Effect Of Hydroalcoholic Extract Research Articles

Anti-oxidative, anti-AChE and neuroprotective effect of hydro-alcoholic extract of Sansevieria cylindrica leaves and Plumeria obtusa seed pods in Wistar rats

The rising incidence of neurodegenerative diseases represents a significant global health concern. The prognosis for such diseases is often unfavorable, and patients require supportive treatment to manage their condition effectively. The present study investigated the anti-oxidative, anti-acetylcholinesterase (anti-AChE) effect of hydro-alcoholic extract of Sansevieria cylindrica leaves and Plumeria obtusa seed pods in Wistar rats. Plants were authenticated followed by pharmacognostic evaluation. The antioxidant and anti-AChE activities were evaluated by scopolamine-induced oxidative stress and acetylcholine level alterations in Wistar rats. On the 0th, 7th, and 14th days during study period behavioral parameters were evaluated, including open field test, new object recognition test, and Morris water maze task. Different antioxidant enzymes were also evaluated in brain homogenate post 7 days treatment. AChE levels in rats’ brains were assessed post 14 days of treatment. Finally, histopathology of brains samples was performed. Correspondingly, in-vitro and in-silico studies were done to support the study findings.ResultsSansevieria cylindrica and Plumeria obtusa exhibited strong antioxidant and anti-AChE activities due to secondary metabolites content. Rearing and, line crossing by rats showed substantial alteration (p < 0.05) by combination of both plants at high dose. The escape latency found to be reduced significantly (p < 0.05) by Sansevieria cylindrica individually and in combination with Plumeria obtusa at all doses. The lipid peroxidation level in brain was decreased significantly than standard at 1:1 combination of plants extracts. The levels of GSH, CAT and SOD were attenuated significantly by different concentration of extracts (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, respectively). The reduction in AChE levels was around 34.62% and 31.10% in male and female rats, respectively in combination of both plants at high dose compared to disease control group. It was further evident in brain histopathology. All in-vivo results were supported by in-vitro free radicals scavenging effect and in-silico study.ConclusionThe hydro-alcoholic extracts from Plumeria obtusa seed pods and Sansevieria cylindrica leaves showed a strong natural antioxidant, and acetylcholinesterase inhibitions which can aid in the treatment of neurodegerative diseases including Alzheimer.

Tanacetum parthenium and parthenolide increase defensive agents and promote antisecretory activity supporting their gastroprotective actions in rodents

Tanacetum parthenium is popularly used to treat gastric disorders. However, the gastroprotective activity has not yet been tested. This study evaluated the anti-ulcer gastric effects of hydroalcoholic extract from T. parthenium (HETp) and parthenolide (PTL), its bioactive compound. Our findings revealed a significant reduction in HETp (10, 30, or 100 mg/Kg) and PTL (5 and 50 mg/Kg) in ethanol and piroxicam-induced ulcers, and this evidence was corroborated histologically. In addition, we explored the acid antisecretory activity by the pylorus ligation. Moreover, in mice pre-treated with the inhibitors indomethacin, L-NAME, and yohimbine, the antiulcerogenic effects of HETp and PTL were abolished, suggesting the involvement of nitric oxide, adrenergic receptors and prostaglandins in gastroprotective effects. Additionally, HETp and PTL prevented the depletion of SOD and CAT and decreased the activity of MPO and the levels of GSH and LPO. The results suggest that gastroprotection of HETp and PTL involves different pharmacological pathways.

Effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Tanacetum parthenium on gene expression and paraoxonase 1 enzyme activity: An experimental and molecular dynamic study

Background and aims: Cardiovascular diseases are among the most common causes of death worldwide. The paraoxonase 1 (PON1) enzyme is a main factor in preventing these diseases. This study investigated the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Tanacetum parthenium plant on the activity and gene expression of PON1. Methods: Forty male rats were divided into 4 groups: a control group, a hyperlipidemic group, and two hyperlipidemic groups that were treated with 400 and 800 mg/kg of hydroalcoholic extract. Arylesterase activity of PON1 and serum triglyceride and cholesterol levels were measured. Moreover, the gene expression of PON1 in the liver tissue samples was measured using real-time PCR. Finally, molecular dynamics studies of apigenin as a main compound in the plant were performed to investigate the activity of PON1 in the simulated environment. Results: Hydroalcoholic extract of T. parthenium decreased serum triglyceride (from 105.8±10.1 to 60.5±21.5 and 50.9±11.2 mg/dL) and total cholesterol (from 97.5±16.8 to 59.6±8.5 and 52.0±9.6 mg/dL) levels, while it increased the activity of arylesterase paraoxonase1 significantly (P&lt;0.001). It also showed a significant (P&lt;0.001) effect on PON1 gene expression. However, the dose of 800 mg/kg was more effective. The results of simulation and molecular dynamics showed that apigenin binds to PON1 with a high affinity and induces changes in the molecular dynamics parameters. Conclusion: The 800 mg/kg of hydroalcoholic extract of T. parthenium can increase the activity of PON1 and its gene expression. It seems that apigenin as one of the most important antioxidant compounds of this plant can increase the activity of this enzyme by direct binding to PON1.

Effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Sambucus nigra on superficial digital flexor tendon repair in rabbit by ultrasonography and histopathology.

Adult tendon tissue has limited and slow regenerative capacity. Sambucus nigra plant possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory attributes. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of this plant's fruit on superficial digital flexor tendon repair in rabbits (SDFT). Twenty-five male New Zealand white rabbits weighing 1.5-2kg were selected, quarantined and randomly divided into four groups of six. By performing a partial left posterior limb tenotomy, differentiating the SDFT and creating multiple scrapes were performed. During 3 consecutive days post-surgery, the positive control group was injected with 0.5mg/kg dexamethasone, whereas the treatment groups received extract doses of 200 and 400mg/kg, respectively. The negative control group did not receive any medication. Evaluation of sonographic and histopathological parameters was conducted on days 0, 7 and 28 post-surgeries. Findings were analysed and compared using SPSS22. Both treatment groups showed significant differences in echogenicity, and collagen fibre alignment compared to the control and positive control groups, in sonographic evaluation. Histopathological examination revealed fewer inflammatory cells and increased collagen fibre formation in the treatment groups compared to the other two groups. No significant difference in angiogenesis was observed among the groups on days 7 and 28 (p value <0.05). The results indicate that the S. nigra fruit extract, by stimulating collagen synthesis and reducing inflammation, effectively accelerates the healing process of injured tendons.

The Biochemical Effects of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Quercus brantii Fruit on Morphine-Induced Amnesia in the Presence and Absence of Cholinergic Muscarinic Receptors in Adult Male Mice

Background: In our previous study, we demonstrated that oak hydroalcoholic extract improves memory impairment in a postpartum depression model due to its antioxidant properties. The purpose of this study is to further investigate the effect of oak on another amnesia model and explore the mediating role of cholinergic muscarinic receptors. Objectives: This study investigated the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of oak fruit on amnesia induced by morphine in the presence and absence of cholinergic muscarinic receptors, as well as changes in serum biochemical factors. Methods: In this experimental study, adult male mice were divided into groups: Control and morphine-receiving (5 and 7.5 mg/kg) groups to induce amnesia after training. In the groups receiving 7.5 mg/kg morphine, oak extract (1 and 10 mg/kg) was administered one day after training and continued for one week. Atropine (0.1 and 1 mg/kg) was injected only on the first day after training and before the oak extract injection. Passive avoidance memory was evaluated 1, 3, and 7 days after training using a step-down device. Motor activity was assessed using the open field test. Blood biochemical factors, including triglycerides, cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC), were measured after one week of injections. Results: Morphine (7.5 mg/kg) impaired memory on days 1 and 7 (P &lt; 0.05), while oak extract (1 and 10 mg/kg) improved memory (P &lt; 0.001). Additionally, the oak extract maintained its enhancing effect even in the presence of atropine, a cholinergic muscarinic system antagonist. Oak extract significantly increased HDL and TAC levels but did not affect LDL, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. Conclusions: These findings suggest that oak extract can improve morphine-induced amnesia due to its antioxidant effect, without involving the cholinergic system. Additionally, oak extract can increase beneficial lipids without affecting harmful lipids.

Exploring herbal preconditioning strategies to improve adipose tissue stem cell therapy efficacy

The application of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), specifically those sourced from adipose tissue, has become a focal point in regenerative medicine, showing potential for effective cell therapy. Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) offer hope in treating various conditions, yet their viability and integration rates are hindered by the harsh post-transplantation environment marked by inflammation and oxidative stress at the injury site. Lawsonia inermis (henna), Zizyphus spina-christi (Christ's Thorn), and Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) are three plants known for their potent antioxidant properties primarily due to their rich content of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Their potential health benefits make them valuable in both traditional medicine and modern therapeutic applications.This research delves into investigating and contrasting the effects of hydroalcoholic extracts from Lawsonia inermis, Zizyphus spina-christi, and Glycyrrhiza glabra on human adipose tissue stem cells as a pre-conditioning method to alleviate oxidative stress in cell therapy. ASCs were isolated from the pelvic cavity and abdomen, characterized using flow cytometry, and prompted to differentiate into adipogenic and osteogenic lineages. They were then subjected to different concentrations of the aforementioned herbal extracts at varying time frames, followed by MIC and MTT analysis. The MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay and the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) assay are both used to evaluate the effects of substances on cell viability and cell growth receptively. RNA extraction from ASCs and evaluation of antioxidant gene expression were conducted via Real-time PCR. Flow cytometry data confirmed the presence of MSC markers in the isolated cells from ASCs. Analysis of the herbal extract concentrations revealed that 50 ng/ml had a toxic effect on ASCs, establishing a toxicity reference point for adipose-derived MSCs. Real-time PCR results showcased a notable increase in the expression of antioxidant genes post-preconditioning with hydroalcoholic extracts. This study underscores, for the first time, the safety and lack of toxicity of preconditioning with these extracts for h.ASCs, enhancing their resilience and acclimatization under oxidative stress conditions, potentially boosting the therapeutic potential of h.ASCs. The antioxidant properties of Lawsonia inermis, Zizyphus spina-christi, and Glycyrrhiza glabra may enhance the expression of antioxidant genes (Sod, Gpx and Cata) through several mechanisms, including the activation of transcription factors like Nrf2 (Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2), which regulates antioxidant gene expression; modulation of signaling pathways such as MAPK (Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase) and PI3K/Akt (Phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Protein Kinase B); and influencing epigenetic modifications like histone changes or DNA methylation that can alter gene expression. However, further research is necessary to clarify the specific mechanisms by which these plant extracts enhance antioxidant gene expression and to explore their potential therapeutic applications in combating oxidative stress-related diseases. Future proposals should consider more gene investigation and in vivo applications, as well as the long-term effects of pre-conditioning.

Immunomodulation Induced in BALB/c Mice after Subacute Exposure to Hydroalcoholic Extract of Artimisia Dracunculus.

Tarragon, with the scientific name of Artemisia dracunculus, is a perennial herbaceous plant with a wide spectrum of pharmacologic properties. In the current investigation, BALB/c mice were used to examine the immunomodulatory effects of hydroalcoholic extract of tarragon (HET). Mice were treated with hydroalcoholic extract of Artimisia dracunculus (HET) at two doses (250 and 500 mg/kg) for 14 days. The host hematological parameters, spleen cellularity histopathology, hemagglutination titer assay (HA), delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) responses, IFN-γ and IL-4 levels produced by spelenocytes, and the proliferation of lymphocytes were assayed. HET at a high dose significantly could increase the number of white blood cells and lymphocytes compared to the control group. The lymphocyte proliferation in exposure to PHA significantly increased in the HET group at both doses compared to the control group, whilst this index in the presence of LPS increased significantly for the 500 mg/kg-HET group only. Moreover, in the HA and DTH tests, HET significantly increased the proliferation of lymphocytes as compared with the control group. Furthermore, HET significantly increased the amount of IFN-γ parallel to a decrease in the level of IL-4 in compared to the control group. Based on our findings, HET has potent immunostimulant characteristics. More investigation into tarragon's potential to be used in the treatment of disorders caused by a weakened immune response should be conducted.

The Effectiveness of Hydroalcoholic Extract and Fraction of Cucumis melo on Amelioration of High Fat Diet Induced hepatotoxicity: A Comprehensive Approach Integrating Computational and Preclinical Validation

The Effectiveness of Hydroalcoholic Extract and Fraction of Cucumis melo on Amelioration of High Fat Diet Induced hepatotoxicity: A Comprehensive Approach Integrating Computational and Preclinical Validation

Pharmacological evaluation of the protective effect of hydroalcoholic extract of walnut (Juglans regia L.) leaf on 6-mercaptopurine-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

Chemical hepatotoxicity can cause liver illnesses like hepatitis and cirrhosis. Mercaptopurine, an anti-tumor medication, has potential myelotoxicity. Natural plants contain hepatoprotective phytoconstituents. The study aimed to explore the protective effect of J. Reia hydroalcoholic leaf extract against MTP-induced liver injury in rats. Seven groups of rats were randomly selected: Control received only distilled water and food; MP at 40 mg kg-1 b.w; Silymarin at 50 mg kg-1 b.w; Juglans Leaf extract 400 mg kg-1 b.w; Juglans Leaf extract 400 mg kg-1 and 6-MP 40 mg kg-1; Silymarin 50 mg kg-1 and 6-MP 40 mg kg-1; Juglans Leaf extract (200 mg kg-1); silymarin 25 mg kg-1, and 6-MP 40 mg kg-1. Blood samples were collected on days: zero, 10 and 21 days. Liver injury was assessed by serum biochemical parameters (SGOT, SGPT, ALP), bilirubin, albumin and total protein in addition to histopathology changes. Administration of J. Reia leaf extract significantly lowered SGOT, SGPT, ALP levels and bilirubin in MTP-treated rats. Histopathological evaluation of livers showed that J. Regia leaves extract reduced cell swelling, fatty degeneration, and inflammation in MTP-treated rats. These findings indicate that J. Regia extract has a protective impact on Oxidative injury in rat liver caused by MTP. Moreover, extract is an effective antioxidant and hepatoprotective agent for reducing hepatocellular damage.

Effectiveness of hydroalcoholic extract of Nasturtium Officinale on sleep quality, asthma control and quality of life in asthmatic patients: a randomized controlled trial

Objectives: Considering the role of oxidants in asthma, airway inflammation, and the anti-inflammatory effects of Nasturtium officinale extract, this study aimed to investigate the impact of the hydroalcoholic extract of Nasturtium officinale on sleep quality, asthma control, and quality of life in asthmatic patients. Methods: This parallel group randomized clinical trial was conducted in Yasuj, Iran. It included 60 patients who randomly received either Nasturtium officinale hydroalcoholic extract (500 mg daily, for four weeks, orally plus routine care) or a placebo (500 mg capsule containing flour daily, for four weeks, orally plus routine care). To achieve the study objectives, lung function (FEV1, FVC, PEF, FEF 25-75%, and FEV1/FVC), quality of life as measured by the 12-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), sleep quality as measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and asthma control as examined by the Asthma Control Test (ACT) were assessed at baseline and one-month follow-up. Results: In total, 48 patients (22 patients in the intervention group and 26 patients in the control group) completed the study. The analyses showed no significant differences between the two groups regarding changes in lung function, quality of life, sleep quality, and status of asthma control within a one-month follow-up. Conclusion: The findings suggest that the hydroalcoholic extract of Nasturtium Officinale does not appear to improve sleep quality, asthma control, and quality of life in asthmatic patients in the short term.

The effect of hydro-alcoholic extracts of Salvia officinalis and Nasturtium officinale on clinical and standard candida isolates of candida in comparison with fluconazole

The effect of hydro-alcoholic extracts of Salvia officinalis and Nasturtium officinale on clinical and standard candida isolates of candida in comparison with fluconazole

Effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Chamomile, Aloe Vera, and Green Tea on the Diabetic Wound in Rats

Effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Chamomile, Aloe Vera, and Green Tea on the Diabetic Wound in Rats

Effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Berberis vulgaris L. fruit on the amount of angiogenesis in the chorioallantoic membrane of chicken embryos

Effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Berberis vulgaris L. fruit on the amount of angiogenesis in the chorioallantoic membrane of chicken embryos

The effect of Dracocephalum subcapitatum hydroalcoholic extract on dexamethasone-induced hyperlipidemic rats.

Recent data show the antihyperlipidemic activities of some plants belonging to the genus Dracocephalum. In this study, the effects of hydroalcoholic extract of D. subcapitatum (O. Kuntze) Lipsky aerial parts were evaluated in a model of hyperlipidemia induced by dexamethasone. The extract was prepared by maceration method and its total phenolic content was determined. Seven groups of 6 Wistar rats were used as follows: group 1 (normal control) received vehicle; group 2 (extract control) treated only with 200 mg/kg D. subcapitatum; group 3 (hyperlipidemia control) received dexamethasone (10 mg/kg/day, subcutaneously); group 4 (reference) received dexamethasone and atorvastatin (40 mg/kg, orally), and groups 5-7 (test groups) received dexamethasone and simultaneously treated orally with 50, 100, or 200 mg/kg D. subcapitatum. All treatments were done for 1 week. Serum lipid profile, fasting blood glucose, malondialdehyde concentration, and liver histopathology were examined. Total phenolic content was 77.34 ± 4.9 mg/g as gallic acid equivalent. Treatment with D. subcapitatum (200 mg/kg) meaningfully declined triglycerides, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, very low-density lipoprotein, blood glucose, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and malondialdehyde levels, and alleviated hepatic steatosis in dexamethasone-induced dyslipidemic rats. Findings of the current study suggest that D. subcapitatum may be effective in the management of hyperlipidemia. Further studies are necessary to determine the clinical efficacy of this treatment and to understand the underlying mechanisms responsible for its ability to lower lipid levels.

In vitro antioxidant effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Cassia tora aerial part using different models

Background: Free radicals, harmful by-products of a cell's natural metabolism, are responsible for various health problems. The search for plant-based supplements or medicines is always in high demand, as is the antioxidant activity that contributes to the therapeutic efficacy of plants. Aim: In the present study, the hydroalcoholic extracts from the aerial parts of Cassia tora were used for in vitro analysis of their antioxidant activity. Methods: Six separate assay methods were used to evaluate the antioxidant activity, i.e., against hydroxyl radical, DPPH, superoxide anions, nitric oxide, and also total flavonoid and phenolic content, were investigated. This was done by standardizing hydroalcoholic extract (70/30 ethanol to water) of Cassia tora and ascorbic acid. Results: Percentage scavenging activity and IC50 value were measured for extract prepared at various concentrations. The results IC50 values were 25.54 µg/ml, 45.04 µg/ml, 36.56 µg/ml, and 97.61 µg/ml for DPPH, superoxide radicals, hydroxyl radicals, and nitric oxide, respectively. Subsequently, the total phenolic and flavonoid content in the extract obtained was 1.927±0.73 mg GAE/gm and 1.018±0.29 mg QE/gm, respectively. Conclusion: The hydroalcoholic extract of Cassia tora contains more phytoconstituents. This suggests it has a wide range of medicinal antioxidant properties that make it helpful in treating many diseases. With the increasing demand for safer herbal treatments, scientific efforts in this field are making significant contributions and advances and supporting innovation.

Cardioprotective Effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Lepidium draba on Isoproterenol-Induced Acute Myocardial Infarction in Rats

Background: Recently, there has been increased interest in medicinal plants for the discovery of new compounds to treat various disorders. A few studies have highlighted the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Lepidium draba. Objectives: This study explores the potential cardioprotective effects of L. draba against myocardial infarction (MI) induced by isoproterenol. Methods: Isoproterenol (ISO) (100 mg/kg, injected subcutaneously for two consecutive days) was utilized to induce acute myocardial infarction in rats. The treated groups were administered hydroalcoholic extracts of L. draba intraperitoneally (ip) at doses of 50, 250, and 500 mg/kg for 2 consecutive days. Subsequently, the Electrocardiogram pattern, cardiodynamic parameters, cardiac remodeling, and lactate dehydrogenase levels were assessed. Results: The findings revealed that isoproterenol administration elevated the ST-segment and diminished the R-amplitude on the electrocardiogram, whereas treatment with L. draba extracts significantly ameliorated the ECG pattern. Isoproterenol injections lowered the mean arterial pressure (MAP), which was significantly increased by L. draba extract at all doses (P &lt; 0.05). Furthermore, isoproterenol injections elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels (P &lt; 0.05) and cardiac fibrosis (P &lt; 0.001), and treatment with the hydroalcoholic extract of L. draba significantly reduced both indices (P &lt; 0.001 and P &lt; 0.05, respectively). Conclusions: This study is the first to demonstrate that L. draba administration protects myocardial tissue from isoproterenol-induced infarction. Consequently, this plant could be recommended as an adjunct treatment for patients with acute MI.

Preclinical Evaluation of Paederia foetida leaves for Burn Wound Healing Activity

The leaves of Paederia foetida are commonly used in folk remedies to treat various types of wounds, especially burn wounds. The present study was carried out to evaluate the effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Paederia foetida on experimentally induced burn wound in rats and compare the effects with known wound healing agents, Silverex ointment and Aloe veragel. An appropriate gel formulation was chosen for topical application in this burn wound model. Animals treated with Paederia foetida leaves extract showed significant reduction in period of epithelialization and wound contraction 50% as compare to control and produced comparable effect as compare to Silverex ointment and Aloe vera gel. From the study It was concluded that Paederia foetida leaves extract applied topically (2.5% and 5% gel formulation) possesses burn wound healing activity.

Antioxidative Effects of Hydro-Alcoholic Extract and Essential Oil of Quercus brantii Exerts Anti-Depressant-Like Effect and Improvement of Memory Defect in Progesterone-Induced Postpartum Depression in Rats

Background: Depression and memory disorders are known to be associated with increased oxidative stress. There is evidence suggesting that Quercus brantii (Q. brantii) possesses antioxidant properties. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the impact of Q. brantii hydro-alcoholic extract and oil on cognitive dysfunction in a postpartum depression (PPD) model and on oxidant/antioxidant activity in the hippocampus of adult female rats. Methods: Forty-two female Wistar rats (200 - 250 g) were randomly divided into six groups. PPD was induced by chronic intraperitoneal administration (5 days) of progesterone at a dose of 5 mg/kg, and three days after discontinuation, depressive behavior was assessed using a forced swimming test. Simultaneously, Quercus brantii hydro-alcoholic extract (100 mg/kg) and oil (45%) were administered. Spatial memory and locomotor activity were evaluated 24 hours after training using the Morris water maze and open field tests, respectively. The hippocampus tissue of all rats was used to evaluate oxidant-antioxidant factors, Vitamin D, and corticosterone levels. Results: Quercus brantii extract significantly reduced depression (P &lt; 0.05). Treatment with Q. brantii extract and oil improved spatial memory and learning (P &lt; 0.05). The Q. brantii extract increased levels of SOD, GSH, catalase, and vitamin D while decreasing MDA levels; additionally, Q. brantii oil increased SOD and vitamin D levels and decreased MDA levels in the brain (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusions: Quercus brantii extract and oil appear to have beneficial effects on learning and memory impairment in a PPD-induced model, which may be associated with their biochemical effects on the brain.

Evaluation of serum pro/anti-angiogenic biomarkers in hyperglycemic rats treated with Securigera securidaca seeds, alone and in combination with Glibenclamide.

Herbal medicines are commonly used by many people with diabetes in addition to standard treatment. Plants contain numerous known and unknown compounds that may exacerbate or ameliorate diabetes complications. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of the side effects of these herbs before prescribing them. This study aimed to investigate the effects of hydroalcoholic extracts of Securigera securidaca (HESS) seeds alone and in combination with glibenclamide on the angiogenic/anti-angiogenic balance in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Groups involved in this animal study included diabetic and healthy controls, three doses of HESS, glibenclamide, and combination therapy. Serum samples were collected and analyzed for a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), fetal liver kinase 1 (FLK-1), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFLT-1), and transforming growth factor -beta (TGF-β). Induction of diabetes increased VEGF, FGF21, and TGF-β serum levels and decreased circulating FLK-1 and sFLT-1 factors. Herbal extract, except TGF-β, had little effect on the above blood levels even at the highest doses. Glibenclamide was more effective than the highest dose of HESS in improving the vascular complications of diabetes. Combination therapy with the highest dose of HESS partly enhanced the glibenclamide effects. Compared with glibenclamide as a standard chemical drug, HESS had no significant effects on the blood levels of the pro/anti-angiogenesis factor in diabetic rats. Glibenclamide attenuated the levels of the biomarkers and its effects were somewhat enhanced in combination with the highest dose of HESS.

Effect of hydro-alcoholic extract of Nigella sativa on cisplatin-induced memory impairment and brain oxidative stress status in male rats.

Studies have shown the complications of chemotherapy on learning and memory. Empirical evidence suggests that Nigella sativa (NS) has neuroprotective activities. Therefore, the aim of our study was to investigate the effects of NS on cisplatin-induced memory impairment. This study was conducted on 40 male rats grouped as: control (saline: 2 ml/kg, intraperitoneally (IP), once weekly/2 weeks), cisplatin (Cis, 2 mg/kg, IP, once weekly/2 weeks), NS (200 mg/kg, IP, once weekly/2 weeks), Cis +NS 200 (2 mg/kg Cis + 200 mg/kg NS, IP, once weekly/2 weeks), and Cis +NS 400 (2 mg/kg Cis + 400 mg/kg NS, IP, once weekly/2 weeks). Morris water maze (MWM) test was used to assess spatial learning and memory. In addition, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and thiol and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were evaluated in the brain. Cis significantly enhanced the traveled distance and time spent in the target quadrant in the MWM test. Additionally, MDA levels increased in the Cis group, while thiol and SOD decreased in this group. As a result of treatment with NS, behavioral results were reversed in the groups receiving NS compared to the Cis group. Also, NS reduced MDA level but improved SOD and thiol levels in brain tissue samples. NS could improve memory impairment and oxidative stress in animals receiving Cis. Therefore, NS could be used as a potential food supplement to prevent neurotoxicity in patients undergoing chemotherapy.