAME or 7-NI resulted in decreased nitrite and MDA contents while increasing TAC and PON1 activity. Reduced GSH and GPx activity showed an increase by l-NAME. AChE activity increased by 20 mg/kg l-NAME and 10 mg/kg 7-NI. AChE activity decreased by the higher dose of 7-NI while either dose of 7-NI resulted in decreased BChE activity. (iii) In liver of malathion-intoxicated rats, decreased MDA content was observed after l-NAME or 7-NI. Nitrite level was unchanged by l-NAME but increased after 7-NI which also resulted in decreased GSH concentration and PON1 activity. Either inhibitor resulted in decreased liver ALT activity. (iv) DNA damage of peripheral blood lymphocytes was markedly inhibited by l-NAME or 7-NI treatment. (v) iNOS expression in brain and liver decreased by l-NAME or 7-NI. (vi) More marked improvement of the histopathological alterations induced by malathion in brain and liver was observed after 7-NI compared with l-NAME.

CONCLUSIONS

In malathion intoxicated rats, the neuronal NOS inhibitor 7-NI and to much less extent l-NAME were able to protect the brain and liver tissue integrity along with improvement in oxidative stress parameters. The decrease in DNA damage of peripheral blood lymphocytes by NOS inhibitors also suggests the involvement of nitric oxide in this process.

Acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase and paraoxonase 1 activities in rats treated with cannabis, tramadol or both

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of Cannabis sativa resin and/or tramadol, two commonly drugs of abuse on acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase activities as a possible cholinergic biomarkers of neurotoxicity induced by these agents.

METHODS

Rats were treated with cannabis resin (5, 10 or 20 mg/kg) (equivalent to the active constituent Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol), tramadol (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg) or tramadol (10 mg/kg) combined with cannabis resin (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg) subcutaneously daily for 6 weeks. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) activities were measured in brain and serum. We also measured the activity of paraoxonase-1 (PON1) in serum of rats treated with these agents.

RESULTS

(i) AChE activity in brain increased after 10-20 mg/kg cannabis resin (by 16.3-36.5%). AChE activity in brain did not change after treatment with 5-20 mg/kg tramadol. The administration of both cannabis resin (5, 10 or 20 mg/kg) and tramadol (10 mg/kg) resulted in decreased brain AChE activity by 14.1%, 12.9% and 13.6%, respectively; (ii) BChE activity in serum was markedly and dose-dependently inhibited by cannabis resin (by 60.9-76.9%). BChE activity also decreased by 17.6-36.5% by 10-20 mg/kg tramadol and by 57.2-63.9% by the cannabis resin/tramadol combined treatment; (iii) Cannabis resin at doses of 20 mg/kg increased serum PON1 activity by 25.7%. In contrast, tramadol given at 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in serum PON1 activity by 19%, 36.7%, and 46.1%, respectively. Meanwhile, treatment with cannabis resin plus tramadol resulted in 40.2%, 35.8%, 30.7% inhibition of PON1 activity compared to the saline group.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that cannabis resin exerts different effects on AChE and BChE activities which could contribute to the memory problems and the decline in cognitive function in chronic users.

Water soluble polysaccharides extracted from Pterocladia capillacea and Dictyopteris membranacea and their biological activities

Cold and hot water extracts (CWE, HWE) of both the red alga Pterocladia capillacea (P. capillacea) and the brown alga Dictyopteris membranacea (D. membranacea) were studied for their polysaccharide contents. In both (CWE) and (HWE) extracts. Relatively higher yields were obtained in case of P. capillacea pillacea (2.87 and 6.46%, respectively). The polysaccharide contents of the CWE hydrolyzate of both studied algae analyzed by HPLC were found to be enriched with glucuronic acid, arabinose and glucose, whereas, HWE hydrolyzate were found to be rich in glucuronic acid and fructose. The polysaccharide contents of the CWE and HWE extracts of (D. membranacea) showed appreciable antimicrobial activity in addition to a moderate antitumor activity against HELA (Cervix carcinoma cell line) at IC50 = 9.83 μg/dl, respectively. Whereas the polysaccharide contents of the CWE and HWE extracts of (P. capillacea) exhibited a promising anticoagulant activity.

Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of the Essential Oil of Mentha suaveolens Ehrh

Hydrodistilled oils of the fresh aerial parts of Mentha suaveolens Ehrh. cultivated in Egypt were prepared from samples collected along the four seasons. The percentage yields of these essential oils were 0.50%, 0.52%, 0.60%, and 0.47% of the dry weight for winter, spring, summer, and autumn samples. GC/MS analyses of all samples revealed a qualitative and quantitative variability in the oil composition. The total number of compounds identified was 46 among which 15 were common in all samples. The oxygenated compounds constituted about 45%, 46%, 63%, and 44% of the total composition of the oils for winter, spring, summer, and autumn samples, respectively. Carvone was the major constituent in spring, summer, and autumn samples (about 31%, 56%, and 35%, respectively), while limonene (ca. 26%) was the major constituent of the winter sample followed by carvone (ca. 25%). The essential oil of the highest yield (full-fl owering summer sample), with the highest oxygenated constituents and carvone contents, was screened for certain biological activities. It exhibited analgesic and acute anti-inflammatory activities (75% and 82% relative to indomethacin). It also showed a potent in vivo antioxidant activity (96% relative to vitamin E). In addition, it exerted moderate cytotoxic, hepatoprotective, and in vitro antioxidant activities. Moreover, the oil had a potent antifungal activity against Candida albicans (MIC = 4 μg/ml), Saccharomyces cerevisiae (MIC = 5.2 μg/ml), and Aspergillus niger (MIC = 6.8 μg/ml).

Antidiabetic and Antioxidant Activities of Major Flavonoids of Cynanchum acutum L. (Asclepiadaceae) Growing in Egypt

Seven flavonoids were isolated from the butanol fraction of the methanolic extract of the aerial parts of Cynanchum acutum L. (Asclepiadaceae). All of which have been isolated for the first time from the genus Cynanchum. Their structures were established as quercetin 3-O-β-galacturonopyranoside (1), quercetin 7-O-β-glucopyranoside (2), tamarixtin 3-O-β-galacturonopyranoside (3), kaempferol 3-O-β-galacturonopyranoside (4), 8-hydroxyquercetin 3-O-β-galactopyranoside (5), tamarixtin 3-O-α-rhamnopyranoside (6), and tamarixtin 7-O-α-arabinopyranoside (7) on the basis of their chromatographic properties, chemical and spectroscopic data. The major isolated flavonoids 1, 2 and 3 were found to exhibit significant antioxidant and antidiabetic activities (by measuring blood glucose and insulin levels). This is the first report about the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of compounds 1 - 3.

Citric acid effects on brain and liver oxidative stress in lipopolysaccharide-treated mice

Citric acid is a weak organic acid found in the greatest amounts in citrus fruits. This study examined the effect of citric acid on endotoxin-induced oxidative stress of the brain and liver. Mice were challenged with a single intraperitoneal dose of lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 200 μg/kg). Citric acid was given orally at 1, 2, or 4 g/kg at time of endotoxin injection and mice were euthanized 4 h later. LPS induced oxidative stress in the brain and liver tissue, resulting in marked increase in lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde [MDA]) and nitrite, while significantly decreasing reduced glutathione, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activity. Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) showed a pronounced increase in brain tissue after endotoxin injection. The administration of citric acid (1-2 g/kg) attenuated LPS-induced elevations in brain MDA, nitrite, TNF-α, GPx, and PON1 activity. In the liver, nitrite was decreased by 1 g/kg citric acid. GPx activity was increased, while PON1 activity was decreased by citric acid. The LPS-induced liver injury, DNA fragmentation, serum transaminase elevations, caspase-3, and inducible nitric oxide synthase expression were attenuated by 1-2 g/kg citric acid. DNA fragmentation, however, increased after 4 g/kg citric acid. Thus in this model of systemic inflammation, citric acid (1-2 g/kg) decreased brain lipid peroxidation and inflammation, liver damage, and DNA fragmentation.

New bioactive metabolites from a crown gall induced on an Eucalyptus tereticornis Sm. tree

Applying a bioactivity-guided isolation strategy for the ethanolic extract of crown gall tumours induced on an Eucalyptus tereticornis tree, two new compounds in addition to a known one were isolated. The new compounds were identified as an amino acid derivative named 1-ethyl-6-(1'-methyl-1'-phenylethyl) piperidin-2-one (1) and a lanostane tetracyclic triterpene named 3beta-hydroxy-24-methyllanosta-8,17(20),24(28)-trien-22-oic acid (2), together with stigmasterol-3-O-glucoside (3). The three compounds exhibited significant cytotoxic activity against two human cell lines, breast (MCF7) and colon (HCT116), with IC50 values of 1.01, 1.54, and 2.15 microg/ml, respectively, against MCF7 and 3.49, 3.83, and 3.39 microg/ ml, respectively, against HCT116. Furthermore, in rats elevated levels of blood cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein (LDLc) were significantly reduced, while the level of high-density lipoprotein (HDLc) was significantly increased by administration of the ethanolic extract as well as of 3. These results support a correlation between the reduction of blood cholesterol levels and improvement of colorectal cancer.

Brain and liver oxidative stress after sertraline and haloperidol treatment in mice

BACKGROUND

Haloperidol is a classic antipsychotic drug known for its propensity to cause extrapyramidal side effects. Sertraline is an antidepressant drug which has been reported to cause extrapyramidal symptoms. We aimed to see whether treatment with sertraline would worsen the effect of haloperidol on oxidative stress in the brains of mice.

METHODS

Sertraline (10 or 20 mg/kg), haloperidol (2 mg/kg), haloperidol combined with sertraline or saline was administered daily via the subcutaneous route and mice were euthanized 10 days later when biochemical assays were carried out. Malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), nitric oxide (nitrite) levels, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), catalase and paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activities were determined in the brain and liver.

RESULTS

Sertraline monotherapy did not alter GSH, MDA, TAC or nitrite in the brain. Haloperidol decreased GSH and TAC and increased MDA and nitrite. The combined treatment with sertraline and haloperidol resulted in increased MDA, but to a lesser extent than haloperidol monotherapy. A significant increase in GSH and TAC and decreased nitrite was observed after the combination treatment was compared with haloperidol monotherapy. Catalase activity decreased with sertraline or haloperidol treatment. PON1 activity decreased with sertraline and haloperidol monotherapy and showed a further decrease with the combination therapy compared with haloperidol monotherapy. AChE activity decreased after haloperidol and increased with the combination treatment compared with haloperidol monotherapy. In the liver, GSH was unaltered after sertraline, haloperidol or their combination. MDA increased with sertraline, haloperidol and their combination. TAC decreased after combination therapy. Nitric oxide increased after sertraline, haloperidol or their combination. PON1 activity decreased with sertraline, haloperidol and with sertraline-haloperidol co-treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Sertraline did not worsen brain oxidative stress-induced with haloperidol, however, liver peroxidation increased. Sertraline decreased catalase and PON1 activity which might expose the brain to further oxidative insults.

Flavonoid glycosides and pharmacological activity of Amphilophium paniculatum

BACKGROUND

Nothing is reported on Amphilophium paniculatum (L.) Kunth. This study aimed at investigation of chemical constituents of the leaves of Amphilophium paniculatum, grown in Egypt, in addition to pharmacological evaluation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Isolation of a new compound, along with 5 known flavonoids. Pharmacological activities were carried out on different extracts of A. paniculatum leaves.

RESULTS

Identification of a new flavone glycoside, acacetin 8-C-β-D- glucopyranosy l-(1→2)-α-L-rhamnopyranoside (1) in addition to 5 known flavonoids. The 70% ethanol crud extract and its successive chloroform, ethyl acetate, and 100% ethanol extracts showed significant anti-inflammatoryactivity,analgesic effect, antipyretic activity, antioxidant activity, and anti-hyperglycemic activity. Determination of the median lethal dose (LD50) revealed that the different extracts were safe.

The effect of antidepressant drugs on thioacetamide-induced oxidative stress

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of the serotonin selective reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) fluoxetine and sertraline and the tricyclic drug imipramine on oxidative stress in the brain and liver caused by thioacetamide in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Drugs were administered orally once daily at doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg for two weeks prior to intraperitoneal injection of thioacetamide (300 mg/kg). Rats were euthanized 24 h after thioacetamide. Reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide were measured in brain and liver. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were measured in serum and histopathological evaluation of liver injury was performed.

RESULTS

The administration of thioacetamide increased MDA by 151.8% and 161.2%, increased nitric oxide by 57.2% and 63.9% and decreased GSH by -40.6% and -67% in the brain and liver, respectively. Thioacetamide markedly increased serum ALT, AST and ALP by 277.8, 80.8 and 121%, respectively. In the brain, MDA was decreased in rats treated with fluoxetine or sertraline. The level of GSH increased by fluoxetine and by the higher dose of sertraline. Nitric oxide in brain was unchanged by fluoxetine, but increased after sertraline at 20 mg/kg. Brain MDA was increased by imipramine, which also decreased brain nitrite level. In the liver, fluoxetine or sertraline treatment increased GSH and nitrite levels. MDA was also increased by either drug. The drugs markedly decreased ALT, but increased ALP in serum. Meanwhile, imipramine decreased liver nitric oxide levels (at the lower dose only -32.9%), markedly increased hepatic GSH, but did not change MDA level. Serum ALT decreased by imipramine (but AST and ALP showed no change). Histopathological and histochemical examinations indicated that thioacetamide-induced liver injury was not decreased after treatment with the antidepressant drugs.

CONCLUSIONS

In thioacetamide-treated rats, pretreatment with the SSRIs drugs fluoxetine and sertraline is associated with decreased lipid peroxidation in brain; liver peroxidation, however, is increased. Imipramine displayed opposite effects. The thioacetamide-induced hepatic damage was not reduced by fluoxetine, sertraline or imipramine.  

Neuroprotective and hepatoprotective effects of micronized purified flavonoid fraction (Daflon®) in lipopolysaccharide-treated rats

Micronized purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF, Daflon®) is a phlebotonic drug widely used in chronic venous or lymphatic insufficiency. We aimed to investigate the effects of MPFF on hepatic and brain oxidative stress and on liver injury caused by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in rats. MPFF (4.5, 9, or 18 mg/kg) or saline was administered orally for two days prior to intraperitoneal (i.p.) LPS (300 μg/kg) and at time of LPS administration. Rats were euthanized 4 h after LPS injection. The administration of LPS increased oxidative stress in brain and liver tissue. Malondialdehyde (MDA) increased by 193.5 and 191.8%, reduced glutathione (GSH) decreased by 73.8 and 70.8% and nitric oxide increased by 118.2 and 151.7% in the brain and liver, respectively. Serum paraoxonase 1 (PON1) activity decreased by 42.6%. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were raised by 101.8, 93.6, and 223.2%, respectively. Rats treated with MPFF at 9 and 18 mg/kg showed decreased brain MDA (27.5-34%), nitrite (25.5-41%) and increased GSH (27.2-74.1%). In the liver, MDA decreased by 16.4-59.8%, nitrite decreased by 54.7-56.7%, and GSH increased by 15.2-70.5% with MPFF at 4.5, 9, or 18 mg/kg, respectively. Serum PON1 activity showed 41-65.9% increments with MPFF. Significant reductions in serum AST, ALT, and ALP were seen after treatment with MPFF. Moreover, the degree of histological damage, expression of the inducible form of nitric oxide synthase and the apoptotic enzyme caspase-3 in the liver were substantially reduced. MPFF thus prevented the increased oxidative stress and inflammation in brain and liver as well as the liver dysfunction caused by endotoxemia in the rat.

Bioactive constituents from Harpephyllum caffrum Bernh. and Rhus coriaria L

Background:

The leaf ethanol extract of Harpephyllum caffrum Bernh. has evidenced medicinal value due to its hepatoprotective activity. It demonstrated inhibitory effects on test standard microbes approximated to 40% the potency of ofloxacin and fluconazole. The same extract evidenced in vitro cytotoxicity on human cell lines, liver carcinoma HEPG2, larynx carcinoma HEP2, and colon carcinoma HCT116 cell lines when compared to doxorubicin.

Materials and Methods:

Fractionation of the leaf ethanol extract led to the isolation of the polyphenols, ethyl gallate, and quercetin-3-O-rhamnoside, a hydrocarbon, hendecane, the fatty acid ester, methyl linoleate, and four triterpenoids, betulonic acid, 3-acetyl-methyl betulinate, lupenone and lupeol for the first time, in addition to the previously reported phenol acids and flavonoids, gallic acid, methyl gallate, quercetin, kaempferol, kaempferol-3-O-rhamnoside, kaempferol-3-O-galactoside, apigenin-7-O-glucoside, and quercetin-3-O-arabinoside.

Results:

The ethanol extract of the fruit of the genetically related Rhus coriaria L., known as sumac, afforded protocatechuic acid, isoquercitrin, and myricetin-3-O-α-L-rhamnoside from the fruits for the first time, in addition to the previously reported phenol acids and flavonoids, gallic acid, methyl gallate, kaempferol, and quercetin.

Conclusion:

The leaf ethanol extract of H. caffrum Bernh. exhibited variable anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic activities, besides the hepatoprotective, in vitro cytotoxic and anti-microbial activities.

Amelioration of the haloperidol-induced memory impairment and brain oxidative stress by cinnarizine

Haloperidol is a classic antipsychotic drug known for its propensity to cause extrapyramidal symptoms and impaired memory, owing to blockade of striatal dopamine D2 receptors. Cinnarizine is a calcium channel blocker with D2 receptor blocking properties which is widely used in treatment of vertiginous disorders. The present study aimed to see whether cinnarizine would worsen the effect of haloperidol on memory function and on oxidative stress in mice brain. Cinnarizine (5, 10 or 20 mg/kg), haloperidol, or haloperidol combined with cinnarizine was administered daily via the subcutaneous route and mice were examined on weekly basis for their ability to locate a submerged plate in the water maze test. Mice were euthanized 30 days after starting drug injection. Malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) and nitric oxide (nitrite/nitrate) were determined in brain. Haloperidol substantially impaired water maze performance. The mean time taken to find the escape platform (latency) was significantly delayed by haloperidol (2 mg/kg, i.p.) on weeks 1-8 of the test, compared with saline control group. In contrast, those treated with haloperidol and cinnarizine showed significantly shorter latencies, which indicated that learning had occurred immediately. Haloperidol resulted in increased MDA in cortex, striatum, cerebellum and midbrain. GSH decreased in cortex, striatum and cerebellum and nitric oxide increased in cortex. Meanwhile, treatment with cinnarizine (20 mg/kg) and haloperidol resulted in significant decrease in MDA cortex, striatum, cerebellum and midbrain and an increase in GSH in cortex and striatum, compared with haloperidol group. These data suggest that cinnarizine improves the haloperidol induced brain oxidative stress and impairment of learning and memory in the water maze test in mice.

The effect of different antidepressant drugs on oxidative stress after lipopolysaccharide administration in mice

This study investigated the effect of the serotonin selective reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) fluoxetine, sertraline, fluvoxamine and the tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) impiramine on oxidative stress in brain and liver induced by lipopolysaccharide administration in mice. Each drug was administered subcutaneously at doses of 10 or 20 mg/kg, for two days prior to intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of lipopolysaccharide E (LPS: 200 µg/kg). Mice were euthanized 4 h after administration of the lipopolysaccharide. Lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde; MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) and nitric oxide (nitrite/nitrate) concentrations were measured in brain and liver. Results: The administration of lipopolysaccharide increased oxidative stress in brain and liver; it increased brain MDA by 36.1 and liver MDA by 159.8 %. GSH decreased by 34.1 % and 64.8 % and nitric oxide increased by 78.7 % and 103.8 % in brain and liver, respectively. In brain, MDA decreased after the administration of sertraline and by the lower dose of fluoxetine or fluvoxamine, but increased after the higher dose of imipramine. Reduced glutathione increased after sertraline, fluvoxamine and the lower dose of fluoxetine or imipramine. Nitric oxide decreased by sertraline, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine and by the lower dose of imipramine. In the liver, all drugs decreased MDA and increased GSH level. Nitric oxide is decreased by sertraline, fluvoxamine and by the lower dose of fluoxetine or imipramine. It is concluded that, during mild systemic inflammatory illness induced by peripheral bacterial endotoxin injection, the SSRIs fluoxetine, sertraline and fluvoxamine reduced, while the TCA impiramine increased oxidative stress induced in the brain. The SSRIs as well as imipramine reduced oxidative stress due to lipopolysaccharide in liver tissue.

The effects of trimetazidine on lipopolysaccharide-induced oxidative stress in mice

The effects of trimetazidine, a novel anti-ischemic agent, on the development of oxidative stress induced in mice with lipopolysaccharide endotoxin were investigated. The drug was administered orally once daily at doses of 1.8, 3.6 or 7.2 mg/kg for two days prior to intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of lipopolysaccharide E (200 μg/kg) and at time of endotoxin administration. Mice were euthanized 4 h after administration of the lipopolysaccharide. Lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde; MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) and nitric oxide (nitrite/nitrate) concentrations were measured in brain and liver. The administration of lipopolysaccharide increased oxidative stress in both the brain and liver tissue. MDA increased by 33.9 and 107.1 %, GSH decreased by 23.9 and 84.3 % and nitric oxide increased 70.3 and 48.4 % in the brain and liver, respectively. Compared with the lipopolysaccharide control group, brain MDA decreased by 26.2 and 36.7 %, while GSH increased by 18.2 and 25.8 % after the administration of trimetazidine at 3.6 and 7.2 mg/kg, respectively. Brain nitric oxide decreased by 45.3, 50.8 and 57.0 % by trimetazidine at 1.8, 3.6 and 7.2 mg/kg, respectively. In the liver, MDA decreased by 18.7, 30.7 and 49.4 % and GSH increased by 150.3, 204.8 and 335.4 % following trimetazidine administration at 1.8, 3.6 and 7.2 mg/kg. Meanwhile, nitric oxide decreased by 17.3 % by 7.2 mg/kg of trimetazidine. These results indicate that administration of trimetazidine in the presence of mild systemic inflammatory response alleviates oxidative stress in the brain and liver.

A new hepatoprotective flavone glycoside from the flowers of Onopordum alexandrinum growing in Egypt

A bioactivity-guided fractionation of the ethyl acetate fraction of the flowers of Onopordum alexandrinum L. (Asteraceae) yielded a new flavonoidal glycoside designated as acacetin-7-O-galacturonide (9), alongside with nine known flavonoids; 6-methoxy-apigenin (hispidulin) (1), acacetin (2), apigenin (3), luteolin (4), kaempferol (5), eriodictyol (6), apigenin-7-O-glucoside (7), luteolin-7-O-glucoside (8), and kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside (10). The compounds were assayed for their hepatoprotective activity against CCl4-induced hepatic cell damage in rats and free radical scavenging activity using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Compounds 4, 6, 9, and 10 have not been previously reported from flowers of O. alexandrinum L., and this is the first report of acacetin-7-O-galacturonide (9) in nature which has also shown significant hepatoprotective and free radical scavenging effects. The isolated compounds were identified using different spectroscopic methods (UV, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, HMQC, HMBC, and COSY).

A sulphated flavone glycoside from Livistona australis and its antioxidant and cytotoxic activity

A new flavone glycoside tricin 7-O-β-glucopyranoside-2″-sulphate sodium salt along with 14 known flavonoid compounds were isolated and identified from the aqueous methanol extract of Livistona australis leaves. Their structures were established on the basis of extensive NMR (¹H, ¹³C, HSQC and H-H COSY) and ESIMS data. Antioxidant and cytotoxicity properties of the methanol extract of the leaves as well as the new compound were investigated.

Chemical and biological investigation of some Clerodendrum species cultivated in Egypt

CONTEXT

Phytochemical investigation of Clerodendrum chinense (Osbeck) Mabberley (Lamiaceae) cultivated in Egypt and evaluation for anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic effects of the methanol and chloroform extracts of Clerodendrum chinense, Clerodendrum indicum (L.) Kuntze, Clerodendrum glabrum E. Meyer.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic effects of the methanol and chloroform extracts of Clerodendrum species under investigation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Air-dried powdered leaves of C. chinense were extracted with MeOH 80%. This extract was fractionated with successive portions of chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol. By further fractionation through silica gel, polyamide and reversed phase column chromatography several compounds were isolated which were elucidated by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectroscopy. For biological study, the powdered leaves of C. chinense, C. indicum and C. glabrum were extracted by chloroform and then extracted with methanol. The acute anti-inflammatory effect of tested extracts of the leaves of Clerodendrum species under investigation was estimated by carrageenan-induced rat paw edema. Antipyretic effect was evaluated and compared with that of paracetamol as standard using the yeast-induced hyperthermia method on female albino rats. Analgesic effect was evaluated and compared with that of Novalgin (metamizol sodium) as standard using an electric current anxious stimulus.

RESULTS

Verbascoside, isoverbascoside, decaffeoylverbascoside, hispidulin, lupeol and icariside B5 were isolated from the leaves of C. chinense for the first time. Cornoside and rengyolone were also isolated. The methanol extract of the leaves of C. chinense and verbascoside showed significant analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects.

CONCLUSION

The present study provided a scientific validation of the traditional claims suggested for C. chinense.

Secondary metabolites and bioactivities of Myrtus communis

BACKGROUND

Myrtus species are characterized by the presence of phenolic acids, flavonoids, tannins, volatile oils and fatty acids. They are remedies for variety of ailments. This study therefore investigated medicinal effects of Myrtus communis L.

METHODS

Bioactivity studies of Myrtus communis L. leaves were carried out on volatile oil, 7% methanol and aqueous extracts and the isolated compounds myricetin 3-O-β-glucopyranoside, myricetin 3-O-∝-rhamnopyranoside and gallic acid.

RESULTS

Determination of the median lethal dose (LD(50)) revealed that the volatile oil, alcoholic and aqueous extracts were practically nontoxic and highly safe as no lethality was observed. The tested materials (volatile oil, alcoholic and aqueous extracts, myricetin 3-O-β-glucopyranoside, myricetin 3-O-∝-rhamnopyranoside and gallic acid) showed significant antihyperglycemic, anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects as compared with control groups and reference drugs.

CONCLUSION

Administration of extracts of M. communis leaves could be safe at the dose used in this study.

Effect of trazodone and nefazodone on hepatic injury induced by carbon tetrachloride

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of the serotonin antagonists and reuptake inhibitors trazodone and nefazodone on liver injury induced by treatment with carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4)) in rats. Liver damage was induced in rats by oral administration of CCl(4) (2.8 mL/kg in olive oil). Nefazodone (5, 10, or 20 mg/kg), trazodone (5, 10, or 20 mg/kg), silymarin (25 mg/kg), or saline (control) was orally administered once daily in association with CCl(4) and for one week thereafter. Liver damage was assessed by determining serum enzyme activities and hepatic histopathology. In CCl(4)-treated rats, treatment with trazodone (5, 10, 20 mg/ kg), reduced serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels by 24, 38.6, and 49.3%. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were decreased by 18.1, 37.9, and 42.2%, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels decreased by 25.7, 32.6, and 39.7%, respectively. Nefazodone (5, 10, 20 mg/kg) in a dose-dependent manner reduced the elevation of ALT levels by 15.6, 36.5, and 45.9%, AST levels by 16.7, 17.3, and 43%, and ALP by 30.5, 37.5, and 42.9%, respectively. Silymarin treatment reduced the levels of ALT, AST, and ALP by 56.1-62.8, 56.0-64.0, and 50.1-58.2%, respectively. The administration of CCl(4) decreased levels of reduced glutathione in blood compared to the vehicle-treated group. In CCl(4)-treated rats, reduced glutathione levels increased after trazodone in a dose-dependent manner. Reduced glutathione was increased by nefazodone at concentrations of 5 and 10 mg/kg, but not after 20 mg/kg nefazodone. Reduced glutathione levels were increased by the administration of silymarin to near normal values. The administration of CCl(4) resulted in a marked increase in nitric oxide levels in serum (the concentrations of nitrite/nitrate) as compared to the control group. Treatment with trazodone or nefazodone caused a dose-dependent decrease in serum nitric oxide levels compared with the CCl(4) control group. Histopathological and histomorphometric examinations also indicated that CCl(4)-induced liver injury was less severe in trazodone and nefazodone-treated groups than in the CCl(4) control groups. Metabolic perturbations caused by CCl(4) in the form of decreased intracellular protein and mucopolysaccharide content in hepatocytes were improved by treatment with trazodone and nefazodone. It is concluded that administration of serotonin antagonists and reuptake inhibitors trazodone and nefazodone is associated with a reduction in experimental liver injury induced by CCl(4).

Hepatoprotective effects of misoprostol and silymarin on carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic damage in rats

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of misoprostol, silymarin or the co-administration of misoprostol + silymarin on the carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4))-induced hepatic injury in rats. Misoprostol (10, 100, 1000 microg/kg), silymarin (25 mg/kg) or misoprostol (100 microg/kg) + silymarin (25 mg/kg) was given once daily orally simultaneously with CCl(4) and for 15 days thereafter. The results showed that misoprostol (10, 100 or 1000 microg/kg) conferred significant protection against the hepatotoxic actions of CCl(4) in rats, reducing serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels by 24.7%, 42.6% and 49.4%, respectively compared with controls. Misoprostol, given at 100 or 1000 microg/kg, decreased aspartate aminotransferase (AST) by 28 and 43.6% and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) by 19.3% and 53.4% respectively. Meanwhile, silymarin reduced ALT, AST and ALP levels by 62.7%, 66.1% and 65.1% respectively. The co-administration of misoprostol (100 microg/kg) and silymarin (25 mg/kg) resulted in 61.4%, 66.1% and 57.5% reduction in ALT, AST and ALP levels respectively. Histopathological alterations and depletion of hepatocyte glycogen and DNA content by CCl(4) were markedly reduced after treatment with misoprostol, silymarin or misoprostol + silymarin. Image analysis of liver specimens revealed a marked reduction in liver necrosis; area of damage: 32.4%, 24% and 10.2% after misoprostol (10, 100 or 1000 microg/kg), 7.2% after silymarin and 10.9% after treatment with misoprostol 100 microg/kg + silymarin, compared with CCl(4) control group (46.7%). These results indicate that treatment with misoprostol protects against hepatocellular necrosis induced by CCl(4). This study suggests a potential therapeutic use for misoprostol in liver injury.