Ethanol Extract Of Bark Research Articles

Phytochemical profile, antioxidant and contractile activity of plants extracts used by parturients to manage childbirth in Niger

The widespread use of herbal preparations during childbirth and postnatal care in some developing countries is generating interest in scientific research about their standardized use. This study aims to compare the phytochemical profiles, the antioxidant properties, and the contractile effects of plants used to manage the childbirth of seven samples of plants (bark of Acacia senegal (L.) Willd, leaves and bark of Sclerocarya birrea, leaves of Lawsonia inermis L, whole plant of Sesamum alatum, whole plant of Ceratotheca sesamoides Endl. and brak of Ficus platyphylla). Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening was carried out using HPTLC and colorimetric methods. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH, ABTS and FRAP methods. Enzyme inhibition was performed on lipid peroxidation (LPO) and 15-Lipoxygenase (15-LOX). The contractile effect of uterine smooth muscle in NMRI mice was assessed ex vivo. The screening revealed the presence of several phytoconstituents, such as tannins, flavonoids, coumarins, saponins, sterols, and triterpenes. The highest content of phenolic compounds and tannins, respectively 980.61 ± 0.60 and 764.80 ± 0.54 µg GAE/mg dE, were obtained with the ethanolic extract of bark of Sclerocarya birrea (eth-Dn-e). The highest content of flavonoids (456.95 ± 0.89 µg QE/mg dE) was obtained with the ethanolic extract of Ceratotheca sesamoides (eth-Y). The ethanolic extract of Ficus platyphylla bark (eth-G) effectively reduced DPPH, with an IC50 of 1.46 ± 0.06 µg/mL. The highest ferric ion-reducing power was obtained with Sclerocarya birrea bark decoction (Da-Dn-e), (78.95 ± 5.74 mmol AAE/g). Ethanolic macerate of Acacia senegal bark (eth-D) showed the lowest IC50 against 15-LOX at 32.18 µg/mL. The aqueous macerate of Ceratotheca sesamoides (Ma-Y) gave the highest percentage inhibition of LPO, at 62.07 ± 0.01 %. The highest uterine contraction at 10 mg/mL was 1.38 [A(cm)/uterus(cm)], obtained with ethanolic maceration of the whole plant of Ceratotheca sesamoides Endl. (eth-Y). The traditional use of plants during childbirth could be linked to the antioxidant and/or uterotonic effects of phytoconstituents. These constitutes a scientific basis that could justify the use of these plants in the management of childbirth.

Determination of SPF (Sun Protection Factor) Value of Lotion Preparation of Ethanol Extract of Akway Bark (Drymis Piperita Hook F.) of West Papua

Akway bark (Drymis piperita Hook f.) has antioxidant activity. It contains secondary metabolite compounds, one of which is flovonid so that it can be utilized as protection against UV rays and developed into pharmaceutical preparations, namely lotions. The aim of the study was to test the physical stability and determine the SPF value of lotion preparations of ethanol extract of akway bark analyzed in vitro. The test includes the determination of SPF value by UV-vis spectrophotometry method. The absorbance was measured at the wavelength of UV B light (290-320 nm) with an interval of 5 nm; the Mansur formula calculated the results obtained. The test results showed that The results of the stability test showed that the lotion preparation of akway bark extract was stable in organoleptic testing, elution type test, homogeneity test, the stickiness test, spreadability test, pH test, protective power test and the SPF value of lotions with concentrations of 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5% obtained an average SPF value of 5.20 ± 0.00 in the medium protection category that protected the skin for 52 minutes; 11.52 ± 0.00 maximum protection that protected the skin for 115 minutes; and 5.20 ± 0.00 in the maximum protection category that protected the skin for 115 minutes. 16.00 ± 0.03 ultra protection will protect the skin for 160 minutes from UV B exposure. Thus, it can be concluded that the variation in concentration of akway bark extract affects the SPF value and can potentially be a sunscreen with moderate to ultra protection category.

Antitrypanosomal activities of ethanol extract of Harungana madagascariensis Lam. ex Poir against Trypanosoma brucei brucei - An in vivo model

African trypanosomiasis constitutes public health and veterinary challenges in sub-Saharan Africa. Development of vaccine for its prevention is beset with challenges. Hence, trypanosomiasis control is premised on vector control and treatment of identified cases. Effect of oral administration of ethanol extract of stem bark of H. madagascariensis on Trypanosoma brucei brucei (Federe strain) was investigated in experimentally-infected rat model. Harungana madagascariensis stem bark powder (300 g) was macerated in 1.5 l of 100 % n-hexane for 48 hours. The residue was dried and re-macerated in 1.5 l of 70 % ethanol for 48 hours. The filtrate was dried by evaporation on water bath at 60oC. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, anthraquinones, saponins, phenols and tannins. Acute toxicity test revealed oral LD50 > 5000 mg/kg body weight. Oral administration of the extract did not exert curative effect. Parasitaemia persisted in the extract treated rats (Group A-1250 mg/kg and Group B-2500 mg/kg body weight) till death. Rats administered 1250 mg/kg body weight outlived all inoculated rats by 2 days despite the significant (P < 0.05) rise in parasitaemia. Anaemia was ameliorated in rats taking 1250 mg/kg body weight compared to groups B, C and D that were severely anaemic. Emaciation was ameliorated in both extract-treated groups A and B compared to groups C and D. Harunga madagascariensis demonstrated promising prospects as potential source of therapeutic agent for ameliorating the severity of anaemia and African trypanosomiasis.

Acute Toxicity Assessment of Cream Ethanolic Extract of Vitex pinnata Bark from Central Kalimantan.

Vitex pinnata bark has the ability to scavenge free radicals and has antimicrobial activity, thus accelerating wound healing. The formulation of V. pinnata bark preparations has good organoleptic properties, homogenity, pH, dispersion, and absorption. We studied the acute toxicity of V. pinnata skin cream in Wistar rats according to OECD guidelines 402. Seven nulliparous, non-pregnant female Wistar rats were exposed 2000 mg/kg of body weight. There were no signs of toxicity in any behavioral, necropsy dan histopathological changes. The Globally Harmonized System classified V. pinnata cream extract as category 5 (unclassified) with LD50 more than two thousand mg/kg.

Therapeutic potential of Zanha africana (Radlk.) Exell: antimycobacterial activity and safety evaluation

BackgroundZanha africana (Radlk.) Exell extracts are commonly utilized in Tanzania and other countries for treating conditions associated with HIV and AIDS, including tuberculosis (TB). In Tanzania, it is listed among the most frequently traded plant species for medicinal use in different marketplaces. However, limited literature exists regarding its antimycobacterial properties and safety profile. ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate Z. africana ethanolic extract for safety and antimycobacterial activity. MethodsThe antimycobacterial activity of the crude extracts was assessed using the broth microdilution method against various non-pathogenic mycobacteria strains including Mycobacterium aurum (MA), Mycobacterium madagascariense (MM), and Mycobacterium indicus pranii (MIP). Bioassay-guided fractionation was employed to isolate the active compounds. The safety profile of the crude extract was investigated through cytotoxicity assay on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and the brine shrimp lethality test. ResultsThe 80% ethanolic extracts of Z. africana demonstrated activity against all tested non-pathogenic mycobacteria. The antimycobacterial activity of ethanolic extract of the stem bark was 625 µg/mL, 313 µg/mL and 125 µg/mL against MA, MM, and MIP, respectively. The most potent fraction was the ethyl acetate fraction, from which two active compounds were isolated: proanthocyanidin A2; Compound (1) and its monomer epicatechin, Compound (2). Compound (1) exhibited higher antimycobacterial activity compared to compound (2) with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 19.50 µg/mL and 12.98 µg/mL against MM and MIP respectively. The ethanolic extract did not demonstrate toxicity on PBMCs and brine shrimps. ConclusionThis study demonstrates that Z. africana extracts and the isolated compounds possess antimycobacterial activity. This provides evidence supporting the traditional use of Z. africana extracts for TB management. Further research is recommended to comprehensively evaluate the efficacy and safety of the plant constituents using different models.

Unraveling the metabolomic profile and acute toxicity of ethanolic extract from Mimosa tenuiflora (Willd.) Poir. root bark

Mimosa tenuiflora (Fabaceae) is popularly known in Brazil as “Jurema preta”. From the bark of its root, “jurema wine” is obtained, a psychedelic drink used in Indigenous religious rituals in Northeastern Brazil. This work aimed to investigate the chemical composition and acute oral toxicity of the ethanolic extract of the root bark from M. tenuiflora (EEMt). EEMt was analyzed by UPLC-QToF-MS/MS and DI-ESI-IT-MSn. Oral administration of EEMt was performed once at doses of 300 and 2000 mg/kg in female Swiss mice. Signs and symptoms of intoxication, as well as mortality were monitored for 14 days. Thirteen compounds were annotated in EEMt: eight type B proanthocyanidins, three alkaloids, a glycosylated flavonol, and a dihydrochalcone derivative. The acute administration of 300 and 2000 mg/kg of EEMt did not show mortality. It also did not change the food intake or body weight of the animals. However, the relative weights of the kidneys were significantly changed for both doses. Changes in hematological and biochemical parameters were found. In addition, histopathological changes were also observed in the heart, liver, and kidneys. Thus, based on our findings, EEMt presented an LD50 greater than 2000 mg/kg and was therefore classified in category 5 of the Globally Harmonized Classification System (GHS). EEMt showed acute oral toxicity by altering hematological, biochemical and histological parameters.

Investigation of Anti-Diabetic Properties of Ceylon Cinnamon Bark Extracts by In-Vitro α-Amylase and α-Glucosidase Inhibition, Molecular Modeling, and Postprandial Blood Glucose Regulation for Potential Nutraceuticals

Background: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) can appear due to the absence of insulin (DM1- type 1) or poor response of cells to insulin (DM2-type 2). Even though DM1 cannot be controlled using general treatments, DM2 can be easily controlled or prevented using pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, or dietary practices. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) is one such natural remedy that has been consumed against elevated blood glucose levels in the past. Cinnamon and different types of cinnamon extracts have been scientifically tested for their activities on the inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes that are responsible for carbohydrate metabolism and are effective in blood glucose regulation. However, the combined effect of aqueous and ethanol extracts of cinnamon bark on blood glucose regulation is still lacking. In this study, Water Extract of Cinnamon (CWE), Ethanol Extracts of Cinnamon (hot ethanol extract of cinnamon-CHEE, cold ethanol extract of cinnamon-CEE, and 50% ethanol extract of cinnamon- CEE-50) were studied for their sugar-controlling properties. Objectives: This study was performed to identify the efficacy of different cinnamon extracts on the inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, followed by animal studies to confirm the use of the extracts in nutraceutical formulations. Methods: Water and ethanol-based extraction method was used to prepare cinnamon extracts. These extracts have been scientifically tested for their activities on the inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes. Molecular docking studies were used to identify the binding of the active molecules to the substrate binding sites of α-amylase and α-glucosidase. In-vivo time dependence postprandial blood glucose regulation studies have been performed with healthy Wistar male rats. Results: Yields of the CHEE, CEE, and CWE were 14±2%, 12±2%, and 8±1% respectively. According to the LCMS data, the major component in the CEE was cinnamaldehyde. Both CWE and CEE were subjected to the Total Polyphenol assay (TPC) and Total Flavonoids (TFC) assays. The TPC of CWE and CEE were 117±1 mg (Gal)/g and 170±10 mg (Gal)/g, while the TFC of CWE and CEE were 359±1 mg (Qc)/g and 254±4 mg (Qc)/g, respectively. In the α-amylase inhibition assay, Acarbose; a known α-amylase inhibitor, and CEE showed IC50 values of 65.4 ppm and 2.6 ppm, while CWE failed to show inhibition against α-amylase. In the α-glucosidase inhibition assay, Acarbose; a known α-amylase inhibitor, CEE, and CWE showed IC50 values of 312 ppm, 4.5 ppm, and 1.3 ppm, respectively. In-vivo time dependence postprandial blood glucose regulation studies that have been performed with healthy Wistar male rats showed a lowering of blood glucose concentrations by 22%, 11%, and 10% of glucose at 30 min, 60 min, and 90 min compared to the control group. Conclusion: The CEE contains polyphenols and flavonoids and is effective in inhibiting both α- amylase and α-glucosidase. The CWE also contains polyphenols and a comparatively higher level of flavonoids and is effective in inhibiting α-glucosidase while not affecting α-amylase inhibition. Overall, the IC50 data, TPC data, and TFC data proposed that the inhibition of carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes by polyphenols may depend on the polarity of particular polyphenols. Based on the rat trials, it can be concluded that the 1:1 combination of CWE and CEE may be useful in formulating postprandial blood glucose level-regulating nutraceuticals.

Assessing anti oxidant, antidiabetic potential and GCMS profiling of ethanolic root bark extract of Zanthoxylum rhetsa (Roxb.) DC: Supported by in vitro, in vivo and in silico molecular modeling.

Zanthoxylum rhetsa (ZR) is used traditionally to manage a variety of ailments, including diabetes. Oxidative stress may accelerate the diabetic condition. The available antidiabetic and antioxidant drugs have many shortcomings including resistance, inefficiency, higher dose, side effects and costs. The goal of the current investigation was to assess the antioxidant capacity and antidiabetic activity of an ethanolic extract of Zanthoxylum rhetsa root bark (ZRRB) through in vitro, in vivo, and in silico methods. The antioxidant capacity of the ZRRB extract was measured using both the DPPH radical assay and the total antioxidant activity test. The oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and alloxan-induced diabetic mice model were also used to examine in vivo antidiabetic efficacy. Phytochemicals identification was done by GCMS analysis. Additionally, computational methods such as molecular docking, ADMET analysis, and molecular dynamics (MD) modeling were performed to determine the above pharmacological effects. The extract demonstrated significant DPPH scavenging activity (IC50 = 42.65 μg/mL). In the OGTT test and alloxan-induced diabetes mice model, the extract effectively lowered blood glucose levels. Furthermore, in vitro inhibition of pancreatic α-amylase studies demonstrated the ZRRB extract as a good antidiabetic crude drug (IC50 = 81.45 μg/mL). GCMS investigation confirmed that the crude extract contains 16 major phytoconstituents, which were docked with human peroxiredoxin-5, α-amylase, and sulfonylurea receptor 1. Docking and pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated that among 16 phytoconstituents, 6H-indolo[3,2,1-de] [1,5]naphthyridin-6-one (CID: 97176) showed the highest binding affinity to targeted enzymes, and imitated Lipinski's rule of five. Furthermore, MD simulation data confirmed that the aforementioned compound is very steady to the binding site of α-amylase and sulfonylurea receptor 1 receptors. Findings from in vitro, in vivo and in silico investigation suggest that ZRRB extract contains a lead compound that could be a potent source of antidiabetic drug candidate.

Use of Guazuma ulmifolia Lam. Stem Bark Extracts to Prevent High-Fat Diet Induced Metabolic Disorders in Mice.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of supplementation with ethanolic and aqueous extracts from the bark of the stem of Guazuma ulmifolia in mice submitted to a high-fat diet as well as to evaluate the chemical composition of these extracts. The chemical composition and antioxidant potential was evaluated in aqueous and ethanolic extracts of the stem bark. The in vivo test consisted of evaluating the effects of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of the stem bark on C57BL/6 mice receiving a high-fat diet. The animals were evaluated for weight gain, feed consumption, visceral adiposity, serum, and inflammatory and hormonal parameters. The results of the chemical analyses corroborate those obtained by the literature, which reported gallocatechin, epigallocatechin and epigallocatechin gallate. Compared with the ethanolic extract, the aqueous extract showed greater antioxidant capacity. Both extracts resulted in lower feed consumption in the animals, but they did not influence weight gain or visceral adiposity and resulted in varied changes in the lipid profile. In addition, they did not influence glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, or fasting blood glucose. Furthermore, the leptin levels increased, which may have contributed to satiety, but this was shown to have a negative impact on other inflammatory and hormonal parameters. Therefore, under the conditions of this study, the biologically active compounds present in the plant species Guazuma ulmifolia were not able to contribute to the treatment of metabolic changes related to the consumption of a high-fat diet.

Antioxidant Activity Test of Outstreched Bark Extract (Campnosperma Brevipetiolatum Volkens) using the DPPH Method

Outstretched bark (Campnosperma brevipetiolatum Volken) is rich in tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins. Herbal plants contain flavonoids, which are excellent antioxidants. Determine the amounts of phytochemical substances present in the sample and assess the antioxidant activity using the DPPH (1.1-diphenyl, 2-picrylhydrazil) technique at concentrations of 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, and 300 parts per million. The presenance of alkaloids alkaloids, saponins, and tannins was detected in the phytochemical screening findings against ethanol extracts of outstretched bark. 96% ethanol solvent is used in the maceration technique of extraction. Vitamin C is the positive control utilized. According to the findings of tests for antioxidant activity, ethanol extract at 11.25 ppm has a very high potential for antioxidant activity because its IC50 value is 3.55 ppm.

Mesua assamica (King & Prain) kosterm. bark ethanolic extract attenuates rheumatoid arthritis via down-regulating TLR4/NF-κB/COX-2/iNOS and activation of Nrf2/HO-1 pathways: A comprehensive study on in-vitro and in-vivo models

Ethnopharmacological relevanceRheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a multifactorial, polygenic inflammatory disease. Mesua assamica (King & Prain) Kosterm. (MA) is an endangered medicinal plant indigenous to South Asia, primarily to Assam in India. The tree bark is claimed to possess anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and anti-malarial properties; nevertheless, its role in RA has not been elucidated. Hence, this study aims to investigate the in-vitro and in-vivo anti-arthritic effects of Mesua assamica bark ethanolic extract (MAE). Aim of the studyThis study aims to investigate the anti-rheumatic potential of MAE in-vitro on RAW 264.7 cells for its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and in-vivo on the CFA-induced adjuvant arthritis in the rat model. Materials and methodsWe investigated the possible therapeutic effects of MAE in-vitro using RAW 264.7 cells triggered by LPS. Meanwhile, adult Wistar rats were injected intradermally with 100 μl of CFA to induce arthritis, and they were given MAE orally at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg for up to 28 days. Paw volume analysis, X-ray radiography, anti-oxidant levels analysis, gene and protein expression studies, and histological analysis were carried out to assess the effects of MAE in-vivo. ResultsMAE significantly mitigated the inflammation by reducing ROS levels and dropped the nitrite, PGE2, and COX-2 levels enhanced by LPS in-vitro. At the same time, MAE treatment reduced the paw and joint inflammation and increased the immune organ index in the CFA rats. Histopathology data revealed that MAE mitigated the CFA-induced lesions of the ankle joints and synovial tissues. Similarly, MAE significantly abated the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, inhibited the protein expression of TLR4, NF-кB, COX-2, and iNOS, as well as improved the Nrf2 and HO-1 levels in-vitro and in-vivo. ConclusionAll the results highlighted the anti-rheumatic potential of MAE in RA in-vitro and in-vivo by inhibiting the TLR4/NF-кB/COX-2/iNOS and promoting the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling axis.

Pengaruh Pelarut Metanol dan Etanol Terhadap Kadar Flavonoid Total Ekstrak Kulit Pohon Waru (Hibiscus tiliaceus L.)

Sea hibiscus (Hibiscus tiliaceus L.) is one of the plants in Indonesia that is empirically used as a traditional medicine. The study aims to determine the total flavonoid content of methanol and ethanol extracts from the sea hibiscus tree bark using UV-Vis spectrophotometry. Phytochemical screening of flavonoids is done using concentrated magnesium and hydrochloric acid (HCl). Total flavonoid levels are determined using the AlCl3 method specified in the QE (Quercetin equivalent). The phase of the research method includes preparation of methanol extract and ethanol extracts, phytochemical screening of flavonoid content, quantitative analysis of the flavonoid content (determination of the maximum wavelength (λmax) of quercetin, standard curve preparations of quercetin, and determination of flavonoid contents in methanol extract and ethanol extract), data management and analysis. Phytochemical screening showed methanol extracts and ethanol extract of the Sea Hibiscus tree bark showed positive contain flavonoids. Quantitative tests using UV-Vis spectrophotometry measured at 441 nm wavelengths showed that the concentration of flavonoid compounds in the Sea Hibiscus tree bark methanol extract was 0.109 %b/b, and the concentrations of flavonoids in the ethanol extracts were 0.096 %b/b.

15-lipoxygenase and serine protease inhibitory activities of Heritiera fomes (buch. -ham), a mangrove plant of the Sundarbans

15-Lipoxygenase (15-Lox) oxidizes fatty acid, thereby producing inflammatory mediators which cause diverse inflammatory diseases such as atherosclerosis, asthma, cancer etc. Serine proteases are enzymes that activate tissue factor VII by proteolytic cleavage, eventually activating blood coagulation pathway. Antioxidants play role in 15-Lox and serine protease inhibition to dampen elevation of cytokine levels, thereby function as anti-inflammation and anticoagulation agent. In this study, we examined 15-Lox and serine protease inhibitory activities of the ethanolic bark and leaf crude extract of Heritiera fomes. The crude bark extract (HFB) exhibited 15-Lox and serine protease inhibition with IC50 117.14 and 409.61 μg/ml, respectively. Chromatographically separated active fraction HFBPF1 demonstrated highest 15-Lox and serine protease inhibitory activity with IC50 62.68 and 72.62 μg/ml, respectively. The antioxidant activity and total flavonoid content were substantially increased in the chromatographic fractions compared to the crude extracts. The LC-MS/MS analysis of bark and leaf active fractions revealed the presence of 2,4,6-octatrienal, apigenin 7 (4˝-Z-p-coumerylglucoside), brosimacutin B, gambrin B2, kandelin A1 and tetraneurin A which we report for the first time in H. fomes. Therefore, we conclude the significant augmentation in the 15-Lox and serine protease inhibition activity of the fractions which could be exerted by the enriched flavonoid content.

Bioactive compounds from the bark of <i>Juniperus communis</i> (Cupressaceae)

The paper presents the results of the study of Juniperus communis L. (Cupressaceae) bark composition. It is shown that the juniper’s bark contains 3.5 times more extractives than its wood. Individual component composition of ethanol and petroleum extracts of J. communis bark was confirmed using gas chromatography – mass spectrometry. Difference in the component composition of ethanol and petroleum bark extracts was determined. The major constituents of J. communis ethanol extract are monosaccharides, disaccharides and resin acids; of petroleum extract – resin and fatty acids, and sterols. It has been established, that ethanol extract of J. communis bark exhibit high antioxidant activity. The ABTS radical inhibition activity of the bark alcoholic extract reached 86–87%. Based on the conducted research, it can be concluded that in the subarctic region the bark of J. communis is a source of valuable bioactive substances.

Methanol fraction of ethanol extract of Dialium guineense stem bark reduces oxidative stress in STZ-induced diabetic rat pancreas

Methanol fraction of ethanol extract of Dialium guineense stem bark reduces oxidative stress in STZ-induced diabetic rat pancreas

Phytochemical screening and antimicrobial activity of Corymbia torelliana (Myrtaceae) bark extracts

Infectious diseases represent a real public health problem. They are widespread in several regions of the world, particularly in developing countries. Opportunistic pathogens from fungal, bacterial and parasitic infections are the main causes. The aim of this study is to scientifically validate the therapeutic properties attributed to the bark of Corymbia torelliana (Myrtaceae), a plant used in the treatment of various infections in Côte d'Ivoire. It consisted of carrying out a phytochemical screening and assessing the antimicrobial activity of aqueous (EAq), hexanolic (Ehex) and ethanolic (Eeth) extracts of the plant bark on Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae, Enterobacter aerogenes, Trichophyton rubum and Aspergillus fumigatus. After the extractions had been carried out, phytochemical analysis of the three extracts revealed the presence of gall tannins, sterols/terpenes, polyphenols, saponosides, flavonoids and quinones, and a total absence of catechic tannins and alkaloids. The assessment of the antimicrobial activity of Corymbia torelliana bark extracts showed that the plant has bacteriostatic activity for all three extracts on all the bacterial strains tested, namely Escherichia coli (MBC=32mg/mL), Enterobacter cloacae (MBC>32mg/mL) and Enterobacter aerogenes (MBC>32mg/mL). Similarly, the hexanic extract showed fungicidal activity on Trichophyton rubum (MBC=50mg/mL) and Aspergillus fimugatus (MBC=25mg/mL) compared to the other two extracts.

Properties and hydrophobization of nonwoven-woven all-cellulose composites

All-cellulose composites (ACCs) have been fabricated by using a variety of cellulosic sources, versatile technologies, and are sustainable alternatives for traditional composites. In this study, nonwoven-woven ACC laminates were created from wood-based Spinnova short fibers and Lyocell fabrics via partial dissolution and an NaOH-urea solvent system. The less-known wood-based Spinnova fiber is created for the textile industry, but it also has great potential for the composite industry. To identify the mechanical properties of ACCs—which greatly influence the range of material application—tensile, impact, and flexural tests were conducted. The mechanical properties indicated only moderate properties, which are influenced by high porosity and weak fiber bonding. Despite this, valuable information on the nonwoven-woven structured ACCs was obtained. To improve the ACC laminate’s ability to resist moisture, bio-based coatings (e.g., commercially available birch bark betulin and suberin acid mixture) were applied on the surface of ACCs and it successfully improved the wetting resistance. The results of contact angle analyses demonstrated that the highest contact angle of 128° was measured for betulin-coated laminates and the best stable hydrophobicity calculated a minute after the beginning of the experiment were observed at 109° for the uncommercial pressurized hot ethanol (PHE) extract of birch bark.

Himatanthus bracteatus stem bark ethanolic extract obtained by sequential pressurized liquid extraction: Chromatographic characterization and profiling of cytotoxic, antitumoral and immunopharmacological properties

This study aims to characterize the cytotoxic, antitumoral and immunopharmacological profile of the ethanolic extract of Himatanthus bracteatus (EEHB) stem bark. Chromatographic analysis revealed the major EEHB composition in dimethyl isoplumerideo acid, 13-deoxyplumerido, isoplumeride, and plumeride. Cytotoxicity was performed on MCF-7 and MCF-10A cell lines using MTT assay. The antitumor activity was assessed using sarcoma 180 tumor cells subcutaneously implanted in mice. After seven days, hematological and biochemical analysis, and pathological evaluation of tumors and visceral organs were carried out. The IC50 value was 28.49 ± 2.05 μg/mL on MCF7 cells, but over 320 μg/mL on MCF-10A cells. Molecular docking was predicted using the caspase 3 molecular target with plumeride and isoplumeride ligands. Both compounds were also analyzed by PreADMET. The tumor growth inhibition was comparable to 5-FU. EEHB reduced the proliferative index (Ki67 immunoexpression) but increased the expression of apoptotic markers in a sarcoma 180 model. The ligands showed interaction with Caspase 3 with a binding energy between −7.2 and −6.6 kcal/mol for isoplumeride and −7.8 to −7.0 kcal/mol for plumeride. Hydrogen interactions were present between the ligands and caspase 3. Both phytochemicals showed low or no permeability in blood-brain barrier and medium permeability in Caco-2 cells and only isoplumeride showed mutagenic potential and carcinogenic. EEHB presented no toxicological effect either on the hematological parameters or average weight and histological features of liver, kidneys, and spleen. Our data suggest that EEHB has antitumor activity in S-180 tumor-bearing mice by blocking cell cycle and increasing apoptosis.

Effect of ethanolic stem bark extract of Annona muricata (soursop) on reproductive hormones and ovary in female Wistar rats

The effect of ethanol extract of stem bark of Annona muricata (soursop) on reproductive hormones and ovaries of Wistar rats was studied. The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, flavones, flavonols, xanthones, flavanonols, flavonones, and condensed tannins. Twenty (20) experimental animals were randomly grouped into five groups of 4 rats per group and were allowed to acclimatize for 2 weeks. Rats in group A served as the control and were fed with rat feed and water, rats in group B severed as positive control and received low dose clomiphene citrate (20 mg/kg) daily for 21 days, rat feed and water, rats in groups C to E were fed with normal rat feed, water and received different doses of fresh stem bark of Annona muricata extract at 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg respectively for 21 days. The animals were sacrificed under anesthesia after the experiment and the ovaries were surgically extracted, weighed and sent for histology. Blood samples were collected for analysis (hormonal assay of luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), progesterone and prolactin. This was carried out using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. The results showed that there were significant changes in the hormone level of the test groups when compared with the control rats. Significant increase was recorded in progesterone, estrogen, prolactin, follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone p< 0.05. Hence Annona muricata improves fertility in female Wistar rats. There were no histological changes in the ovaries and hence, it was concluded that Annona Muricata does not cause organ damage with increasing dose.

Bombax costatum Pellegr. & Vuillet attenuates pentylenetetrazol-induced seizure and cognitive impairment in rats via inhibition of oxidative stress

ObjectivesEpilepsy is a neurological disorder resulting from excessive electrical discharge in the brain. Bombax costatum (BC) is an herb being used in African traditional medicine for the treatment of seizures. This study evaluated the possible anti-convulsant potential of stem bark ethanolic extract of BC on PTZ-induced kindling in rats.MethodsThirty-five Wistar rats were grouped into five (n = 7) and received normal saline, 35 mg/kg of PTZ, 5 mg/kg diazepam followed by 35 mg/kg PTZ after 30 min and BC stem back ethanolic extract at 125 mg/kg and 250 mg/kg followed by 35 mg/kg of PTZ intraperitoneally after 30 min. BC was administered orally daily while normal saline and PTZ were given intraperitoneally every other day for 26 days. Seizure activity was evaluated using the Racine scale, cognitive abilities through modified elevated plus maze and anxiety through forced swimming test. Further, the levels of GABA and oxidative stress biomarkers were also evaluated from the rat’s brain homogenate.ResultsPretreatment with BC significantly reduced (p < .05) the seizure score and increased GABA level in BC treated rats when compared to PTZ alone treated rats. The first transfer latency of PTZ alone treated rats was significantly increased (p < .05) relative to the control rats and rats pretreated with diazepam and BC extract. Pretreatment with BC extract at 250 mg/kg was shown to significantly increase (p < .05) the activities of catalase, reduced glutathione, and superoxide dismutase compared to the PTZ alone treated rats.ConclusionsConclusively, BC was found to prevent seizure, avert neurodegeneration, and enhance cognition in PTZ-treated rats by regulating GABA level and enhancing antioxidant activity. Therefore, BC could be explored further for possible development of antiseizure agents.