Bark Extract Research Articles

Synergistic Phytochemical and Nanotechnological Exploration of Melia azedarach With Silver Nitrate: Elucidating Multifaceted Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Antidiabetic, and Insecticidal Potentials.

Plants are a rich source of bioactive compounds with significant pharmaceutical and health applications. This study explores the phytochemical, therapeutic, and phytotoxic properties of Melia azedarach by analyzing extracts from its bark, flowers, leaves, and fruits using six solvents: ethanol, methanol, acetone, hexane, chloroform, and distilled water. Twenty-one phytochemical tests were conducted, revealing significantly positive results for various tests. However, the ethanolic and methanolic flower extracts yielded no significant results in other tests. The highest total phenolic content was found in the chloroform extract of the leaves (96 ± 0.01 mg/100 g), and the highest antioxidant activity was observed in the ethanolic and hexane leaf extracts, with a 98% DPPH scavenging rate. Antibacterial testing showed significant efficacy against Serratia marcescens, Bacillus subtilis, Kluyvera spp., and Pseudomonas spp., with p values < 0.0001. The fruit chloroform extract demonstrated the highest alpha-amylase inhibition (93 ± 0.05), while the ethanolic leaf extract had the greatest tumor inhibition (85.6 ± 0.5). Insecticidal assays revealed that the acetone bark extract had the highest control values (56% and 57%). Due to their higher reducing potential, the leaves were used to biosynthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, EDX, and SEM, revealing an average particle size of 20-30 nm and spherical morphology. The AgNPs exhibited excellent antibacterial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and insecticidal activities. These findings highlight the potential of M. azedarach and its AgNPs for developing novel therapeutic agents.

Theme: Assessment of anthropogenic pressure on Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP) in the central area of the Nimba Mountains Biosphere Reserve – Republic of Guinea

The general objective of this research is to evaluate the influence of (NTFP) harvesting in the Nimba Mountains Biosphere Reserve as well as their valuation. The Accelerated Participatory Research Method was used for semi-structured interviews around the knowledge, importance and use of NTFPs. This allowed us to identify 39 species of NTFPs of plant origin and 32 of animal origin. Men exploit NTFPs at 85% while women exploit 15%. Regarding the reasons, NTFPs are exploited for the family economy 42%, followed by 23% for medicinal treatment and 18% for food, while 17% for crafts. The exploitation methods are as follows: climbing (25%), gathering (20%), hunting (15%), extraction of bark and roots (13%), piezes (10%), stem cutting (10%) and felling (7%). The proposed mitigation measures are: domestication of certain species (Piper guinneensis, Xylopia aethiopica, Garcinia cola, Raphia vinifera etc.), education and awareness of the population, development of livestock farming. However, these mitigation measures take into account the different actors involved in the use and management of Non-Wood Forest Products.

Haematology and histology studies on Moringa oleifera leaves and bark extracts in streptozotocin-induced diabetic albino rats

Alterations in haematological parameters are frequently observed in individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM). Oxidative stress has been identified as a contributing factor in the pathogenesis of organ damage and haematological dysfunction associated with DM. As a result, the potential positive impact of Moringa oleifera, a medicinal plant known for its antioxidant properties, on haematological parameters and kidney function in diabetic rats was investigated. A total of thirty-five rats were divided into seven groups, each consisting of five rats. Group I was administered only distilled water, while groups II to VII were induced with a single dose of 60mg/kg streptozotocin intraperitoneally. Subsequently, groups II to VI were treated with 150 mg/kg Moringa oleifera leaf methanol extract, 150 mg/kg Moringa oleifera bark methanol extract, 300 mg/kg Moringa oleifera leaf, 300 mg/kg Moringa oleifera bark, and metformin, respectively. The results showed positive modulation to most of the haematology parameters evaluated except neutrophils and lymphocytes by the treatments. The leaf extract showed a more significant modulation of platelets than other treatments. The histology of the kidney showed normal structure for all the treatments. Moringa oleifera especially the leaf extract is promising in the treatment of DM

Phytochemical characterization and valorization of Quercus ilex (west of Algeria)

&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,&amp;quot;serif&amp;quot;;font-size:12pt;line-height:115%;"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;ABSTRACT&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style="text-align:justify;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,&amp;quot;serif&amp;quot;;font-size:12pt;line-height:115%;" lang="EN-US"&gt;This project is part of the promotion of natural resources such as Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP). In order to assess the economic value of NTFP, this research focuses on the phytochemical analysis of holm oak (&lt;/span&gt;&lt;em&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,&amp;quot;serif&amp;quot;;font-size:12pt;line-height:115%;" lang="EN-US"&gt;Quercus ilex &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/em&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:&amp;quot;Times New Roman&amp;quot;,&amp;quot;serif&amp;quot;;font-size:12pt;line-height:115%;" lang="EN-US"&gt;L.) from the Terni region (Western Algeria). It focused on bioactive substances, particularly polyphenols. The method used consists of extracting the phenolic compounds by two methods which are maceration and ultrasound from the leaves and bark of this species. The quantity of these compounds is assessed spectrometrically and the antioxidant activity of the extracts in vitro using free radical scavenging and total antioxidant capacity assays. The results obtained indicate that maceration offers the best yield for extracting phenolic compounds from the leaves, with a yield of 10.74%. These results also showed that the extracts of holm oak leaves and bark are rich in phenolic compounds and have a content of total phenols (103,014±1,393 and 813.462±1.675 mg EAG/g DM), flavonoids (87.078±6.220 and 949.936±36.394 mg EC/g DM) and condensed tannins (57.194±12.447 and 940.195±20.417 mg EC/g DM). Regarding the antioxidant power, it is evident that all extracts have significant antioxidant capacity, and all have high free radical scavenging activity. The highest inhibition percents are 84.98±7.45% for the leaf extract and 83.15±9.27% for the bark extract. According to these results, holm oak contains a large quantity of polyphenols and antioxidant molecules. This information represents a natural source of antioxidants which remains to be exploited for future use in the agri-food and health sectors, within the broader framework of promoting the biodiversity of Algerian plants (NTFP).&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Extraction and In Vitro and In Vivo Antioxidant Activity Evaluation of Polyphenols from Lychee Pericarp

Background Finding a new promising plant antioxidant to combat or prevent cardiovascular disease remains a major challenge for researchers. Lychee pericarp, which includes a variety of polyphenols, is a prospective source of botanical antioxidants. Purpose In response to this issue, we assessed the effect of lychee bark extract on oxygen radical scavenging capacity and separate vascular protective ability in vivo. Methods In the current study, the lychee pericarp enrichment product (RLP) was obtained by optimizing an extraction method and separated using modern separation methods. The structure of the isolated compounds was assessed using 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry, and the content of polyphenols obtained from the extract was quantified using the area normalization method. In addition, the capacity of RLP to scavenge oxygen radicals in vitro was assessed using the DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) and T-AOC (total antioxidant capacity) techniques. Furthermore, an isoprenaline hydrochloride (ISO)-induced rat model of acute myocardial ischemia was established, and four biochemical indicators were used to assess the effect of lychee bark extract on oxygen radical scavenging capacity and cardiovascular protective ability in vivo. Results RLP extraction produced 11 chemicals, 6 of which were structurally assessed. Quantitative analysis revealed that epicatechin, PC-C(epicatechin-(4β↓8,2β↓O↓7)-epicatechin-(4β↓8)-epicatechin), type A proanthocyanidin trimer, proanthocyanidin A2, and type B proanthocyanidin dimer were the most abundant polyphenols. The in vitro DPPH and T-AOC findings revealed that RLP exhibited strong free radical scavenging activity, approximately 1.5-fold that of vitamin C. The four biochemical indicators confirmed the antioxidant activity and cardiovascular protective ability of RLP in vivo. Conclusion RLP has good in vivo and in vitro antioxidant activity, confirming lychee pericarp as a prospective source of botanical antioxidants.

&lt;i&gt;In Vivo&lt;/i&gt; antiplasmodial and schizont inhibition activity of methanol stem bark extract of &lt;i&gt;Ficus vallis-choude&lt;/i&gt;

Ficus vallis-choudae has been traditionally utilized for treating malaria, pain, jaundice, headaches, and convulsions. This study aimed to assess the antiplasmodial activity of the plant's methanol stem bark extract (FvMSE) both in vitro and in vivo. Preliminary phytochemical analysis was conducted, and the oral median lethal dose (LD50) was estimated following the OECD protocol. The in vitro antiplasmodial activity was evaluated using the schizont inhibition model as outlined by Trager and Jensen. For the in vivo assessment, mice infected with chloroquine-sensitive Plasmodium berghei were used in curative, suppressive, and prophylactic experimental models. Phytochemical screening identified the presence of saponins, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, terpenoids, steroids, and cardiac glycosides. The oral LD50 of FvMSE was found to be above 5000 mg/kg. The extract exhibited significant chemosuppressive activity (p&lt;0.05) at doses of 1000, 500, and 250 mg/kg, reducing parasite density compared to the distilled water-treated group. In the prophylactic model, the extract significantly decreased (p&lt;0.05) parasite counts in all treated groups compared to the distilled water-treated group, although its activity was lower than that of the standard drug pyrimethamine. The curative study results demonstrated that FvMSE significantly reduced (p&lt;0.05) parasite densities compared to the distilled water-treated group. Additionally, FvMSE significantly (p&lt;0.05) reduced the mean number of schizonts compared to the negative control, similar to the effects observed with standard drugs chloroquine and artesunate. These findings support the traditional use of Ficus vallis-choudae in treating malaria.

Oleanolic acid purified from the stem bark of Olax subscorpioidea Oliv. inhibits the function and catalysis of human 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 1

Cancer is a leading cause of global death. Medicinal plants have gained increasing attention in cancer drug discovery. In this study, the stem bark extract of Olax subscorpioidea, which is used in ethnomedicine to treat cancer, was subjected to phytochemical investigation leading to the isolation of oleanolic acid (OA). The structure was elucidated by 1-dimensional and 2-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic (NMR) data, and by comparing its data with previously reported data. Molecular docking was used to investigate the interactions of OA with nine selected cancer-related protein targets. OA docked well with human 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type-1 (17βHSD1), caspase-3, and epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase (binding affinities: −9.8, −9.3, and −9.1 kcal/mol, respectively). OA is a triterpenoid compound with structural similarity to steroids. This similarity with the substrates of 17βHSD1 gives the inhibitor candidate an excellent opportunity to bind to 17βHSD1. The structural and functional dynamics of OA-17βHSD1 were investigated by molecular dynamics simulations at 240 ns. Molecular mechanics/Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MMPBSA) studies showed that OA had a binding free energy that is comparable with that of vincristine (–52.76, and −63.56 kcal/mol, respectively). The average C-α root mean square of deviation (RMSD) value of OA (1.69 Å) compared with the unbound protein (2.01 Å) indicated its high stability at the protein’s active site. The binding energy and stability at the active site of 17βHSD1 recorded in this study indicate that OA exhibited profound inhibitory potential. OA could be a good scaffold for developing new anti-breast cancer drugs.

Exploring the anticancer and antioxidant potential of gold nanoparticles synthesized from Pterocarpus marsupium bark extract against oral squamous cell carcinoma

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a disease of significant concern with higher mortality rates. Conventional treatment approaches have several drawbacks, leading to the opening of new research avenues in the field of nanoparticle-based cancer therapeutics. The study aimed at the synthesis of gold nanoparticles (Pm-AuNPs) from the aqueous bark extract of Pterocarpus marsupium, followed by its characterization and in vitro anticancer evaluation against OSCC. The synthesized Pm-AuNPs were characterized using UV–visible spectroscopy, particle size analyser, zeta potential, FTIR and SEM techniques. The anticancer potential of the Pm-AuNPs was evaluated against OSCC cell lines (SCC29b, SSC154 and OECM-1) through in vitro assays. The IC50 value was found to be 25 ± 1.2, 45 ± 1.5 and 75 ± 2.1 µg/mL for the three OSCC cell lines, elucidating Pm-AuNPs cytotoxic effects and mechanism of action. Intracellular ROS and SOX detection, mitochondrial transmembrane potential analysis and apoptosis detection were used to confirm the activity of Pm-AuNPs against OSCC. Acute toxicity studies on Wistar rats confirmed the non-toxic nature of the Pm-AuNPs at a higher dose concentration up to 2000 mg/kg body weight. The findings underscore Pm-AuNPs as promising candidates for future anticancer therapeutics, providing insights into their mechanism of action and therapeutic efficacy against OSCC.

Kandungan Fitokimia pada Ekstrak Kulit Kayu Tingi (Ceriops tagal) dengan Proses Ultrasonikasi

Tingi (Ceriops tagal) is considered as one of the natural dyes used in textile dyeing process. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of extraction duration (20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 minutes) on ultrasonic extraction of tingi bark on yield value, total phenolics content, total flavonoids content, and total tannins content. The yield was calculated by drying the solution with a freezer dryer, while the phytochemical content was calculated by reading method on UV-vis spectrophotometry. The results of the experiment showed that the yield value of the duration treatment was in the range of 1.8 to 2.7%. Total phenolic content ranged from 268.1-314.1 mgGAE/g sample, total flavonoid content in the range of 68.3-87.1 mgQE/g sample, and total tannin content in the value between 244.8-338.1 mgTAE/g sample. The highest compound content was in the duration of 20 minutes.

GC–MS analysis, molecular docking, and pharmacokinetic studies on Dalbergia sissoo barks extracts for compounds with anti-diabetic potential

Diabetes is a metabolic condition defined by abnormal blood sugar levels. Targeting starch-hydrolyzing enzymes and Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 (DPP-4) expressed on the surface of numerous cells is one of the key strategies to lower the risk of Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Dalbergia sissoo Roxb. bark (DSB) extracts have been reported to have anti-diabetic properties. This study intended to scientifically validate use of alcoholic and hydro-alcoholic extracts of DSB for T2DM by conducting preliminary phytochemical investigations, characterising potential phytochemicals using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis followed by comprehensive in-silico analysis. A qualitative phytochemical evaluation indicated the presence of alkaloids, phenolics, glycosides, conjugated acids and flavonoids. Ethanolic extracts showed highest total phenolic content (TPC) (127.072 ± 14.08031 μg GAE/g dry extract) and total flavonoid content (106.911 ± 5.84516 μg QE /g dry extract). Further FT-IR spectroscopy also revealed typical band values associated with phenol, alcohol, alkene, alkane and conjugated acid functional groups. The GC–MS analysis identified 139 compounds, 18 of which had anti-diabetic potential. In-silico ADMET analysis of potential compounds revealed 15 compounds that followed Lipinski’s rule and demonstrated drug-like properties, as well as good oral bioavailability. Molecular docking was utilised to analyse their potential to interact with three targets: α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and DPP-4, which are crucial in managing diabetes-related problems. Molecular Docking analysis and membrane permeability test utilising the PerMM platform revealed that compounds in the extracts, such as Soyasapogenol B and Corydine, had better interactions and permeability across the plasma membrane than standard drugs in use. Molecular dynamics simulations also showed that selected compounds remained stable upon interaction with α-amylase. Overall, using the in-silico approaches it was predicted that DSB extracts contain potential phytochemicals with diverse anti-diabetic properties. It further needs to be investigated for possible development as formulation or drug of choice for treating T2DM.

Assessing a "Least-Concern" Red List Tree Species from Madagascar Used in Traditional Medicine: Morella spathulata (Myricaceae) Phyto-Compounds and Anti-Inflammatory Properties.

Morella spathulata (Myricaceae family) is a common plant from Madagascar and is present on the IUCN Red List of threatened species classified at the 'least concern' level, used by the local population to treat numerous illnesses and pain. Despite its frequent use, comprehensive phytochemical and pharmacological research on the species is limited. This study evaluated the antioxidant, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as the toxicity of methanol extracts from the leaves (MS_L) and bark (MS_B) of M. spathulata. The research involved the analysis of nutritional traits such as sugars, organic acids, vitamin C, polyphenolic content (TPC) and the main phytochemicals by HPLC analysis. Antioxidant capacity was assessed through DPPH and FRAP assays. Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities were evaluated using acetic acid-induced writhing and carrageenan-induced paw oedema tests in mice. The results showed a high content of phenolic and bioactive components in the leaf and bark extracts, associated with antioxidant, analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. The interaction of key compounds such as ferulic acid and ellagic acid with proteins involved in pH regulation and immune modulation provides clues to the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects. However, conservation efforts are crucial due to habitat loss and illegal logging, and further studies are needed to fully explore the plant's therapeutic potential.

Topical Therapies for Periorbital Dyschromia: A 30-Year Review of the Literature.

Periorbital dyschromia (POD) is a prevalent dermatologic problem with multifactorial etiology, making treatment outcomes inconsistent and unclear. To evaluate and compose a comprehensive review of topical ingredients proven to be effective in the treatment of POD. Scopus, PubMed, and OVID databases were searched in a span of 30 years through December 31, 2023, to identify articles with original findings of topical therapies for the treatment of POD. Findings of interest were objectively and subjectively measured regarding pigmentation, skin texture, aesthetic improvement, elasticity, hydration, and eye-bag volume. The database searches yielded 339 unique studies. After screening and review, 22 studies were included totaling 13 nonrandomized control trials, 7 randomized clinical trials, 1 retrospective case series, and 1 prospective single-arm study. Studies included all reported statistically significant results with topical therapies inclusive of acids, bark extract, bicyclic monoterpene diols, caffeine, combo ingredient serums, ethyl ximenynate, gentiopicroside, glycosaminoglycans, growth factors, topical PRP, and vitamins. The findings of this review suggest that topical therapies can be effective in the treatment of POD. Future trials should focus on delineating specific etiology of POD and evaluation of therapies specific to their cause.

Phytochemical and antimicrobial evaluation of Miconia burchellii Triana (Melastomataceae).

Four novel triterpenoid saponins, 1α,3β,23-trihydroxy-olean-12-en-28-oic acid 28-O-β-glycopyranoside ester (1), 1α,3β,23-trihydroxy-urs-12-en-28-oic acid 28-O-β-glycopyranoside ester (2), 3-O-β-galloyl-1α,23-dihydroxy-olean-12-en-28-oic acid 28-O-β-glycopyranoside ester (3) and 3-O-β-galloyl-1α,23-dihydroxy-urs-12-en-28-oic acid 28-O-β-glycopyranoside ester (4) and two new pentacyclic triterpenoids, 3-O-β-trans-p-coumaroyl-1α-hydroxy-urs-12-en-28-oic acid (5) and 3-O-β-cis-p-coumaroyl-1α-hydroxy-urs-12-en-28-oic acid (6), together with six known compounds were isolated from the ethanolic extracts of Miconia burchellii leaves and stem bark. Their structures were established by HR-MS, 1D and 2D NMR and comparison with literature data. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity of the leaves and stem bark extracts and fractions was evaluated using the micro broth dilution technique. The crude extract, the ethyl acetate and methanol fractions of the stem bark were the most active against the tested bacteria, showing growth inhibition of both Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report on the antimicrobial activity of M. burchellii.

Monomelittoside and Dichotomoside D from bark extract of Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br. inhibits dental caries pathogen Streptococcus mutans

Dental caries advances to be a significant global health concern, primarily attributed to the virulent actions of Streptococcus mutans. The antibacterial property of the bark extract of Alstonia scholaris was assessed using standard disc diffusion assays, which revealed significant inhibition of S. mutans. Subsequently, we determined the Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) revealed potent antibacterial activity of bark extract against S. mutans, at MIC and MBC values 62.5 and 125 µg/mL, respectively and antibiofilm activity at 125 µg/mL. Furthermore, cytotoxicity assays showed no adverse effects on mammalian cells. Moreover, we employed liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry to identify bioactive compounds in the bark extract and revealed the presence of major active compounds as Monomelittoside and Dichotomoside D effective in targeting the S. mutans. These findings showed that, the promising antibacterial efficacy of Monomelittoside and Dichotomoside D, highlighting their potential as natural therapeutics for combating dental caries.

Cytotoxicity effects of Terminalia arjuna bark-derived nano-ZnO on MCF 7 cells and enhanced anti-breast cancer potency of its phytochemicals upon Zn-capping

Breast cancer is the second-leading cause of morbidity and mortality among cancers worldwide and primarily affects women. The available drugs for treating breast cancer causes severe adverse effects with prolonged use that necessitates the need for a novel anticancer agent from natural sources that has enhanced biocompatibility and pharmacokinetic attributes, and it should not have any adverse reactions. Hence, the present research is aimed to synthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) via green route from Terminalia arjuna bark (TAB-ZnO NPs). The characterization of synthesized nanoparticles was studied using FT-IR (fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy), EDX (energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy), XRD (X-ray diffraction), SEM (scanning electron microscopy), and TEM (transmission electron microscopy). A surface plasma resonance peak was seen at 375 nm in the UV–Vis spectrum of T. arjuna bark extract mixed with ZnO NPs. FT-IR analysis reveals that the presence of phenols, alkenes, ethers and aromatic compounds that could be responsible for the reduction and capping of ZnO NPs. The elemental analysis of EDX revealed that the material has 93.70 % of ZnO and 6.30 % of oxygen. SEM and TEM analysis showed that synthesized ZnO NPs has spherical in shape ranging from 26.30 to 78.21 nm. The anti-breast cancer potential of synthesized material was explored on MCF-7 cells using an in vitro approach and the results indicates that the TAB-ZnO NPs have notably suppressed the proliferation of cancer cells. To figure out how the chemical components of this plant reveal their anticancer effects after being capped with zinc, they were docked on cancer-related proteins such as β-Defensin 6, BRCA1 and neurofibromin. The study found that phytochemicals with a zinc cap have several contacts with the residues of breast cancer-related proteins, suggesting that zinc enhances the anticancer effects of these phytochemicals. Based on the outcome of in vitro and in silico findings, the present research concluded that synthesized TAB-ZnO NPs could be developed as a potential drug candidate in suppressing the proliferation of cancer cells.

Therapeutic Importance of Extracts from Leaf and Bark of &lt;i&gt;Gymnacranthera farquhariana&lt;/i&gt;

Background: Gymnacranthera farquhariana (Hook. f. and Thomson) Warb. is one of the endangered tree taxon of the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hot-spot in peninsular India. Very few reports are available on biological applications of the bark, leaf and seed of this plant. Aim: The present work deals with the screening of methanol and aqueous extracts of G. farquhariana from leaf and bark for therapeutic importance. Methods: Anti-bacterial activities of extracts were carried out using two bacterial strains viz., Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus through the agar well diffusion method. The antifungal activities by poison bait method using Aspergillus niger, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and Fusarium solani. Each experimental parameter was conducted in triplicate. Results: The results showed that G. farquhariana bark and leaf extracts exhibited promising activities against bacteria. Antifungal activity also showed good inhibition activity. The extracts showed a good anti-diabetic potential in α-amylase inhibitory assay. Bark aqueous extract showed 54.79% inhibition for α- amylase inhibition assay at 250μL. The extract also showed good anti-inflammatory potential in the Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) denaturation assay. Bark aqueous extract showed 83.9% inhibition for BSA denaturation assay at 100 μL. Conclusion: Both leaf and bark extracts of the plant showed good antioxidant, anti-diabetic and antimicrobial activity. This is the first such in vitro report concerning G. farquhariana plant parts.

Antidiabetic and Antimicrobial Properties of Leaf and Bark Extracts of Cerbera odollam

Antidiabetic and Antimicrobial Properties of Leaf and Bark Extracts of Cerbera odollam

Stabilization of Picea abies Spruce Bark Extracts within Ice-Templated Porous Dextran Hydrogels.

Porous hydrogels have brought more advantages than conventional hydrogels when used as chromatographic materials, controlled release vehicles for drugs and proteins, matrices for immobilization or separation of molecules and cells, or as scaffolds in tissue engineering. Polysaccharide-based porous hydrogels, in particular, can address challenges related to bioavailability, solubility, stability, and targeted delivery of natural antioxidant compounds. Their porous structure enables the facile encapsulation and controlled release of these compounds, enhancing their therapeutic effectiveness. In this context, in the present study, the cryogelation technique has been adopted to prepare novel dextran (Dx)-based porous hydrogels embedding polyphenol-rich natural extract from Picea abies spruce bark (SBE). The entrapment of the SBE within the Dx network was proved by FTIR, SEM, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). SEM analysis showed that entrapment of SBE resulted in denser cryogels with smaller and more uniform pores. Swelling kinetics confirmed that higher concentrations of Dx, EGDGE, and SBE reduced water uptake. The release studies demonstrated the effective stabilization of SBE in the Dx-based cryogels, with minimal release irrespective of the approach selected for SBE incorporation, i.e., during synthesis (~3-4%) or post-synthesis (~15-16%). In addition, the encapsulation of SBE within the Dx network endowed the hydrogels with remarkable antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. These porous biomaterials could have broad applications in areas such as biomedical engineering, food preservation, and environmental protection, where stability, efficacy, and safety are paramount.

Acute Toxicity and IN VIVO Antischistosomal Effects of Entada africana Guill &amp; Perott (Fabaceae) Methanol Stem Bark Extract in Albino Mice

The study was aimed at determining the acute toxicity and schistosomicidal effects of methanol extract (ME) of Entada africana (E. africana), in albino mice. Fresh stem bark of E. africana was shade-dried and extracted by Soxhlet extraction. Acute toxicity was carried out on 6 groups of mice (n=3) of 6-week-old, sizes 27-30g; to determine the therapeutic index, piloerection signs and possible mortality (LD50) in 24h exposure period. Cercaria from B. globosus snails were shed under a 100W bulb for 2 hours. In vivo antischistosomal assays was by used of 6-weeks old (27-30g) mice. Set I (n=10) involved investigation on schistosomules infection in the mice, 3-7 days post infection (PI). Set II (n=10) was infected and treated with E. africana ME extract, at concentrations 10-100mg/l, 35th day, PI for 5 consecutive days. Set III (n=10), were infected and treated with praziquantel– PZQ (positive control). While set IV (n=10) were infected and untreated (negative control). All were sacrificed, 75th day of PI. Data were analyzed by GraphPad® prism 8.4, version 2020. Findings revealed that E. africana ME did not generate any harmful or clinical effect within 24h, post administration; and there were no obvious reactions such as paw licking, stooling, piloerection or immediate death, except at phase II, 5000mg/kg bwt, (1⁄3) being the highest dosage. Worm burden decreased with increase in concentrations, especially at 70-100mg/l. Lower concentrations (10mg/l), had high worm population (76.00±21.28). Infected and untreated group had highest worm population (189.67±32.52). E. africana ME stem bark extract, showed antischistosomal effect and worm reduction in a dose- dependent pattern.

Protective effects of Khaya senegalensis stem bark extracts against acetaminophen-induced oxidative damage, dyslipidaemia, and hepatotoxicity in rats

Background Free radical attacks have been implicated in the aetiology of many diseases and several plants are used traditionally for the management of many oxidative-stress related diseases. Khaya senegalensis is used traditionally for the management diseases such as diabetes and for the treatment of infections. However, mechanisms underlying actions of K. senegalensis are poorly understood. Purpose This study aimed at the preliminary determination of the phytochemical constituents and investigation of the antioxidative and hepatoprotective actions of K. senegalensis in acetaminophen-treated rats. Method Aqueous extracts of K. senegalensis were screened for the presence of key phytochemicals. Total flavonoid and phenolic contents were quantified. Wistar albino rats were pre-treated with saline (control) or graded concentrations of K. senegalensis (50 – 200mg/kgbw) for 10 days prior to acetaminophen (2g/kg body weight) administration. Serum levels of vitamin C, thiobarbituric reactive substances, catalase activities, enzyme markers of liver function were assessed. Cholesterol-phospholipid ratio in treated-rats were determined. Results K. senegalensis extract showed the presence of saponins, tannins, cardiac glycosides, alkaloids, flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Total phenolic and total flavonoid contents were determined as 57.14±0.85mgQE/g and 51.72±0.77mgGE/g. Acetaminophen (2g/kg bw) raised serum TBARS (4.7-fold, P&lt;0.001), H2O2 levels (2.3-fold, P&lt;0.001), AST (5.9-fold, P&lt;0.001), ALT (6.6-fold, P&lt;0.001) and ALP (4.2-fold, P&lt;0.001) and reduced serum levels of vitamin C (54%, P&lt;0.001) and catalase activity (74.6%, P&lt;0.001). Treatment of K. senegalensis extracts inhibited effects of acetaminophen on TBARS (18.2% - 46.4%, P&lt;0.05 – 0.001), vitamin C (1.4 – 1.8-fold, P&lt;0.001 – 0.05), H2O2 levels (19.1 – 50.1%, P&lt;0.001-0.05), catalase activities (1.4 – 3.1-fold, P&lt;0.001 – 0.05), AST (27.7 – 62.8%, P&lt;0.001 – 0.05), ALT (35.6 – 57.5%, P&lt;0.001 – 0.05) and ALP (15.9 – 46.2%, P&lt;0.01 – 0.05). The extract reduced cholesterol-phospholipid ratio (21 – 31%, P&lt;0.05). Conclusion These results motivate further development of the therapeutic potential of K. senegalensis