Bronchospasm In Guinea Pigs Research Articles

EVALUATION OF ANTI-ASTHMATIC ACTIVITY OF CAPPARIS DECIDUA

Objective: The present study was conducted to determine the anti-asthmatic activity of Capparis decidua.Methods: The acute oral toxicity study was conducted as per OECD guidelines, and the extract was proved to be safe up to the dose of 2000 mg/kg.The anti-asthmatic activity of C. decidua was evaluated using various experimental models such as histamine-induced bronchoconstriction in guineapigs and milk-induced leukocytosis in mice, histamine-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs, studies on pre convulsive time and milk-inducedleukocytosis in mice, studies on blood.Results: Antihistaminic drugs Chlorpheniramine maleate and ethanolic extract of C. decidua significantly protected the guinea pigs against histamineinducedbronchospasm. The ethanolic section of C. decidua has dramatically prolonged the latent period of convulsions compared to control. Ethanolicextract of C. decidua suppresses the milk-induced leukocytosis by stabilizing the oxidative stress in the surrounding tissue.Conclusion: The results obtained in the above study suggest the ethanolic extract of C. decidua possesses significant anti-asthmatic activity.

EVALUATION OF ANTI-ASTHMATIC ACTIVITY OF ETHANOLIC EXTRACT OF CYNODON DACTYLON LEAVES

In the present study Cynodon dactylon leaves ethanolic extract and its chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions were used to evaluate the anti-asthmatic activity, using various experimental in vivo and in vitro animal models. Ethanolic extract of Cynodon dactylon and its chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions were evaluated for its anti-asthmatic activity by in vitro models (isolated guinea pig ileum preparation and isolated guinea pig tracheal chain preparation) in vivo models (Histamine and acetylcholine induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs and milk induced eosinophilia in mice model). Ethanolic extract of Cynodon dactylon and its ethyl acetate fraction at the concentration of 10 mg significantly antagonized the effect of histamine induced contraction on isolated guinea pig ileum preparation. Ethyl acetate fraction of Cynodon dactylon showed the maximum spasmolytic activity and significantly extended the latent period of convulsion as compared to standard (Ketotifen fumarate) upon histamine and acetylcholine exposure in a dose dependent manner. The study concluded that, chloroform and ethyl acetate fractions of Cynadon dactylon was shown significant anti-asthmatic activity.

Evaluation of Antiasthamic Activity of Electrohomeopathy Formulation Pettorale on Experimental Animals

Objective: The current study was planned to evaluate the antiasthamatic effect of Electrohomeopathic medicine Pettorale in various experimental models.
 Methods: The antiasthmatic activity of Electrohomeopathic medicine Pettorale was studied on different experimental animals like histamine induced bronchospasm in guinea pig, haloperidol induced catalepsy in rats, egg albumin induced paw anaphylaxis in rats and milk induced leukocytosis in mice.
 Conclusion: Preliminary phytochemical screening has revealed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, carbohydrates, amino acids, proteins, steroids and terpenoids. Petorella exhibited best antihistaminic activity at the dose of 400 mg/kg. It inhibited haloperidol-induced catalepsy, increased leukocyte count and increased eosinophil count due to milk allergen. Antiasthmatic activity of Pettorale may be possible due to the membrane stabilising potential, suppression of antibody production and inhibition of antigen induced histamine release.
 Keywords: Electrohomeopathy, Pettorale, catalepsy, asthma, histamine

Bronchospasmolytic and Adenosine Binding Activity of 8- (Proline / Pyrazole)- Substituted Xanthine Derivatives.

8-Phenyltheophylline derivatives exhibit prophylactic effects at a specific dose but do not produce the cardiovascular or emetic side effects associated with xanthines, thereby exhibiting unique characteristics of potential therapeutic importance. Novel series of 8-(proline/pyrazole)-substituted xanthine analogs have been synthesized. The affinity and selectivity of compounds to adenosine receptors have been assessed by radioligand binding studies. The synthesized compounds also showed good bronchospasmolytic properties (increased onset of bronchospasm; decreased duration of jerks) with 100% survival of animals in comparison to the standard drug. Besides, compound 8f & 9f showed good binding affinity in comparison to other synthesized compounds in the micromolar range. The maximum binding affinity of these compounds was observed for A2B receptors, which was ~ 7 or 10 times higher as compared to A1, A2A and A3 receptors. The newly synthesized derivatives 8f, 9a-f, 17g-m, and 18g-m displayed significant protection against histamine aerosol induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs. Newly synthesized proline/pyrazole based xanthines compounds showed a satisfactory binding affinity for adenosine receptor subtypes. Replacement or variation of substituted proline ring with substituted pyrazole scaffold at the 8th-position of xanthine moiety resulted in the reduction of adenosine binding affinity and bronchospasmolytic effects.

Bronchodilatory effect of <i>Zingiber officinale</i> Roscoe (ginger) in guinea pigs

Purpose: To determine the bronchodilatory effect of ginger on histamine-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs.
 Methods: Thirty-six guinea pigs weighing 400 - 700 g were randomly divided into six groups. Group 1 received distilled water, while group 2 was given formoterol (1.55 μg/kg) + budesonide (0.02 mg/kg). Guinea pigs in groups 3 and 4 were given ginger (350 and 700 mg/kg, respectively), while those in groups 5 and 6 received ginger (350 and 700 mg/kg, respectively) in addition to formoterol (1.55 μg/kg) and budesonide (0.02 mg/kg). Pre-convulsion time and percent protection in each group was calculated.
 Results: There was statistically significant improvement in pre-convulsion times, with values of 156.64 ± 32.93, 299.33 ± 44.20, and 235.99 ± 34.55 s for groups 2, 5 and 6, respectively (p < 0.01). Moreover, statistically significant protection values of 73 and 68 % were obtained for groups 5 and 6, respectively, relative to normal control (p < 0.01).
 Conclusion: These results indicate that ginger has promising potential for use as an add-on treatment for bronchospasm.
 Keywords: Zingiber officinale, Histamine, Asthma, Pre-convulsion time

Evaluation of the Antiasthmatic Activity of Methanolic Extract of Trigonella Foenum Graecum on Experimental Models of Bronchial Asthma

The present study deals with the phytochemical screening and evaluation of antiasthmatic activity of methanolic extract of Trigonella foenumgraecum on experimental models of bronchial asthma and anaphylaxis. The antiasthmatic activity was studied on histamine-induced bronchospasm in guinea pig (Dunkey-Hartley) for respiratory parameters such as maximum airflow, minimum airflow, tidal volume, respiratory rate, minute volume, specific airway resistance determination on double chambered whole body plethysmography on un-anesthetized guinea pigs, for mast cell degranulation by compound 48/80 (in vitro) was done using rat (Albino Wistar) peritoneal fluid. Trigonella foenum graecum treated result indicated significant protection against histamine-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs at highest dose i.e. 400mg/kg. The bronchodilatory effect of Trigonella foenum graecum was found comparable to the protection offered by the standard drug Salbutamol on respiratory parameters in double chambered whole body plethysmography, Treatment with Trigonella foenum graecum at a dose of 400mg/kg showed a significant decrease in degranulation rate of actively and passively sensitized mast cells of sensitized rats when challenged with antigen. Trigonella foenum graecum. Possess significant anti-asthmatic activity due to its potential anti inflammatory, antioxidant and the antihistaminic activity, which reflects as anti-degranulating effect on mast cells and on respiratory parameters.
 Keywords: Trigonella foenum graecum; asthma; mast cell; compound 48/80; histamine

MOMORDICA CHARANTIA NANO DRY POWDER ORAL FORMULATION IN CONTROLLING HISTAMINE-INDUCED BRONCHOSPASM

Objective: Momordica charantia (MC) (bitter gourd) is known traditionally to possess medicinal values. This edible vegetable is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and has been studied for its bronchospasm preventive action. With the recent development in nanoformulations, this study was done to identify the effectiveness of MC nanoformulation in comparison to crude MC formulation in protecting animal from histamine-induced bronchospasm.
 Methods: The optimized MC nanoformulation was prepared with polyethylene glycol and soy phosphatidylcholine. The MC crude powder was prepared by drying in hot air oven and grinding in a blender. Eight guinea pigs of both sexes were given once daily MC nanoformulation per oral by mixing with water for 7 days. Evaluation of the formulation was done on the 2nd, 4th, and 6th h on day 1 and day 7 after administration of MC for protection in developing pre-convulsive dyspnea due to histamine-induced bronchospasm.
 Results: An analysis of variance test revealed statistically significant results in the protection of animals from developing bronchospasm after treatment with the MC nanoformulation in comparison to the control values. About 75% of animals were protected from developing bronchospasm on day 7 attributing to the cumulative effect of nanoformulation.
 Conclusion: The study proved that the MC nanoformulation could effectively prevent histamine-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs.

Anti-anaphylactic and antiasthmatic activity of Euphorbia thymifolia L. on experimental animals

In Ayurveda, Euphorbia thymifolia L. (Euphorbiaceae) prescribed in the treatment of various ailments like bronchial asthma, cough, diarrhea and bleeding piles. The present study was investigated to evaluate antianaphylactic, mast cell stabilizing and antiasthmatic activity of methanol and aqueous extract of E. thymifolia (ET) on experimental animals. Anaphylaxis was induced by administration of horse serum and triple antigen vaccine intraperitoneal (i.p.) in albino Wistar rats. Extracts of ET were administered to the rats in dose of 250 and 500 mg/kg orally for 14 days. At the end of treatment, asthma score was measured and various blood parameters like differential count (DC), total WBC count and IgE were estimated. Interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5 and TNF-α were measured by ELISA commercial kit from BALF. Histopathological changes of lungs were observed. Antiasthmatic activity of extracts of ET was also studied on histamine-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs. In vitro mast cell stabilizing activity of extracts was evaluated on compound 48/80 challenged rat intestinal mesenteric mast cells. The treatment with extracts of ET produced significant decrease in asthma score and they also brought to normalcy the increased total WBC, DC counts, serum IgE, TNF-α, IL-4 and IL-5 in BALF. The histopathological study further supported the protective effect of ET extracts. The pretreatment with extracts of ET displayed significant reduction in degranulation of mesenteric mast cell numbers. The treatment with extracts of ET significantly increased in time of PCD. Thus, these findings concluded that E. thymifolia could be effectively used in the treatment of anaphylaxis and asthma.

Amelioration of anaphylaxis, mast cell degranulation and bronchospasm by Euphorbia hirta L. extracts in experimental animals

The current investigation was aimed to assess anti-anaphylactic, mast cell stabilizing and anti-asthmatic activity of methanol and aqueous extract of Euphorbia hirta L. (Euphorbiaceae) on experimental animals. Anaphylaxis was induced by administration of horse serum and triple antigen vaccine subcutaneously in albino Wistar rats. Extracts of E. hirta (EH) were administered to the rats in dose of 250 and 500 mg/kg b.w. orally for 14 days. At the end of treatment, asthma score was measured and various blood parameters like differential count (DC), total WBC count and IgE were estimated. Interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α were measured by ELISA commercial kit from Broncho alveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Histopathological changes of lungs were observed. Anti-asthmatic activity of extracts of EH was also studied on histamine-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs. In vitro mast cell stabilizing activity of extracts was evaluated on compound 48/80 challenged rat intestinal mesenteric mast cells. The treatment with extracts of EH produced significant decrease in asthma score and they also brought to normalcy the increased total WBC, DC counts, serum IgE, TNF-α, IL-4 and IL-5 in BALF. The histopathological study further supported the protective effect of EH extracts. The pre-treatment with extracts of EH displayed significant reduction in degranulation of mesenteric mast cell numbers. The treatment with extracts of EH significantly increased in time of pre-convulsive dyspnoea (PCD). Thus, these findings concluded that E. hirta could be effectively used in the treatment of anaphylaxis and asthma.

Antiasthmatic related properties of Abrus precatorius leaves on various models

ObjectiveAsthma is a multifaceted inflammatory disorder which results into narrowing of airway with broncho-constriction and spasm. As the complex pathophysilogy of asthma, various animal models are generally used to investigate the immunological and physiological pathogenesis of disease. Abrus precatorius Linn (Fabacease) is a climbing shrub. The leaves and roots are sweet in taste and traditionally used for the treatment of asthma, bronchititis, and inflammation. A. precatorius possesses different pharmacological activities. Hence the objective of this study was to evaluate antiasthmatic activity of ethanol extract of A. precatorius leaves using various models. MethodsIn present study ethanol extract of A. precatorius leaves was evaluated for antiasthmatic activity using carrageenan induced paw edema in rats [100–150 mg/kg], histamine induced bronchospasm in guinea pig [200–400 mg/kg] and histamine induced contraction of goat tracheal chain [2.5–25 μg/ml]. ResultsResult of study revealed that ethanol extract of A. precatorius significantly exhibited anti-inflammatory effects in rats, oral treatment of extract on guinea pig significantly increases histamine induced preconvulsive dysponea times and the ethanol extract of plant increases got tracheal chain precontracted with histamine. ConclusionHence present study concludes that ethanol extract of A. precatorius possesses antiasthmatic activity.

Anti-Histaminic Activity of Kaphaketu Rasa on Histamine Induced Bronchospasm in Guinea Pigs

Kaphaketu rasa is a classical herbo-mineral preparation used for Pratishyaya Kasa Shwasa and other respiratory disorders. It is a Khalveeya Rasayana judicially containing shodhita Vatsanabha Aconitum ferox Shodhita Tankana Borax Pippali Piper longum Shanka Bhasma Calyx of Conch amp Ardraka Swarasa Bhavana Juice of Ginger for 3 times. According to modern science Rhinitis Bronchitis Bronchial asthma are the similar conditions where in Kaphaketu Rasa is very effective clinically. Pathophysiologically histamine secretion and activity will be more in majority of the allergic disorders. Hematological examination reveals raised Absolute Esoinophilic Count.The formula is in clinical practice very effectively in aforesaid disorders. the claims of Ayurveda ought to be validated by suitable animal models with scientific parameters. Hence to get more documentary evidences updating of the knowledge and to get more scientifically confidence in Ayurvedic science the present study was carried out. Guinea pigs were fed with Kaphaketu rasa by oral route once a day for 5 days. The Kaphaketu Rasa showed statistically significant result at Plt0.001. Kaphaketu Rasa significantly extended the latent period of pre-convulsive Dyspnoea PCD as compared with control group.

Pharmacological evaluation of Musa paradisiaca (Linn.) on bronchial asthma

Objective The present study was conducted to investigate the antiasthmatic potential from the flowers of Musa paradisiaca Linn. to validate its traditional claims. Materials and methods The antiasthmatic activity of the hydroalcoholic extract of M. paradisiaca flower (HMPF) was evaluated by studying histamine or acetylcholine-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs, compound 48/80-induced mast cell degranulation in albino rats, and histamine-induced constriction in isolated guinea pig trachea. The preconvulsion dyspnea time at the 0th and seventh day at a dose of 200 and 400 mg/kg in guinea pigs, the percentage of granulated and degranulated mast cells at doses of 500, 750, and 1000 μg/ml in rats, and muscular contraction at doses of 500, 750, and 1000 μg/ml in isolated guinea pig trachea were evaluated and compared with their respective control groups. Results Phytochemical studies revealed the presence of flavonoids, steroids, saponin, terpenoids, lignins, and phenolic compounds in the extract. In addition, treatment with HMPF significantly ( P Conclusion The present study concluded that the antiasthmatic activity of the HMPF may be due to the presence of the above-mentioned phytoconstituents causing membrane stabilization, suppression of antibody production, and inhibition of antigen-induced histamine and acetylcholine.

Pharmacological evaluation for anti-asthmatic and anti-inflammatory potential of Woodfordia fruticosa flower extracts

Context: Woodfordia fruticosa Kurz. (Lythraceae) flowers are ethnopharmacologically acclaimed in the Indian medicinal system to treat asthma.Objective: To evaluate W. fruticosa flower extracts for anti-asthmatic effect.Materials and methods: Ethyl acetate, acetone, methanol, and hydro-alcohol extracts of W. fruticosa flowers were obtained successively and standardized. Ability of extracts to stabilize free radicals and compound-48/80-induced mast cell degranulation was evaluated. In vitro anti-inflammatory potential of extracts at 100 and 200 µg/ml by membrane stabilization and in vivo inhibition of rat paw edema up to 5 h (100 and 200 mg/ml; p.o.) was evaluated. In vitro bronchorelaxant effect was examined against histamine- and acetylcholine (1 µg/ml; independently)-induced guinea pig tracheal contraction. Extracts were evaluated for bronchoprotection (in vivo) ability against 0.1% histamine- and 2% acetylcholine-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs at 100 and 200 mg/ml; p.o.Results: Standardization studies revealed that the methanol extract exhibited highest polyphenolic (62.66 GAE), and flavonoid (6.32 RE) content and HPLC fingerprinting confirmed the presence of gallic acid (Rt 1.383). IC50 values for DPPH scavenging and metal chelation by the methanol extract were 40.42 and 31.50 µg/ml. Methanol and ethyl acetate extracts at 100 µg/ml exhibited 06.52 and 07.12% of histamine release. Methanol, ethyl acetate, and hydro alcohol extracts at 200 mg/kg demonstrated 32.73, 29.83, 26.75% and 32.46, 9.38, 26.75% inhibition of egg albumin and carrageenan-induced inflammation, respectively. Methanol extract exhibited 100% bronchorelaxation and 48.83% bronchoprotection.Conclusion: Woodfordia fruticosa flower (WFF) extracts exhibited anti-asthmatic effect by demonstrating bronchoprotection, bronchorelaxation, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and mast cell stabilization ability.

Pharmacological evaluation of calendula officinalis L. on bronchial asthma in various experimental animals

Background: Calendula officinalis Linn. (Asteraceae) is an aromatic herb growing in the forests of India, China, Central Europe, and some tropical areas. The study was designed to investigate the scientific basis for the traditional claim of C. Officinalis on asthma. In the present study, methanol extract of whole plants was evaluated for preliminary phytochemical screening and antiasthmatic activity on different animals. Subjects and Methods: The asthmatic activity was evaluated by histamine- or acetylcholine-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs, compound 48/80-induced mast cell degranulation in wistar rats, histamine-induced constriction on isolated guinea pig trachea, and ovalbumin-induced sensitization in mice at different dose levels of C. Officinalis. The preconvulsion dyspnoea time at 0 th and 7 th days at the dose of 250 and 500 mg/kg in guinea pig, the percentage of granulated and degranulated mast cell of at the dose of 600, 800, 1000 μg/mL in rats, muscular contraction at the dose of 600, 800, and 1000 μg/mL on isolated guinea pig trachea and the inflammatory cell count, that is, eosinophils, neutrophills, lymphocytes, macrophages, interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, and immunoglobulin-E (IgE) from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid at the dose levels of 50, 100, and 250 mg/kg in mice were evaluated and compared with respective control groups. Results: Phytochemical studies revealed the presence of flavonoids, steroids, saponin, terpenoids, lignins, and phenolic compounds in the extract. In addition, the treatment of methanolic extract of C. officinalis (MECO) significantly (P < 0.001) decreased the bronchospasm induced by histamine or acetylcholine in guinea pigs, degranulation mast cell in rats, histamine-induced constriction on isolated guinea pig trachea, and the level of inflammatory cells as compared with inducer groups. The antiasthmatic activity was potentiated in all the doses in dose-dependent manner. Conclusion: The present study concludes that the antiasthmatic activity may be due to the presence of above phytoconstituents by antihistaminic, anticholinergic, antispasmodic, and mast cell stabilizing property.

Study on the mechanism of the bronchodilatory effects of Cynodon dactylon (Linn.) and identification of the active ingredient

Ethnopharmacological relevanceIn the traditional medicine, Cynodon dactylon (Linn.) is used in asthma, but scientific studies to provide evidence for medicinal uses are sparse. Thus this study was undertaken to provide evidence for medicinal use in asthma as a bronchodilator, and to identify active ingredient(s). Materials and methodsIn vivo, acetylcholine (Ach)-induced bronchospasm was conducted in guinea pig while isolated rat tracheal strip was suspended in organ bath to measure the concentration response curve using multichannel data acquisition system. ResultsThe chloroform extract of Cynodon dactylon (CECD) protected against Ach-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs, similar to atropine. In the in vitro studies, CECD relaxed carbachol (CCh) and high K+-induced contraction of rat tracheal strip, similar to atropine and verapamil respectively, suggesting antimuscarinic and calcium channel blocking (CCB) activities, which were confirmed by right ward shifting of CCh and Ca+2 concentration response curve (CRC). The phosphodiestrase (PDE) inhibitory activity was confirmed by potentiation of isoprenaline-induced inhibitory response, similar to papaverine. Densitometry analyses led to the identification of scopoletin as an active ingredient. Effectively, it significantly inhibited high K+, and Ca+2 induced contractile response, similar to verapamil. The phosphodiestrase (PDE) inhibitory activity was confirmed by direct evidence of potentiation of isoprenaline-induced inhibitory response, similar to papaverine. ConclusionsThese results suggest that the bronchodilator activity of CECD is partly due to presence of scopoletin, and mediated possibly through CCB and PDE inhibition.

Inhibition of extracellular nucleotides hydrolysis intensifies the allergic bronchospasm. A novel protective role of ectonucleotidases

Nucleotides released to the extracellular space stimulate purinergic receptors, and their effects are modulated by ectonucleotidases. The role of ATP in the allergic bronchospasm has been scantly studied. We used several techniques (plethysmography, organ baths, confocal microscopy, RT-PCR, ATP measurement) to explore the role of nucleotides and ectonucleotidases in the allergic bronchospasm in guinea pigs. While allergenic challenge with a low-dose ovalbumin (OVA) only produced a small bronchospasm (~2-fold the basal lung resistance), previous inhibition of ectonucleotidases by ARL-67156 greatly intensified this response (~11-fold the basal lung resistance, with 44% mortality). Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid obtained during this bronchospasm contained increased ATP concentration. This potentiation was abolished by antagonism of purinergic receptors (suramin+RB2) or TXA2 receptor (SQ29548), or by intratracheal apyrase. In tracheal rings and lung parenchyma strips, OVA caused a concentration-dependent contraction. Suramin+RB2 or levamisole produced a significant rightward displacement of this response, and ARL-67156 did not modify it. Platelets stimulated with OVA released ATP. Confocal images of nonsensitized tracheas showed slight fluorescence for P2Y6 receptors in epithelium and none for P2Y4 . Sensitized animals showed strong fluorescence to both receptors and to alkaline phosphatase in the airway epithelium. This correlated with a large increment in mRNA for P2Y4 and P2Y6 receptors in sensitized animals. Nucleotides greatly potentiate the allergic bronchospasm when ectonucleotidases activity is diminished, and this effect is probably favored by the upregulation of P2Y4 and P2Y6 receptors in airway epithelium during sensitization. These results prompt for further research on these mechanisms in human asthma.

Design and synthesis of new 8-anilide theophylline derivatives as bronchodilators and antibacterial agents

Theophylline derivatives have long been recognized as potent bronchodilators for the relief of acute asthma. Recently, it was found that bacterial infection has a role in asthma pathogenesis. The present work involves the design and synthesis of 8-substituted theophylline derivatives as bronchodilators and antibacterial agents. The chemical structures of these compounds were elucidated by IR, (1)H-NMR, mass spectrometry, and elemental analyses. The bronchodilator activity was evaluated using acetylcholine-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs, and most of the compounds showed significant anti-bronchoconstrictive activity in comparison with standard aminophylline. In addition, the antibacterial activity of all the target compounds was investigated in vitro against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria using ampicillin as a reference drug. Results showed that some of the tested compounds possessed significant antibacterial activity. A pharmacophore model was computed to obtain useful insight into the essential structural features of bronchodilator activity. A structure activity relationship was also discussed.

Pharmacological evaluation of extracts of Hedychium spicatum (Ham-ex-Smith) rhizome.

Hedychium spicatum (Ham-ex-Smith), known as Shati in Ayurvedic classics, is documented for the treatment of cough, hiccough, fever and asthma. The present study includes the evaluation of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of the dried rhizome of H. spicatum for anti-histaminic and ulcer-protective activities in guinea pig (GP), anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities in rat and acute toxicity in mouse. The extracts were administered orally, daily as suspension, in 1% carboxymethyl cellulose either for 7 days in GP studies or 60 min before or just before experiment in rats and mice. An initial dose-dependent anti-histaminic action of both the extracts (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) was performed against histamine-induced bronchospasm in GPs. The 200 mg/ kg dose of aqueous and ethanolic extracts was selected both in GP and rat for further studies. GPs treated with aqueous and ethanolic extracts showed gastric ulcer protection against histamine-induced gastric ulcer compared with the control group. Both the extracts also showed an anti-inflammatory effect against carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats from 1 h onwards, and this was maximum at 3 h. Analgesic effect was determined by using hot plate and tail flick tests in rats, and both the extracts at 200 mg/kg showed a significant increase in the latent period from 30 min onwards till 120 min of their study period. Both the extracts did not show any toxic effect like increased motor activity, salivation, clonic convulsion, coma and death in mice even at the 2000 mg/kg dose (nearly 10 times of the optimal effective dose), indicating the safety of the extracts. The result confirms the indigenous use of this plant in respiratory disorders.

Phytopharmacological evaluation and anti–asthmatic activity of Ficus religiosa leaves

Objective To discuss phytopharmacological potential and anti-asthmatic activity of Ficus religiosa ( F. religiosa) (L.). Methods Fresh leaves of F. religiosa were obtained from Vastrapur Lake, Ahmedabad, and dried to obtain powder. Histamine and acetylcholine were used to guinea pigs to establish bronchospasm model. In in vivo study, the aqueous extract of F. religiosa leaves (AEFR) at doses of 150 and 300 mg/kg was administrated to guinea pigs, and the broncho-protective activity of AEFR was compared with aminophylline at 25 mg/kg. While in in vitro study, and 10 g/mL, 20 g/mL, 30 g/mL of AEFRL was administrated to guinea pigs, respectively, and mast cell stabilizing activity of AEFR was compared with ketotifen at 10 g/mL. Results In the in-vivo model, pre-treatment with aminophylline (25 mg/kg, ip.) could significantly delay the onset of histamine induced pre-convulsive dyspnea, compared with vehicle control. Administration of AEFRL (150 and 300 mg/kg, ip.) also produced significant effect on latency to develop histamine & acetylcholine induced pre-convulsive dyspnea. In the mast cell stabilizing model, AEFRL at 10, 20 and 30 μg/mL could significantly increase the number of intact cells. Conclusions It can be concluded that AEFRL is effective on histamine & acetylcholine induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs. In addition, AEFRL can potentiate the number of intact cells in the mast cell stabilizing model.

Evaluation of Effect of Taxus baccata Leaves Extract on Bronchoconstriction and Bronchial Hyperreactivity in Experimental Animals

The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the bronchodilating effect and bronchial hyperreactivity of alcoholic extract of Taxus baccata Linn. (AET) leaves in experimental animals. Bronchodilator activity of AET was studied on the histamine and acetylcholine aerosol induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs and bronchial hyperreactivity was studied on bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) in the egg albumin sensitized guinea pigs and by histopathological studies. In vitro mast cell stabilizing activity was studied using compound 48/80 as a degranulating agent. Treatment with AET (200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o., for 7 days) showed significant protection against histamine and acetylcholine aerosol induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs. Significant decrease in the total leukocyte and differential leukocyte count in the BALF of the egg albumin sensitized guinea pigs was observed by administration of AET (200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o., for 15 days). AET dose dependently protected the mast cell disruption induced by compound 48/80. These results suggest that AET not only has bronchodilating activity but also decreases bronchial hyperreactivity by decreasing the infiltration of inflammatory cells in the airway and inhibiting the release of histamine like mediators from the mast cell by stabilizing it.