Residual Aqueous Fraction Research Articles

Antidiarrhoeal activity of fractions of aqueous extract of Mangifera indica L. leaves in castor oil-induced diarrhoeal female Wistar rats

Background: The aqueous extract of Mangifera indica leaves (AEMIL) has been substantiated for its antidiarrhoeal activity without information on the antidiarrhoeal-rich solvent fraction.Aim: This study evaluated the antidiarrhoeal activity of solvent–solvent fractions from M. indica leaves in female Wistar rats.Setting: This is laboratory animal-based phytopharmacological investigation conducted at the University of Ilorin.Methods: Aqueous extract of M. indica leaves was successfully fractionated to give ethyl acetate fraction (EAF), n-butanol fraction (NBF) and aqueous residual fraction (ARF). The fractions at 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight (bw) were screened for antidiarrhoeal activity. The antidiarrhoeal index (ADI) was also computed.Results: Ethyl acetate fraction, NBF and ARF significantly (p 0.05) extended the onset of diarrhoea, reduced fecal parameters (number, weight and water content of feaces and number of diarrhoeal feaces), masses and volumes of intestinal fluid, distance covered by charcoal meal, peristaltic index and its inhibition, with ARF exhibiting the most pronounced effects. The ADI at 25 and 100 mg/kg bw (equivalent doses of 14.09 and 56.3 mg/kg bw, respectively) of ARF which were 55.19 and 49.87, respectively were similar to 48.50 produced by loperamide/atropine sulphate. The ADI of 32.36 and 10.18 for 100 mg/kg bw each (equivalent of 26.41 and 17.24 mg/kg bw) of EAF and NBF respectively, were lower than that of loperamide/atropine sulphate (48.50).Conclusion: Of all the fractions, the 25 mg/kg bw of ARF produced the most profound antidiarrhoeal activity via anti-motility and anti-secretory mechanisms.

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ACTIVITY AND PHYTOCHEMISTRY OF EXTRACTS FROM THE ROOT BARK OF CALOTROPIS PROCERA (AIT.) R. BR. HEPATOPROTECTIVE MEDICINAL PLANT FROM BURKINA FASO

Objective: This study aimed to assess the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in vitro of Calotropis procera root bark.
 Methods: Anti-inflammatory activities of the ethanolic extract of root bark of C. procera and its fractions were evaluated on lipoxygenase and xanthine oxidase (XO). Antioxidant activity was evaluated by trapping the 2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), by the reducing power ferric reducing antioxidant power. Inhibitory powers of lipid peroxidation and of degradation of D-deoxyribose as well as the contents of phenolic and triterpene compounds were also evaluated.
 Results: Ethanolic extract showed interesting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Butanol fraction which is one of richest fractions for flavonoids (17.38±0.13 mg EQ/10 g extracts) showed the best percentages for inhibitions of XO (60.14±4.89%), degradation of D-deoxyribose (81.04±0.77%), and the DPPH radical (71.43±6.35%). Dichloromethane fraction which is the richest in triterpenes (1067.02±5.77 mg UAE/g extracts) showed the best percentages for inhibitions of lipoxygenase (56.45±1.15%) and of lipid peroxidation (82.45±0.73%). Ethyl acetate and residual aqueous fractions, respectively, showed the best activities of inhibiting H2O2 (75.38±0.76%) and for iron-reducing capacity (23.51±1.69 mg EAA/g extracts).
 Conclusion: Ethanolic extract from C. procera root bark and its fractions, their particular the butanol and dichloromethane one, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which could prevent or attenuate liver injury and its complications.

Identification and characterization of anti-diabetic principle in Senna alata (Linn.) flower using alloxan-induced diabetic male Wistar rats

Ethno-pharmacological relevanceThe age-long folkloric use of Senna alata flower (SAF) was recently substantiated with scientific evidence. However, the study did not account for the anti-diabetic principle(s) in SAF. Aim of the studyThe study aimed to identify and characterize the bioactive principle(s) responsible for the anti-diabetic activity in SAF. Materials and methodsNinety-one male Wistar rats were used for the two phases of this study. In phase 1, forty-two of these were allotted into six groups (A-F) of seven rats each. Animals in group A received distilled water while those in groups B–F were made diabetic by treatment with 150 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) of alloxan. Group B received 0.5 mL of distilled water; C, D and E were treated each with 75 mg/kg b.w. of ethyl acetate, n-butanol and aqueous residual fractions of SAF, while F received 2.5 mg/kg b.w. of glibenclamide. In the second phase, forty-nine rats were assigned into seven groups (A-G) of seven rats each. Group A received distilled water. Animals in Groups B-G were also made diabetic by alloxan treatment. B received 0.5 mL of distilled water; C, D, E and F were treated with 5.77, 25.96, 15.40, 27.87 mg/kg b.w (equivalent dose of 75 mg/kg b.w.) of sub-fractions obtained from the ethyl acetate fraction of SAF respectively whereas G received 2.5 mg/kg b.w. of glibenclamide. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), serum lipids, albumin, globulin, liver glycogen, urine ketone, hexokinase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities, α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activities and cardiac function indices were evaluated using standard methods. Compounds D, E and F isolated from ethyl acetate sub-fraction B were evaluated for in vitro anti-diabetic activity. The structure of the anti-diabetic compound was identified using FTIR, 1H-NMR, 1³C-NMR, HCOSY, HSQC and HMBC. Data were subjected to Analysis of Variance and Duncan Multiple Range Test at p < 0.05. ResultsAlloxan treatment increased the levels of FBG, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, VLDL-cholesterol, urine ketone and cardiac function indices and reduced the levels of globulin, albumin, HDL-cholesterol, globulin, liver glycogen, hexokinase and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities. Ethyl acetate fraction and sub-fraction B reversed the level and/or activities of these biochemical indices to levels and/or activities that compared favourably with the distilled water treated non-diabetic animals. Of the three compounds (D, E and F) that were obtained from the sub-fraction B, compound E which was Emodin (1, 3, 8-trihydroxy-6-methylanthraquinone) produced the highest α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activities. ConclusionEmodin is one of the bioactive constituents present in Senna alata flower.

Anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of ethanol extract and fractions of Morus mesozygia Stapf (Moraceae) leaves and its underlying mechanisms in rodents

Ethnopharmacological relevanceMorus mesozygia Stapf (Moraceae), commonly known as African mulberry, is traditionally used for the treatment of inflammatory disorders such as rheumatism and dermatitis. AimThis work aimed to evaluate the anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of its ethanol (EEMm) extract, and ethylacetate fraction (EAFMm). MethodsThe anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory effect of ethanol extracts of M. mesozygia (EEMm), and its ethylacetate (EAFMm) and residual aqueous fraction (RAFMm) was evaluated in hotplate, acetic acid and formalin tests and as well in membrane stabilizing assay and carrageenan-induced paw oedema models. Mechanism of anti-inflammation of EAFMm was investigated in the carrageenan-induced air-pouch model. ResultsIn the hot plate test of nociception, only the EAFMm showed significant (p < 0.05) anti-nociceptive activity. The extract and fractions significantly reduced number of writhing with EAFMm (400 mg/kg) showing highest inhibition (66.5%) in the acetic acid-induced writhing in mice. EEMm and EAFMm (400 mg/kg) significantly reduced the paw licking time in the early and late phases of the formalin test. The extract and fractions showed good membrane stabilizing activity comparable to indomethacin. EAFMm (100 and 400 mg/kg) showed the highest inhibition of paw oedema (53.4% and 58.1%) in the carrageenan-induced paw oedema model. The EAFMm (100 and 400 mg/kg) reduced exudate volume relative to carrageenan-control (2.64 ± 0.22, 2.08 ± 0.15 vs 3.83 ± 0.18 mL) and neutrophils (8.98 ± 1.36, 8.00 ± 0.22 vs 20.51 ± 1.14) in carrageenan-induced pouch. EAFMm significantly reduced exudate volume, pro-inflammatory cytokines and the expression of COX-2 and NFκB. ConclusionM. mesozygia leaves demonstrated anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities by suppressing oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory cytokines, cyclooxygenase-2, and nuclear factor kappa B.

Antidepressant-like effects of methanol leaves extract of &lt;I&gt;Leptadenia hastata &lt;/I&gt;(Asclepidiaceae) in mice

Depression is a serious disorder that affects people in all communities across the world, a major cause of disability and morbidity worldwide. The drugs used in its management are associated with adverse effects and delayed response, hence it’s important to look for antidepressant plants with proven advantages and favourable benefits. Leptadenia hastata (Pers.) Decne belongs to the family Asclepidiaceae and is widely used in Tropical Africa as a vegetable due to its low toxicity and therapeutic benefits, it is used in the treatment of evil spirit, psychiatric disorders and hallucination. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antidepressant-like effect of the methanol leaves extract of Leptadenia hastata (LHME) and its fractions. Phytochemical screening and acute toxicity (LD50) study were done using standard procedures. Antidepressant-like effects of the LHME and its fractions was evaluated using the tail suspension test (TST) and forced swim test (FST). The intraperitoneal (i.p) median lethal dose was estimated to be &gt; 5000 mg/kg. The LHME and Residual aqueous fraction (RAF) at dose 250-1000 mg/kg are significantly (P&lt;0.05) and dose-dependently, while n-butanol fraction (NBF) at 400 mg/kg decreased the duration of immobility in the TST and FST respectively. There was no significant change in the number of squares crossed in the OFT. In conclusion, the L. hastata plant possesses antidepressant-like effects.&#x0D; Keywords: Depression, Forced swim test, Leptadenia hastata, Medicinal plant and Tail suspension test

Phytochemical analysis, antipropulsive and antilymphoma activities of leaves extract of Annona cherimola miller

Background: Diarrhea and cancer are significant health problems worldwide. Annona cherimola Mill. (Annonaceae) is a fruit tree extensively used in Mexican traditional medicine for the treatment of diarrhea and cancer. Objectives: The present work reports the identification of flavonol glycosides present in the ethanol crude extract using high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD). Materials and Methods: The identification of flavonoids was made by comparing their retention times and ultraviolet spectra with those standards. The crude extract, dichloromethane, and aqueous residual (AR) fractions were tested for their antipropulsive and antilymphoma activities. Results: The results revealed high levels of three flavonoid glycosides (rutin, nicotiflorin, and narcissin), especially rutin (24.5 mg/g of extract). The antipropulsive and antilymphoma activities of the leaf extract and subsequent fractions showed that the ethanol extract of the leaves of A. cherimola is cursive and AR fraction exhibited the best biological effects in both assays. Conclusion: The HPLC-DAD method used in this work enables the determination of rutin as a major flavonol glycoside of the leaves of A. cherimola . In addition, it can be suggested that rutin may play an important role in the biological properties of A. cherimola.

Preliminary screening to assess the antimicrobial activities of extracts of evergreen woody species from South Korea against Staphylococcus aureus

This study aimed to screen for plants with antimicrobial potential among the evergreen woody species of South Korea that are used for horticulture and landscaping and to provide basic information about plants with proven antimicrobial activity to underpin future research. The plant materials were extracted under various conditions, and the antimicrobial activities of the extracts were evaluated by agar diffusion assay. The screening tests demonstrated that the crude extracts of 43 species had inhibitory effects against S. aureus. The inhibitory activities of four species (Elaeocarpus sylvestris, Camellia japonica, Cleyera japonica, and Quercus salicina) were relatively higher than that of the synthetic antimicrobial agents methylparaben and phenoxyethanol. The highest inhibitory activity was observed with the leaf extracts (extracted with methanol for 30 minutes) of E. sylvestris, based on induction of the largest inhibition zone of 23.3 mm in size. In addition, solvent fractions of E. sylvestris were evaluated. The largest inhibitory zone of 23.1 mm was observed for the n-butanol fraction, which is likely to contain effective compounds that exhibit inhibitory activity against S. aureus. In contrast, n-hexane and residual aqueous fractions showed no antimicrobial activity. Overall, our findings confirm that evergreen woody plants native to South Korea have potential antimicrobial activity.

Secondary metabolites and biological properties of Annona muricata

Annona muricata L., Annonaceae, is extensively used in Mexican traditional medicine for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes mellitus, and as antitumor. The ethanol extract of the leaves from A. muricata was suspended in 10% ethanol water and fractionated by organic solvent extraction with chloroform. The chloroform and aqueous residual fractions were tested for antiprotozoal, antipropulsive, antihyperglycemic, and antilymphoma activities, as well as brine shrimp lethality. While for the antiprotozoal, antilymphoma, and antihiperglycemic activities as well as brine shrimp lethality the chloroform fraction was the most active, the aqueous residual fraction provided better result for the antipropulsive activity. The aqueous residual and chloroform fractions were purified by chromatographic methods to give rutin, nicotinflorin, narcissin, and cis-reticulatacin, as well as β-sitosterol.

Antidiabetic and antioxidant potential of Alnus nitida leaves in alloxan induced diabetic rats.

Leaves of Alnus nitida are used by local communities for the management of diabetes and in inflammatory disorders. Powder of shade dried leaves of A. nitida was extracted with methanol (ANME) and fractionated in escalating polarity i.e n-hexane (ANHE), chloroform (ANCE), ethyl acetate (ANEE) and soluble residual aqueous fraction (ANAE). The extract/fractions were evaluated for antidiabetic in vitro assays; α-amylase, α-glucosidase and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4). The in vivo investigations were carried out on ANEE and ANAE (100mg/kg; 200mg/kg, p.o.) in alloxan (125mg/kg i.p.) induced hyperglycemic rats. Serum analysis was performed on liver, pancreas and kidney function markers. Analysis of antioxidant enzymes and genotoxic studies were carried out on pancreas, liver and kidneys tissues. GC-MS analysis was performed on ANME whereas HPLC analysis was carried out on ANME, ANEE and ANAE. Preliminary in vitro assays indicated appreciable antidiabetic activity of ANEE and ANAE against α-amylase, α-glucosidase and DPP-4 assay. Furthermore, in vivo antidiabetic effect of ANEE and ANAE was inveterate by anti-hyperglycemic action in normal glucose loaded and diabetic glucose loaded animals. Single dose of alloxan (125mg/kg) decreased the level of insulin and high density lipoprotein while raised the level of amylase and lipase, ALT, AST, total lipids, triglycerides, cholesterol, creatinine, BUN, CPK, CK-Mb in serum. Concentration of H2O2, lipid peroxidation (TBARS) and nitrite was increased (P<0.05) whereas level of tissue protein, glutathione content (GSH) and antioxidant enzymes decreased in pancreas, liver and kidneys as compared to control group. Administration of ANEE and ANAE for 14 days after induction of diabetes decreased the hyperglycemia and restored the level of these parameters. Histopathological and genotoxic studies also endorsed the defensive strategies of ANEE and ANAE. GC-MS analysis of ANME demonstrated the presence of antidiabetic constituents i.e. linalool, Vitamin E and phytol. Results obtained in this study suggests antidiabetic and antioxidant abilities and provides the scientific proof of the folklore medicine.

Neuropharmacological Activity of Various Fractions Obtained from Solanum aethiopicum (Linn.) Fruit in Mice.

Background: Solanum aethiopicum (L.), family Solanaceae, is known as garden eggs. The fruit is used in the treatment of insomnia, diabetes and constipation. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate anxiolytic-like activity of fractions obtained from crude methanol extract of Solanum aethiopicum fruit. Method: Acute toxicity testing was conducted according to the OECD guidelines 420 via oral and intraperitoneal routes (ip). n-Hexane (HF), chloroform (CHF), ethyl-acetate (EAF), n-butanol (BF) and residual aqueous fraction (RAF) at doses of 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg ip were experimented using the open field, elevated plus maze, staircase, light dark box and hole-board tests. Results: Results: In open field test, there was statistically significant increase in frequency of central square entry by EAF 25mg/kg, 50mg/kg and 100mg/kg and RAF 25mg/kg, 50mg/kg and 100mg/kg all at p&lt;0.05 compared to distilled water (D/W) group. Elevated plus maze test showed statistically significant increases in open arm entry and duration by CHF 25mg/kg, RAF 25mg/kg and 50mg/kg again at p&lt;0.05. Also, in the staircase test, statistically significant decrease in frequency of rearing with no effect on step climbing was observed by RAF 25mg/kg (p&lt; 0.05) compared to D/W. Light and dark box test produced increased light box entry and duration by EAF 25mg/kg, RAF 25mg/kg and 50mg/ kg at p&lt;0.05. Furthermore, the hole -board test showed statistically significant increases in number of head dips by EAF 50mg/kg and 100mg/kg as well as RAF 25mg/kg, 50mg/kg and 100 mg/kg at p&lt;0.05. Conclusion: The fractions obtained from Solanum aethiopicum fruits possesses anxiolytic-like activity.

Hepatoprotective Effects of the Leaves of Agauria salicifolia against Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury in Mice

Agauria salicifolia (Ericaceae) is a medicinal plant traditionally used for the treatment of liver ailments. The present study investigates the hepatoprotective effect of the residual aqueous fraction (RAF) of Agauria salicifolia on acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver damage. The ethanol extract obtained as maceration of the dried leaves, was fractionated into hexane, ethyl acetate and residual aqueous fractions. Adult mice of both sexes were pre-treated with the reference drug silymarin (50 mg/kg) or RAF (100 and 200 mg/kg) during 6 days followed by a single administration of APAP (500 mg/kg) on day 7. The hepatoprotective effect and the contribution of antioxidant activities were evaluated by determining the level of transaminases in serum samples, the levels of proteins, nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase in liver homogenates. Histological analyses of liver slides were also performed. RAF at the doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg and silymarin significantly (p increase in proteins (p p p p

Evaluation of the acute toxicity, phototoxicity and embryotoxicity of a residual aqueous fraction from extract of the Antarctic moss Sanionia uncinata

BackgroundUltraviolet (UV) radiation is the main exogenous inductor of skin damage and so photoprotection is important to control skin disorders. The Antarctic moss Sanionia uncinata is an important source of antioxidants and the photoprotective activity of its organic extracts has been investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the potential photoprotection, cytotoxicity and embryotoxicity of residual aqueous fraction (AF) from the moss S. uncinata.MethodsUV-visible spectrum and SPF (sun protection factor) were determined by spectrophotometry. Embryotoxicity potential was evaluated by Fish embryo-larval toxicity test using zebrafish (Danio rerio) as organism model. Cell death assays by water-soluble tetrazolium salt (WST-1) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were investigated using HaCaT keratinocyte cell line cultured in monolayers and three dimensions (3D). Phototoxicity and association with UV-filters were performed by 3T3 neutral red uptake test.ResultsThe AF showed sharp absorption bands in the UV region and less pronounced in the visible region. The SPF was low (2.5 ± 0.3), but the SPF values of benzophenone-3 and octyl-methoxycinnamate increased ~ 3 and 4 times more, respectively, in association with AF. The AF did not induce significant lethal and sublethal effects on zebrafish early-life stages. In monolayers, the HaCaT cell viability, evaluated by WST-1, was above 70% by ≤0.4 mg AF/mL after 48 and 72-h exposure, whereas ≤1 mg AF/mL after 24-h exposure. The LDH assay showed that the cell viability was above 70% by ≤0.4 mg AF/mL even after 72-h exposure, but ≤1 mg/mL after 24 and 48-h exposure. In 3D cell culture, an increased cell resistance to toxicity was observed, because cell viability of HaCaT cell by WST-1 and LDH was above ~ 90% when using ≤1 and 4 mg AF/mL, respectively. The AF demonstrated values of photo irritation factor < 2 and of photo effect < 0.1, even though in association with UV-filters.ConclusionsThe residual AF absorbs UV-vis spectrum, increased SPF values of BP-3 and OMC and does not induce embryotoxicity to zebrafish early life-stage. The cell death assays allowed establishing non-toxic doses of AF and phototoxicity was not detected. AF of S. uncinata presents a good potential for skin photoprotection against UV-radiation.

Antiplasmodial, Hepatic and Nephritic Effects of Fractions of Methanol Leaf Extract of Glyphaea brevis in Plasmodium berghei-Infected Mice

This study evaluated the antiplasmodial, hepatic and nephritic effects of fractions of Glyphaea brevis methanol leaf extract in P. berghei infected mice. Mice weighing between 15-30 g were infested intraperitoneally with 0.2ml plasmodium infected blood and left for 3 hours before treatment. Infected test groups were treated via oral route of administration with varying doses (200, 300 and 400 mg/kg body weight) of ethylacetate, N-butanol and residual aqueous portion fractions of the Glyphaea brevis methanol extract and Artemisinin (5 mg/kg b.wt) for four days. N-butanol fraction showed the highest antiplasmodial activity (76.64%), followed by residual aqueous portion (73.25%) and ethylacetate (72.99%); Artemisinin has 86.13%. Serum bilirubin (total and conjugated) concentrations of the untreated group (0.82 ± 0.20, 0.51 ± 0.12) were significantly lower (P&lt;0.05) than those in the infected group treated with 300 mg/kg of the residual aqueous portion (1.36 ± 0.20, 0.76 ± 0.05) respectively. Serum albumin levels showed significant (P&lt;0.05) increase in all the groups treated compared to the positive control. Serum total protein, urea and creatinine levels of test groups were not significantly (P&gt;0.05) different from the positive control group. Conclusively, Glyphaea brevis has substantial antiplasmodial activity and could provide a lead for new antimalarial drug development.

In vitro Antiplasmodial Activity of Methanol Stem Extract of Costus afer Ker Gawl. (Costaceae) and its Residual Aqueous Fraction Against Some Drug-sensitive and Drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum Strains

In vitro Antiplasmodial Activity of Methanol Stem Extract of Costus afer Ker Gawl. (Costaceae) and its Residual Aqueous Fraction Against Some Drug-sensitive and Drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum Strains

Antidepressant effects of the hydro-alcoholic extract and fractions of Anchomanes difformis (Blume) Engler rhizome (family Araceae) in mice

In ethno-medicinal practice in the South-western part of Nigeria, the rhizome of Anchomanes difformis is claimed to be effective in the management of mental illness. This study determined the antidepressant effects of hydro-alcoholic extract and fractions of Anchomanes difformis rhizome and the likely mechanisms of action of the extract and the most active fraction in mice. The extract was partitioned into n-hexane, ethylacetate, butanol and distilled water to obtain n-hexane, ethylacetate, butanol and residual aqueous fractions, respectively. The extract and fractions were administered to mice of both sexes (18 to 25 g) at 60, 125, 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg, orally. Tail suspension and forced swimming anti-depressant animal models were used. The likely mechanism of anti-depressant action was assessed using yohimbine and cyproheptadine. The data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Student-Newman-Keul’s post hoc test with the level of significance taken as p&lt;0.05. The extract and ethylacetate fraction at 60 to 250 mg/kg significantly (p&lt;0.05) reduced the period of immobility in both the tail suspension and forced swimming tests without significantly impairing the locomotor activity, suggesting an anti-depressant effect. This effect was reversed by yohimbine (1 mg/kg, i.p.), an α2-adrenergic receptor antagonist, yohimbine and also by cyproheptadine (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.), a serotonergic receptor antagonist. The study concluded that the extract and ethylacetate fraction of A. difformis rhizome possessed an anti-depressant effect in mice which was probably mediated through α2-adrenergic and serotonergic pathways.

Screening phytochemical content, antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities of Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don stem extract and its fractions

Abstract The aims of this study were to screen the phytochemical content, antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties of the extract and its fractions prepared from Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don (C. roseus) stem. C. roseus stem was powdered and extracted with methanol using ultrasound-assisted extraction to obtain the crude extract. The crude extract was further fractioned using liquid-liquid extraction technique to obtain extracts of increasing polarity including n-butanol and residual aqueous fractions. The crude extract and its derived fractions were then subjected to phytochemical screening and assayed for antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities. Results showed that the n-butanol fraction contained the highest levels of saponins and phenolics (3037.54 mg ESE/g and 77.87 mg GAE/g, respectively) and possessed the strongest antioxidant capacity amongst the tested extracts. HPLC analysis revealed that this n-butanol fraction had high levels of apigenin and kaempferol, whereas the aqueous fraction contained a high level of gallic acid. The n-butanol fraction was found to effectively inhibit the activity of Escherichia coli and Staphylococccus lugdunensis. The n-butanol fraction also possessed strong cytotoxic activity in vitro against a wide range of cancer cell lines including A2780 (ovarian), H460 (lung), A431 (skin), MIA PaCa-2 (pancreas), Du145 (prostate), HT29 (colon), MCF-7 (breast), BE2-C (neuroblastoma), SJ-G2, U87 and SMA (glioblastoma) at low doses (GI50 values of 5.2−21.0 µg/mL). These results indicate that the n-butanol fraction prepared from C. roseus stem is a rich source of bioactive compounds which can be isolated for further evaluation as potential antimicrobial drugs or antitumor therapeutic agents.

Antipsychotic and sedative effects of residual aqueous fraction of ethanol root bark extract of &lt;i&gt;Carissa edulis&lt;/i&gt; (Vahl) in mice

Carissa edulis (Vahl) (Family Apocynaceae) is used traditionally for the treatment of headache, gonorrhea, syphilis, rheumatism, epilepsy and mental disorders. This study investigated the antipsychotic and sedative effects of the residual aqueous fraction of ethanolic root bark extract of Carissa edulis using mice models: apomorphine-induced stereotypic climbing behaviour, amphetamine-induced hyperlocomotion in open field, walking beam assay for motor coordination deficit, hole board test for exploratory behavior and diazepam-induced sleep. The residual aqueous fraction (RAF) at 150, 300 and 600 mg/kg, produced significant dose dependent decrease (p<0.05) in stereotypic climbing behaviour induced by apomorphine; while at doses of 300 and 600 mg/kg, it produced a significant (p<0.05) reduction in locomotor activity induced by amphetamine. In addition, it exhibited (150, 300 and 600 mg/kg) significant dose dependent increase (p<0.05) in the time taken to cross the beam. Similarly, at doses of 300 and 600 mg/kg significantly (p<0.05) potentiated the duration of sleep, but there was no significant difference in the number of head dips in the hole board experiment. Therefore, the results of this study suggest that the residual aqueous fraction of Carissa edulis contains bioactive principles with antipsychotic and sedative property. Thus, justify the traditional use of the plant in mental illness. Keywords: Carissa edulis ; Antipsychotic; Sedative; Apomorphine; Amphetamine

Inhibitory effect of Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) Oken leaf extract and their fractions on α-amylase, α-glucosidase and cholinesterase enzyme

Bryophyllum pinnatum (Lam.) Oken leaves are employed as food and as traditional medicines. This study investigates the antioxidant activity (reducing power, DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, H2 O2 scavenging ability and metal ion chelating), carbohydrate digesting enzymes activity and inhibitory activity of cholinergic enzyme of aqueous extract and fractions (n-hexane, ethyl acetate, n-butanol, residual aqueous fraction) of B. pinnatum leaves were investigated. Results showed that aqueous extract of B. pinnatum exhibited DPPH radical scavenging abilities, iron chelation, hydrogen peroxide scavenging abilities and reducing power (Fe3+- Fe2+). B. pinnatum aqueous extract also had considerably α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities with IC50 values 149.20 ± 14.44 μg/mL and 126.15 ± 9.76 μg/mL respectively. Our findings indicated that ethyl acetate fraction contained a considerably higher (p < 0.05) amount of total phenolic, flavonoids, total antioxidant, FRAP, metal ion, ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging activity than other solvent fractions. Furthermore, the ethyl acetate fraction elicited a significantly higher (p < 0.05) inhibitory effects on α-glucosidase (IC50 = 70.90 ± 1.23 μg/ml), α-amylase (IC50 = 62.45 ± 1.22 μg/ml), acetylcholinesterase (AChE) (IC50 = 66.75 μg/mL) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) (IC50 = 62.97 μg/mL) activities than other fractions. Hence, B. pinnatum leaves were rich in biologically active components; thus, could be employed to formulate new plant-based pharmaceutical and nutraceutical drugs to improve human health.

Assessment of Antioxidant Potential and phytochemical screening of Phenolic Compounds of Gleditsia triacanthos L Pods

Objective: The present study aims at the phytochemical screening, the quantification of phenolic compounds of Gleditsia triacanthos L pods (Family Leguminosae) and the assessment of their antioxidant potential by in vitro assays.&#x0D; Subjects and Methods: The pods were extracted with 70% methanol and further partitioned with petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and n-butanol. The residual aqueous fraction has been also recovered. Colorimetric methods using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent, aluminum chloride and Folin-Denis were carried out to estimate total polyphenols, flavonoids and condensed tannins content of extracts. 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were used to determine in vitro antioxidant activity.&#x0D; Results: In vitro phytochemical screening for all the extracts was tested and shown positive result for flavonoids, tannins, cardiac glycosides, sterols and terpenes, saponins and alkaloids. However, all the extracts were free of anthraquinones. The strongest activity against radical scavenging of DPPH was found in the ethyl acetate fraction (IC50= 16,288 ± 0,299 µg/ml) which contains highest amounts of flavonoids (25.160 ± 0.016 mg CE/g), whereas the chloroform fraction showed an important total antioxidant capacity (750,584 ± 129,793 mg AAE/g) with the highest amount of total polyphenols (131.667 ± 2.055 mg GAE/g). When compared to the other fractions, the aqueous fraction presented the lowest antioxidant activity for the two methods.&#x0D; Conclusion: These data suggest that the pods of Gleditsia triacanthos L can be a good natural source of antioxidants that can be beneficial for food and human health.

CITRULLUS COLOCYNTHIS

Objectives: To evaluate the methanolic extract of Citrullus colocynthis andits different fractions for possible spasmogenic effects on rat’s ileum model. Study Design:An experimental study. Setting: Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Basic MedicalSciences, Khyber Medical University, Hayatabad, Peshawar. Period: August 2016 to March2017. Methodology: Different fractions i.e n-hexane, chloroform, Ethyl acetate, n-butanol andaqueous fractions of methanolic extract were tried in concentrations of 0.01, 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1.0,3.0, 5.0, 10 and 15 mg/ml to identify the portion with maximum spasmogens. Results: Aqueousand n-Butanol fractions showed spasmogenic effects on the spontaneous contractions of rat’sileal preparations at the concentrations of 0.1, 0.3, 1.0, 3.0 and 5.0 mg/ml while at 10 and15 mg/ml, they showed spasmolytic effects. Ethyl acetate and chloroform fractions did notshow significant spasmogenic effects, rather showed spasmolytic effects in rabbit’s jejunalpreparations with respective EC50 values of 0.1283 ± 0.007 mg/ml and 2.703 ± 0.235 mg/ml. Respective EC50 values for spasmolytic effects of Ethyl acetate and chloroform fractionsupon KCl induced contractions were 5.37 ± 0.515 mg/ml and 12.36 ± 1.484 mg/ml. RespectiveEC50 (log [Ca++] M) of ethyl acetate fraction at 1mg/ml vs control were -2.563 ± 0.04 and-2.846 ± 0.035. Similarly, respective EC50 (Log[Ca++]M) in the absence and presence of0.1 μM verapamil were -2.45 ± 0.06 and -1.7 ± 0.07. EC50 (log [Ca++] M) for control vschloroform fraction at 3 mg/ml and 5 mg/ml were -2.95 ± 0.035 vs -3.02 ± 0.03 and -3.06 ±0.0264, respectively. Similarly, respective EC50 (Log[Ca++]M) in the absence and presenceof 0.1 μM verapamil were -2.45 ± 0.06 and -1.7 ± 0.07. Conclusion: Thus, it is concluded thatspasmogens concentrated in the residual aqueous fraction followed by n-butanol fraction whilespasmolytic constituents are concentrated in the ethyl acetate fraction followed by chloroformfraction.