DNA Protective Effect Research Articles

Investigation of the Antioxidant, α-Glucosidase Inhibitory, Anti-inflammatory, and DNA Protective Properties of Vaccinium arctostaphylos L.

The scope of this study was to investigate the total phenolic, anthocyanin, and flavonoid contents and the biological properties of ethanol extract (EE), methanol extract (ME), and aqueous extract (AE) from Vaccinium arctostaphylos L. EE, ME, and AE of V. arctostaphylos were prepared. Various biological activities such as total phenolic, anthocyanin, and flavonoid contents, and antioxidant (2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl ferrous ion-chelating, and ferric reducing antioxidant power assays), α-glucosidase inhibitory, anti-inflammatory, and DNA protective properties of these extracts were studied. EE exhibited the highest total phenolic, anthocyanin, and flavonoid contents with 44.42±1.22 mg gallic acid equivalents/g dry weight, 8.46±0.49 mg/Cyaniding-3-glucoside equivalents/g dry weight, and 9.22±0.92 mg quercetin equivalents/g dry weight, respectively. The antioxidant activities of the extracts followed the order: EE>ME>AE. EE and ME inhibited α-glucosidase enzyme and their IC50 values were 0.301±0.002 mg/mL and 0.477±0.003 mg/mL, respectively. In addition, EE and ME were determined as noncompetitive inhibitors with inhibitory constant (Ki ) values of 0.48±0.02 mg/mL and 0.46±0.01 mg/mL, respectively. EE in 100 and 300 mg/kg doses caused a significant reduction in formalin-induced edema in mice, demonstrating the anti-inflammatory effect of EE. In DNA protective studies, all of the extracts protected supercoiled plasmid pBR322 DNA against damage caused by Fenton's reagents due to their radical scavenging activities. Our results demonstrated that EE of V. arctostaphylos L. had strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, α-glucosidase inhibitory, and DNA protective effects, suggesting that it might be an effective medical plant to prevent or treat diseases associated with oxidative damage and inflammation.

Characterization of bioactivity and phytochemical composition with toxicity studies of different Opuntia dillenii extracts from Morocco

The phytochemical composition, in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, cytotoxicity and antigenotoxicity of fruit extracts of Opuntia dillenii were studied. The phytochemical composition was evaluated using HPLC, GC-MS and UV–Vis spectrophotometry. Spectrophotometrical methods were used to estimate the antioxidant potential. Antimicrobial activity was determined using a microdilution method. The cytotoxic effects of the extracts were evaluated using the MTT assay. In vitro DNA-protective activity against hydroxyl radical-induced DNA damage was also determined. The results showed that polar extracts of O. dillenii had a significant amount of phenolic compounds, including flavonoids, whereas non-polar extracts had mostly terpenoids and fatty acid derivatives. Moreover, several extracts showed good antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, with low cytotoxicity and significant DNA-protective effects. These results showed that the extracts of O. dillenii have promising bioactivity and further studies on the potential application in different areas of food and health might be beneficial.

GENOPROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF ETHANOLIC STEM EXTRACTS OF TINOSPORA CORDIFOLIA ON SODIUM ARSENITE-INDUCED DNA DAMAGE IN SWISS MICE LYMPHOCYTES BY COMET ASSAY

Objective: The study was aimed to evaluate the DNA protective effects of ethanolic extracts of Tinospora cordifolia stem on Swiss albino mice lymphocytes against the sodium arsenite-induced genotoxicity.
 Methods: In this experiment, 25 animals of nearly the same age were equally divided. Group 1 (control) fed on tap water while rest four (2, 3, 4, and 5) groups were treated with 4 mg/kg body weight, per orally sodium arsenite for 12 weeks. Sodium arsenite pretreated groups (4 and 5) were followed by administration of 80 mg/kg body weight, per orally T. cordifolia extracts for the next 12 weeks. Animals were sacrificed at the 8th week and 12th week, respectively, for the assessment of sodium arsenite-induced genotoxicity and comparative genoprotective effects of experimental plant extracts. The extent of DNA migration is directly proportional to the magnitude of DNA damage. Percentage tail DNA content and olive tail moment parameters were used in the comet to relate DNA damage.
 Results: The findings suggested that the ethanolic stem extracts of T. cordifolia significantly inhibited the sodium arsenite-induced oxidative genotoxicity. The phytoconstituents of T. cordifolia shown to retard genetic damage associated with arsenic exposure.
 Conclusion: T. cordifolia may be used as a preventive herbal preparation against chemical or arsenical toxicity.

Total Phenolics, Flavonoids Contents, Antioxidant Activity and DNA Protective Effect of Lenten Rose (Helleborus orientalis)

The aims of the present study were to evaluate the antioxidant activity and DNA Protective effect of Helleborus orientalis (HO) leaf extract against oxidative damage, and to determine the total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the plant species studied.
 Methods: The total phenol content (TPC) of H. orientalis (Ranunculaceae) extract was determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu technique. The aluminum chloride colorimetric assay in the determination of The total flavonoid content (TFC) and was used, Analysis of Phenolic Acids was identified by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Antioxidant activity was analyzed by the 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) Assay. Protective effect of H. orientalis leaf extract against to H2O2 was evaluated by using TAS, TOS methods and Comet assay.
 Key Findings: H. orientalis ethanol extracts contain high amounts of antioxidants. The HO leaf methanol extract (LME) decreased the DNA damage at all tested concentrations in a dose-dependent manner (r=0.86 p<0.01) against to H2O2.
 Conclusions: The total phenol content in the extracts of different parts of the plant varied from 4.00 mg GAE/1 gr to 19.42 mg GAE/1 gr. The flowers had the highest phenol content (19.42 mg GAE/1 gr sample) and followed by the leaves (17.20 mg GAE/1 gr sample). The total flavonoid content in the extracts from different parts of the plant varied from 2.57 mg QE/1 gr to 11.88 mg QE/1 gr. The flowers had the highest flavonoid content (11.88 mg QE/1 gr sample) and followed by the leaves (10.21 mg QE/1 gr sample).
 Antioxidant activity of fractions was explained as a percentage of DPPH radicals’ scavenging and IC50 values (μg/ml). Leaf and flowers of HO are richer in antioxidant than its root and stem. As the concentration of leaf extracts used increased, the DNA protective effect increased and it was statistically significant at overdoses of 2500 μg/mL. Total antioxidant status (TAS) levels were significantly (p <0.05) decreased in the H2O2 group (3.4±0.21) but H. orientalis was significantly (p<0.05) increased TAS levels in this group. When the concentration of leaf extracts used increased, the protective effect has also increased and statistically significant at overdoses of 2500 μg / mL (6.3±0.67). Total oxidant status (TOS) levels were significantly (p <0.05) increased in the H2O2 group (25.3±0.74) and H. orientalis was significantly (p<0.05) decreased TOS levels in groups.

Dark coffee consumption protects human blood cells from spontaneous DNA damage

Abstract Coffee increasingly attracts notice with respect to beneficial health effects. Our objective was to investigate DNA protective effects of a special roast coffee blend of pure Arabica (Coffea arabica L.) in healthy volunteers (n = 96), following a prospective, randomized, controlled study with parallel design (coffee versus water). Potential modulation of Nrf2 signaling was evaluated by focusing on its two master regulators, Nrf2 and Keap1, as well as on Nrf2 translocation in the volunteers’ lymphocytes (PBLs). In this context a newly established fluorescence imaging method for Nrf2 translocation analysis in PBLs turned out as feasible and eligible tool applicable for future studies. After chronical coffee consumption (8 weeks) spontaneous DNA strand breaks were significantly lower in the coffee group compared to water control, suggesting a protective effect of the coffee blend. Nrf2 signaling was remotely affected, indicating that additional mechanisms of protection from DNA damage need to be considered.

Phytochemical analysis, and antioxidant, anti-hemolytic and genoprotective effects of Quercus ilex L. and Pinus halepensis Mill. methanolic extracts

Context: Quercus ilex and Pinus halepensis are largely used in Algerian folk medicine as a remedy for different health problems. Aims: To determine the phytochemical composition as well as to evaluate the antioxidant, anti-hemolytic and genoprotective effects of Quercus ilex root bark extract (QIE) and Pinus halepensis young ovulate cones extract (PHE). Methods: Methanolic extracts were prepared by maceration. Phenolic compounds and flavonoids were quantified spectrophotometrically and identified by HPLC analysis. In vitro antioxidant activity of the extracts was assessed by determining the DPPH and ABTS radicals scavenging activities and ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP). Protective effect of the extracts against AAPH-induced erythrocyte hemolysis was assessed. pBluescript M13 (+) plasmid DNA was used as oxidation target to evaluate DNA protective effect of the extracts. Results: Considerable phenolic compounds and flavonoids contents were found in the studied extracts. Catechin and phenolic acids (4-hydoxybenzoic, caffeic, coumaric, ferulic and gentisic acids) were identified in QIE, while catechin and cinnamic acid were identified in PHE. Both extracts scavenge DPPH radical with IC50 values of 5.67 µg/mL and 18.87 µg/mL, respectively. Antioxidant capacity against ABTS radical was 4.13 and 1.15 mM Trolox equivalent/mg extract. The two extracts also showed a considerable ferric reducing ability with 1.98 and 8.55 mM FeSO4/mg extract, respectively. On the other hand, both extracts exerted a significant protective effect against AAPH-induced erythrocyte hemolysis and DNA protective activities were noticed. Conclusions: Quercus ilex and Pinus halepensis extracts are important sources of bioactive compounds possessing important antioxidants, antihemolytic and genoprotective effects.

Integrating an ex-vivo skin biointerface with electrochemical DNA biosensor for direct measurement of the protective effect of UV blocking agents

Skin cancer is the most frequent kind of cancer in white people in many parts of the world. UV-induced DNA damage and genetic mutation can subsequently lead to skin cancer. Therefore development of new biosensing strategies for detection of UV-induced DNA damage is of great importance. Here we demonstrate a novel combination of an ex-vivo skin biointerface and an electrochemical DNA sensor for the direct detection of UV induced DNA damage and investigation the protective effect of various UV blockers (Zinc-oxide (ZnO), titanium-dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (NPs) and sunscreens) against DNA damage. A diazonium modified screen-printed carbon electrode immobilized with a DNA sequence related to the p53 tumour suppressor gene, the most commonly affected gene in human UV-induced skin cancer, was applied as an electrochemical DNA sensor. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was employed for the detection of DNA damage induced by UV-A radiation by following the changes in charge transfer resistance (Rct). The protective effects of UV blockers applied onto a pig skin surface (a suitable model representing human skin) were successfully detected by the DNA sensor. We observed that the naked skin has little UV protection showing an 18.2% decreases in ∆R/R values compared to the control, while applying both NPs and NP-formulated sunscreens could significantly reduce DNA damage, resulting in a decrease in ∆R/R values of 67.1% (ZnO NPs), 77.2% (TiO2 NPs), 77.1% (sunscreen 1) and 92.4% (sunscreen 2), respectively. Moreover, doping moisturising cream with NPs could provide a similar DNA protective effect. This new method is a biologically relevant alternative to animal testing and offers advantages such as fast, easy and inexpensive processing, in addition to its miniaturised dimension, and could be used for a range of applications in other sources of DNA damage and the protective effect of different UV blocking agents and other topical formulations.

Consumption of a dark roast coffee blend reduces DNA damage in humans: results from a 4-week randomised controlled study.

To determine the DNA protective effects of a standard coffee beverage in comparison to water consumption. The single-blind, randomised controlled study with parallel design included healthy women (n = 50) and men (n = 50) recruited from the general Central European population. The subjects were randomised in a coffee and a control group, with stratification for sex and body mass index. The study comprised two periods of 4weeks: a preconditioning period, with daily consumption of at least 500ml water but no coffee, nor tea, nor any other caffeine-containing product. During the subsequent intervention period the coffee group consumed 500ml of freshly brewed dark roast coffee blend per day, the control group consumed water instead. On the last day of each period, blood was drawn and analysed by comet assay (single-cell gel electrophoresis) to assess the level of DNA damage (strand breakage). At the end of the intervention period the mean level of DNA strand breaks in the coffee group has decreased in comparison to the control group [difference in means 0.23% TI (tail intensity), p = 0.028]. The mean change from baseline (delta value) was - 23% in the coffee group (p = 0.0012). Effects of coffee intake were similar for men and women. During intervention, neither group showed any significant change in body weight or calorie intake. Our results indicate that regular consumption of a dark roast coffee blend has a beneficial protective effect on human DNA integrity in both, men and women.

Evaluation of Paeonia emodi for its cardioprotective potentials: An investigative study towards possible mechanism

Ethnopharmacological relevancePaeonia emodi Wall. ex Royle (peony) is an important member of family Paeoniaceae. Different parts of the plant have been folklorically used for treatment of different diseases. Infusion of dried flowers is used to treat diarrhea, the seeds are emetic and cathartic while the rhizome has been indicated for the treatment of hysteria, abdominal spasm, nervine tonic and headache. Besides these, peony has also been used in different respiratory and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) like hypertension, palpitations, congestive heart failure and atherosclerosis. Being a folkloric remedy for the treatment of CVDs, Paeonia emodi (P. emodi) requires to be explored scientifically for MI management. AimThe current research work was designed to explore the possible cardioprotective mechanism of P. emodi in Isoproterenol hydrochloride (ISO) induced MI in mice. Materials and methodsExperimental animals randomly divided in different groups, received methanolic extract of P. emodi (Pe.ME) and its subsequent fractions for 15 days followed by ISO (100 mg/kg s.c) at 24 h interval for two days. The cardioprotective potential of the test samples were investigated by determining the serum levels of Alanine Amino Transferase (ALT), Aspartate Amino Transferase (AST), Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) and Creatine Phosphokinase (CPK). The ethyl acetate fraction (Pe.EA) was found potent among all the tested samples of P. emodi. Based on its high potency, Pe.EA was subjected to GC-MS analysis and further relevant experiments including anti-hyperlipidemic, antioxidant, lipid peroxidation, membrane stabilization, thrombolytic, DNA ladder assay and histopathological study. ResultsPe.EA exhibited significant cardioprotective activity through reduction in levels of serum biomarkers responsible for MI. It significantly reduced serum levels of ALT (p < 0.001), AST (p < 0.001), CPK (p < 0.05) and LDH (p < 0.001) at a dose of 300 mg/kg as compared to ISO treated group. The GC-MS analysis confirmed the presence of potential compounds (esculetin, methyl eugenol, isovanillic acid) which might play a role in cardioprotection. Further screening confirmed that the effect of Pe.EA is mediated through multiple targets/mechanisms, which include anti-hyperlipidemia, antioxidant, lipid peroxidation inhibition, membrane stabilization, thrombolytic and DNA protective effects. Histopathological studies revealed the palliative effect for the damage caused in myocardial tissues. ConclusionFindings of current study provide evidence that P. emodi is a potential candidate for the treatment and management of MI.

Presence of antigenotoxic and anticytotoxic effects of the chalcone 1E,4E-1-(4-chlorophenyl)-5-(2,6,6-trimethylcyclohexen-1-yl)penta-1,4-dien-3-one using in vitro and in vivo assays

Chalcones are chemically defined as α,β–unsaturated ketones with a 1,3-diphenyl-2-propen-1-one nucleus. These compounds occur naturally in plants and are considered precursors of flavonoids. Given that evaluating genetic toxicology tests is essential in investigating the safe use and chemopreventive potential of different natural and synthetic compounds, this study aimed to assess the genotoxic, cytotoxic, antigenotoxic, and anticytotoxic activity of the chalcone 1E,4E-1-(4-chlorophenyl)-5-(2,6,6-trimethylcyclohexen-1-yl)penta-1,4-dien-3-one (CAB7β). The CAB7β was synthesized via Claisen–Schmidt reaction. The Ames test was applied using the co-treatment model as well as a micronucleus assay of mouse bone marrow with co-, pre- and post-treatment models. Our results indicate no genotoxic effect for CAB7β in any of the tests applied. At all the concentrations used, CAB7β showed a significant DNA protective effect against the mutagenic action of 4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide and sodium azide according to the Ames test, and against doxorubicin in the co-, pre- and post-treatment models of the micronucleus assay. CAB7β alone displayed cytotoxic activity in the micronucleus test. At concentrations of 12,5 and 50 µg/plate, CAB7β showed a moderate cytotoxic profile only in Salmonella typhimurium strain TA98. However, an anticytotoxic effect was observed against S. typhimurium strain TA100 for all the concentrations tested and during co-, pre- and post-treatment in the micronucleus assay. It was concluded that CAB7β exhibited a slightly cytotoxic effect in S. typhimurium strain TA98 and significant antigenotoxic and anticytotoxic effects in cells of mouse, making it a promising candidate in chemoprevention and possibly in the development of new cancer treatments.

Biological Activities and Secondary Metabolite Screening of Rumex hastatus Extract through Fourier Transform Infrared and Raman Spectroscopy

Human infectious diseases are caused by various pathogens including bacteria, fungi, viruses, parasites, and protozoans. These infectious agents are controlled by using synthetic drugs as well as natural sources. The aim of current study was to evaluate the antibacterial effect of Rumex hastatus against clinical bacterial pathogens. In current research antibacterial effect of Rumex hastatus was analyzed against seven clinical pathogenic bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Serratia marcescens, Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa through agar well diffusion method. The boiled extract was used for the phytochemical screening, antioxidant potential, thin layer chromatography, bio-autography, and spot screening. Genomic DNA was extracted to find the DNA protection effect of R. hastatus. Antibacterial results showed that diethyl ether extract has the maximum inhibition of S. pyogenes (9.66 ± 0.57 mm). Acetone and diethyl ether extracts showed moderate inhibition of K. pneumoniae (6.33 ± 1.52 mm and 5.66 ±1.15 mm) and S. aureus (6.33 ± 1.52 mm and 5.66 ± 0.57 mm). Similarly, chloroform extract indicated moderate inhibition of S. pyogenes (5.66 ± 1.15 mm). Ethanol extract had low or even no effect on the growth of bacteria. Genomic DNA extraction also encouraged the antibacterial effect of R. hastatus. Various phytochemical constituents such as ketoses, oligosaccharides, amino acids, amines, sugars, flavonoids, and antioxidant constituents were detected. TLC-Bioautography and spot screening results revealed the potential use of R. hustatus as an antibacterial agent. It was concluded that most of the tested fractions appeared as an important source for the discovery of new antimicrobial drugs.

In silico and in vivo characterization of cabralealactone, solasodin and salvadorin in a rat model: potential anti-inflammatory agents.

BackgroundThe present study investigates the hepato- and DNA-protective effects of standardized extracts of Cleome brachycarpa (cabralealactone), Solanum incanum (solasodin), and Salvadora oleioides (salvadorin) in rats.Materials and methodsHepatotoxicity was induced with intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) (1 mL/kg b.wt.) once a week for 12 weeks. The hepato- and DNA protective effects of the extracts in different combinations were compared with that of a standard drug Clavazin (200 mg/kg b.wt.). Tissue alanine aminotransferase, alpha-fetoprotein, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), isoprostanes-2α, malondialdehyde, and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine, the significant hallmarks of oxidative stress, were studied.ResultsHistopathological findings of the liver sections from the rat group which received CCl4+cabralealactone, solasodin, and salvadorin demonstrated improved centrilobular hepatocyte regeneration with moderate areas of congestion and infiltration comparable with Clavazin. For in silico study, the identified compounds were subjected to molecular docking with cyclooxygenase-2 and TNF-α followed by a molecular dynamics study, which indicated their potential as anti-inflammatory agents.ConclusionCabralealactone, solasodin, and salvadorin confer some hepatoprotective and DNA-damage protective effects against CCl4-induced toxicity. They successfully restored the normal architecture of hepatocytes and have the potential to be used as inhibitor to main culprits, that is, cyclooxygenase-2 and TNF-α. They can combat oxidative stress and liver injuries both as mono and combinational therapies. However, combination therapy has more ameliorating effects.

DNA protective effect of rosmarinus officinalis total extract in mouse peripheral blood

Rosmarinus officinalis is a common household aromatic plant widely used in cosmetic, food and folk medicine. The aim of this study was evaluated rosmarinus total extract (RTE) protective effect on DNA damage induced by cyclophosphamide (CP) and evidence the lack of genotoxicity and cytotoxicity of RTE in peripheral blood erythrocytes of Balb-C mice using the micronucleus assay. To evaluate the DNA protective effect, the dose of 100mg/kg of RTE was used and given orally. Following was the admiration of CP (50mg/kg). To evaluated the lack genotoxic or cytotoxic, three doses (30, 100 and 300mg/kg) of RTE were administered orally. A drop of blood was obtained from the tip of the tail of each mouse 24h for six days. We found no increase of micronucleated erythrocytes (MNE) or micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MNPCE). Nor did polychromatic erythrocytes (PCE) decline in mice treated with one of the three different doses of RTE. RTE extracts were capable of diminished DNA damage caused by CP thus reducing MNE and MNPCE frequencies. The lack of genotoxic and cytotoxic effect of the RTE and reduces the genotoxicity caused by CP, suggest the potential therapeutic usefulness of this plant extract.

Exploring the therapeutic potential and phenolic composition of two Turkish ethnomedicinal plants – Ajuga orientalis L. and Arnebia densiflora (Nordm.) Ledeb.

Ajuga orientalis L. and Arnebia densiflora (Nordm.) Ledeb. are plants traditionally used in Turkish ethnomedicine to manage common ailments. Nonetheless, there is currently a dearth of investigations geared towards highlighting the inhibitory properties of A. orientalis and A. densiflora against key carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase), tyrosinase, and cholinesterases (acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase) involved in diabetes, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and neurodegenerative diseases, respectively. We aimed to shed light on the antioxidant potential and various enzymatic inhibitory properties of tested methanolic extracts of these plants. In vitro antioxidant activity, DNA protective effects, antimicrobial activity (against 8 bacteria, 10 fungal strains and 1 yeast), as well as phenolic compounds determination and HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography) analysis were performed. 17 phenolic components were quantified in tested extracts. Major phenolic compounds present in A. orientalis extract were chlorogenic acid, benzoic acid, and luteolin. A. densiflora extract revealed the presence of gallic acid, rutin, rosmarinic acid, quercetin, luteolin, and apigenin. A. densiflora showed a stronger antioxidant capacity, higher total phenolic (33.72 mg GAE/g), and total flavonoid contents (55.93 mgRE/g), as well as protection of DNA against hydroxyl radical compared to A. orientalis extract. The tested extracts showed similar antimicrobial activity with low effect against the bacterial and fungal strains. The tested extracts showed a slightly higher potential to inhibit tyrosinase activity, while inhibition of the activity of the other examined enzymes by the extracts was weak. The observed biological activities and presence of bioactive phytochemicals can open new perspectives to develop novel dietetic supplements.

Extraction, purification and antioxidation of a polysaccharide from Fritillaria unibracteata var. wabuensis

Rich polysaccharides were directly observed in the bulbs of Fritillaria unibracteata var. wabuensis (FUW) using the periodic acid–Schiff (PAS) method and microexamination. An acidic water-soluble heteropolysaccharide (FWPS1-1) was isolated from FUW through ethanol precipitation, decoloration, deproteinization, dialysis and separation using a DE-52 anion-exchange column and a Sepharose G-150 gel filtration column. FWPS1-1 (average molecular weight: ~7.44 kDa) has many branches and long side chains; holds the triple-helix conformation; was composed of mannose (Man), galacturonic acid (GalA), galactose (Gal), xylose (Xyl) and arabinose (Ara) with a molar ratio of 2.62:5.59:10.00:0.76:9.38; and features side chains that may be composed of Ara, Man, Gal and GalA, while the backbone may be composed of Xyl, Ara and Gal. In addition, the backbone of FWPS1-1 mainly consists of α-type glycosidic bonds. Bioactivity tests in vitro showed that the polysaccharide exhibited weak 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity and low ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) but high 2,2-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)l (ABTS) radical scavenging activity, good Fe(II)-chelating ability and remarkable DNA damage protective activity. FWPS1-1 was the first heteropolysaccharide purified from FUW and showed good antioxidant activity and DNA protective effect. The results confirmed that macromolecule is also bioactive ingredient that requires attention like the small-molecule active compounds in FUW.

Flavonoid Enriched Fraction of Campylandra aurantiaca Attenuates Carbon Tetrachloride Induced Oxidative DNA Damage in Mouse Peritoneal Macrophages in Animal Model.

Recent studies have sought to draw attention of biological activity of Campylandra aurantiaca. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of flavonoid enriched fraction of Campylandra aurantiaca (FEFCA) on in vitro and in vivo antioxidant and DNA protective effect in mouse peritoneal macrophages cells. FEFCA was characterized by HPLC analysis. The in vitro antioxidant activities of FEFCA was measured by different in vitro assays like 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazil radical (DPPH), superoxide anions, nitric oxide and hydroxyl radicals scavenging methods. Isolated mouse peritoneal macrophages were oxidized by carbon tetra chloride (CCl4) in animal model; subsequently the protective effect of FEFCA was determined in terms of estimation of antioxidant enzyme and the damage to DNA of the cells. FEFCA exhibited both in vitro antioxidant activities in a concentration dependent manner. FEFCA significantly (*p<0.05) attenuated the oxidative DNA damage of mouse peritoneal macrophage cells induced by CCl4 in an in vivo assay. Therefore FEFCA showed good free radical scavenging activity as well as reduced oxidative DNA damage in mouse peritoneal macrophages in animal model.

Protective role of quercetin against copper(II)-induced oxidative stress: A spectroscopic, theoretical and DNA damage study

The radical scavenging and metal chelating properties of flavonoids indicate that they may play a protective role in diseases with perturbed metal homeostasis such as Alzheimer's disease. In this work we investigated the effect of the coordination of quercetin to copper(II) in view of the formation of ROS in Cu-catalyzed Fenton reaction. ABTS and DPPH assays confirmed that the copper(II)-quercetin complex exhibits a stronger radical scavenging activity than does quercetin alone. EPR spin trapping experiments have shown that chelation of quercetin to copper significantly suppressed the formation of hydroxyl radicals in the Cu(II)-Fenton reaction. DNA damage experiments revealed a protective effect for quercetin, but only at higher stoichiometric ratios of quercetin relative to copper. DNA protective effect of quercetin against ROS attack was described by two mechanisms. The first mechanism lies in suppressed formation of ROS due to the decreased catalytic action of copper in the Fenton reaction, as a consequence of its chelation and direct scavenging of ROS by free quercetin. Since the Cu-quercetin complex intercalates into DNA, the second mechanism was attributed to a suppressed intercalating ability of the Cu-quercetin complex due to the mildly intercalating free quercetin into DNA, thus creating a protective wall against stronger intercalators.

Protective Role of Acacia Nilotica Extracs and Silymarin against Mutagenic and Hepatic Injuries Induced by 2-Butoxyethanol in Male Mice

2-Butoxyethanol (2-BE) is a clear colorless liquid that smells like ether. It is used as a solvent in spray lacquers, varnishes, varnish removers, herbicides, liquid soaps, cosmetics, industrial and household cleaners, and dry-cleaning compounds. 2-BE causes cellular damage via formation of reactive oxygen species. Acacia nilotica (A.nilotica) leaf extract exhibited significant antimutagenic and DNA-protective effects against oxidative damage due to the presence of alkaloids, volatile essential oils, phenols and phenolic glycosides; it is considered an excellent free radical scavenging antioxidant owing to the high number of hydroxyl groups. Silymarin (SIL) is a standardized mixture of antioxidant flavonolignans (silybin and silibinin). Silybum marianum (Milk thistle) family Asteraceae is an ancient medicinal plant from which SIL is extracted. It is a free radical scavenger and a membrane stabilizer that prevents lipid peroxidation. In the present study, we investigated the effects of extracts of A.nilotica leaves and SIL on the toxicity of 2-BE. Materials and Methods: 2-BE was given orally to male albino mice for 28 days at dose (450μl/kg b.wt). A. nilotica leaf extract (25 mg/kg b.wt) was dissolved in water and was administered orally for 14 days prior to 28 days treatment of 2-BE and during the 28 days. Also SIL (20 mg/kg b.wt) was administered orally for 14 days prior to 28 days treatment of 2BE and during the 28 days. Result: In the present work, genotoxic effects were induced by 2-BE through oral administration, and the protective effect of A. nilotica and SIL are studied. 2-BE induced a significant increase in the structural as well as numerical chromosomal aberrations. The frequency of chromosomal aberrations showed significant decrease when mice treated with A. nilotica extract and SIL. Also, there were significant increases in micronuclei. A. nilotica extract and SIL administration significant decreases micronuclei induced by 2-BE. However 2-BE induced a significant decrease in mitotic index. Administration of both A. nilotica extract and SIL significant increase mitotic index in mice treated with 2-BE. Exposure of mice to 2-BE caused significant changes in the hematological paramters as well as significant increases in the activities of serum enzymes alanine aminotransferases (ALAT), aspartate aminotransferases (ASAT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Also, 2-BE induced a significant decrease in the content of liver reduced glutathione (GSH), however, induced a significant increase in the level of hepatic lipid peroxidation end product (MDA) of male mice. Co-administration of both A. nilotica extract and SIL to 2-BE-intoxicated mice ameliorated the above-mentioned parameters. Conclusion: 2-BE induced mutagenic and liver injury in male mice. A.nilotica and SIL are found to reduce the percentage of chromosomal aberration and micronuclei cells as they are a powerful antioxidant, they are able to scavenger reactive oxygen species (free radicals) formed by 2-BE in the cells, these free radicals damage DNA and hence cause defects in the chromosomes. A. nilotica extract and SIL could be used as a protective agent against mutagenic and hepatic injuries resulting from 2-BE. The protective action ofSILis more effective than A. nilotica.

Evaluation of Genotoxic and DNA Photo-Protective Activity of Bryothamnion triquetrum and Halimeda incrassata Seaweeds Extracts

The ultraviolet (UV) component of sunlight is high on the earth surface, especially at low latitudes, raising the risk of skin diseases, including cancer. The use of natural compounds is a strategy to protect people against UV damage. Seaweeds are becoming increasingly influential in the food industry, and are also used in the pharmacy and cosmetic industries, due to several bioactive demonstrated properties. This work analyzed the genotoxic and photoprotective effects of the aqueous extracts of two seaweed species: Bryothamnion triquetrum and Halimeda incrassata. A cell-free plasmid DNA assay was employed, allowing detection of DNA breaks. The plasmids were exposed to increasing concentrations of aqueous extracts. DNA break was produced at concentrations of 2.0 and 4.0 mg/mL in both seaweed extracts and, consequently, a genotoxic effect is postulated. This effect arises with higher exposure times. Additionally, different combinations of plasmid DNA, restriction enzymes (Eco RI, Bam HI, and Pvu II) and extracts were assayed. The extracts did not produce an interference effect in the reconnaissance of the specific restriction target sequences of each enzyme. Photoprotective activity of the extracts was evaluated in UVC-irradiated plasmids. None of the extracts displayed DNA protective effects in this assay.

Phytochemical Analysis, Antioxidant (Dna Nicking Assay) and Antibacterial Activities of Morus Nigra L. Fruits Secondary Metabolites

The present study was carried out to identify the chemical composition of ethanol, flavonoid and anthocyanin extracts of Morus nigra fruits. The results revealed the presence of carbohydrates, glycosides, phenolic compounds and the absence of alkaloids, saponins, free amino acids, proteins and tannins. TLC and column chromatography techniques were used to separate and purify the anthocyanin pigment from anthocyanin extract which is then subjected to acid hydrolysis to obtain the anthocyanidin pigment (a). Many techniques were also employed to confirm pigment (a) chemical structure including (TLC, UV-Visible and IR-Spectroscopy). According to the forgoing analytical results, the proposed structure for the isolated pigment (a) is cyanidin pigment. DNA nicking assay has been used to evaluate the ability of the prepared extracts and pigment (a) to prevent DNA nicking caused by free radicals generated from Fenton's reagent. The highest DNA protective effect was achieved in anthocyanin extract followed by pigment (a) and their effects were identical to the positive control (cyanidin chloride). Antibacterial activities of all extracts and pigment (a) were performed against the growth of two standards and pathogenic G+ and G- bacteria. The results indicated that all plants extracts showed more potent activity against standard bacteria strains than pathogenic ones.