Ether Fraction Research Articles

Evaluation of the antiulcer activity of ethanolic extract and solvent fractions of Calendula tripterocarpa Rupr. in experimental rats and their DART-ToF-MS profiling

In this study, antiulcer activity of ethanolic extract and solvent fractions of the aerial part of Calendula tripterocarpa was investigated using ethanol-induced model of gastric ulceration in rats. The results showed that ethyl acetate, non-polar components and diethyl ether fractions have a remarkable antiulcerogenic activity; because they exhibited control-ulcer protection by 85.2%, 77.7% and 62.9%, respectively. The acute toxicity study showed that the extract is highly safe; the median lethal dose (LD50) was more than 5000 mg/kg. Moreover, the obtained results were confirmed by the sub-chronic toxicity and showed no alteration in the liver and kidney functions. Our data suggests that C. tripterocarpa possesses significant antiulcer activity and it can be used as a source for an antiulcer drug. Around 100 compounds are elucidated from this plant using direct analysis in real-time of flight-mass spectrometry for the first time, of which four well-known compounds were not isolated or reported previously.

Unveiling phytochemicals and antioxidant, cytotoxic, anti-thrombotic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activities from the leaves of Dalbergia stipulacea (Roxb.)

The study was aimed to conduct phytochemical investigation and assess the in vitro antioxidant, cytotoxic, anti-thrombotic, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of crude methanol extract of Dalbergia stipulacea leaf and its various extractives. All the fractions contain quinines, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, resins, glycosides, and flavonoids, while crude methanol, petroleum ether, and ethyl acetate fractions contain saponins and steroids in qualitative phytochemical analysis. In GC-MS/MS technique, a total of 44 phytoconstituents were identified and characterized, where 3-O-Methyl-D-glucose (22.80 %), 8,11,14-Docosatrienoic acid, methyl ester (19.86 %), pentadecanoic acid, methyl ester (14.17 %), 13-docosenamide (6.62 %), nonadecanoic acid, methyl ester (4.62 %), and phytol (3.04 %) were most prominent. In addition, some promising bioactive constituents, such as pantolactone, aromandendrene, D-allose, loliolide, neophytadiene, dibutyl phthalate, kolavenol, and squalene are present in the leaf of D. stipulacea plant species. Petroleum ether soluble fraction (PESF) of the plant had the highest phenolic content (27.34 mg of GAE/gm) and showed the most effective DPPH free radical scavenger with a half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 3.87 μg/mL. The PESF also exhibited cytotoxicity with median lethal dose (LC50) value of 2.76 μg/mL compared to the standard medication vincristine sulfate (LC50 = 0.45 μg/mL) in brine shrimp lethality bioassay. Compared to streptokinase (63.34 %), aqueous soluble fraction (AQSF) displayed the highest percentage of clot lysis (38.61 %). The PESF exhibited the most significant suppression of heat-induced hemolysis (32.61 %) and hypotonic solution-induced hemolysis (33.86 %), respectively, revealing promising anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, the methanol extract and its fractions exerted promising antibacterial properties with notable zone of inhibition (6–25 mm) compared to ciprofloxacin (17–37 mm). The current evidence supports the traditional medicinal applications of the plant, particularly its ability to act as an antioxidant, cytotoxic, thrombolytic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial agent. However, further phytochemical isolation and in vivo screening is necessary to discover new drugs from the leaf of D. stipulacea plant species based on the current evidence.

Investigations on the Endemic Species Taraxacum mirabile Wagenitz: HPLC-MS and GC-MS Studies, Evaluation of Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antimicrobial Properties, and Isolation of Several Phenolic Compounds.

In this study, the aim was to investigate the chemical content and in vitro antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities of petroleum ether (PE), dichloromethane (DCM), ethyl acetate (EA), and n-butanol (n-BuOH) fractions obtained from ethanol extracts of the aerial parts and roots of the endemic Taraxacum mirabile Wagenitz. This plant is found in the Aksaray-Eskil region and has not been studied in phytochemical studies before. In this context, the chemical content of the aerial parts and root PE fractions was analyzed by GC-MS analysis in terms of terpenes and steroid substances. The composition of phenolic compounds in the aerial parts and root DCM and EA fractions was determined by HPLC-MS analysis. Apigenin, luteolin, and caffeic acid were isolated from the EA fraction of aerial parts. The total amounts of phenolic substances and the DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP antioxidant activities of PE, DCM, EA, and n-BuOH fractions were investigated, and it was found that the fractions had the ability to scavenge DPPH• and ABTS•+ radicals, as well as to reduce Fe (III) to Fe (II); however, all of the fractions were significantly less effective (p < 0.05) than the reference antioxidant quercetin. Considering that antioxidants can also exert an anti-inflammatory effect, these fractions were evaluated for their ability to inhibit cyclooxygenases (COX-1 and COX-2), the key enzymes of arachidonic acid metabolism that lead to the production of important mediators of inflammation. It was observed that fractions had the ability to inhibit both enzymes, suggesting their possible beneficial effects against inflammation. However, no extract had greater inhibitory activity than the positive control, indomethacin. The antimicrobial activity was determined against different bacterial and fungal strains. It was observed that the aerial parts and root n-BuOH and EA fractions showed weak antibacterial effects. No antifungal activity has been detected against Candida sp.

Isolation, characterization, and analysis of pure compounds from Leea macrophylla leaf extract for antibacterial, antidiabetic, cytotoxicity and phytotoxicity

This research aims to isolate, characterize, and analyze pure compounds from Leea macrophylla leaf extract to investigate its antibacterial, antidiabetic, cytotoxic, and phytotoxic effects. Fresh leaves were collected, dried, and subjected to methanol extraction to obtain a crude extract. From the petroleum ether fraction (PEF) of this extract, three fractions—designated LM1, LM2, and LM3—were prepared using column chromatography. The fractions were tried to be characterized in search for single compound by instrumental technique like ATR-FTIR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR but the 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectra were found complex which were difficult to interpret. To dispel the doubt and get clear idea about the structure, GC-MS analysis of the compounds was carried out whose result showed that all the three extracts were decomposed to several small organic compounds that made the structure elucidation difficult. For this complication, the characterization of the extracts was not possible. Numerous compounds were identified in the methanol extract of L.macrophylla through GC-MS analysis. Among these compounds, Benzene, 1,2,3-trimethyl- and Undecane were found in higher percentages in LM1. LM2 contained Azulene and Bicyclo [4.4.1]undeca-1,3,5,7,9-pentaene, while LM3 was characterized by the presence of 9,9-Dimethoxybicyclo [3.3.1]nona-2,4-dione and 11-(2-Cyclopenten-1-yl)undecanoic acid, among others. The antibacterial activity of these fractions was evaluated against various bacterial strains, demonstrating broad-spectrum effectiveness. LM1 fraction showed the highest antibacterial activity against Proteus sp. With zone of inhibition 25 mm and weak activity against S. sonnei with zone of inhibition 5 mm. LM2 showed the highest activity to both E. cocci and P. aeruginosa with the zone of inhibition of 18 mm and comparatively lower but significant against Proteus sp. LM3 was highly active to S. sonnei with zone of inhibition 20 mm and lower but quite significant against Proteus sp. Moreover, the anti-diabetic potential was assessed, with LM1 showing the strongest α-amylase inhibitory activity, outperforming quercetin (standard). The IC50 values of LM1, LM2, LM3, and quercetin were 57.36 μg/mL, 100.66 μg/mL, 164.92 μg/mL, and 97.45 μg/mL, respectively. In addition, cytotoxicity was assessed using a brine shrimp lethality bioassay, and phytotoxicity was evaluated through seed germination and growth assays. The results suggest that L.macrophylla leaf extracts have potential applications in antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and anti-cancer contexts. This comprehensive study bridges gaps in knowledge surrounding L.macrophylla's multifaceted properties, offering insights into its therapeutic and ecological potential for healthcare and environmental management.

Bioactivity-Oriented Separation of "Pepper Alkaloids" from Piper sintenense Hatusima with Potential Antigouty Arthritis Activity.

Piper sintenense Hatusima (PsH) is a member of the Piper genus used as food and folk medicine in China. However, the detailed chemical ingredients and potential pharmacological effects are still underexploited. In this study, we evaluated the anti-inflammatory and antigouty arthritis effect of the ethanolic extract of P. sintenense. Active compounds were isolated from the petroleum ether fraction resulting in six novel amide alkaloids (1-6) and 13 known analogues (7-19). All of the compounds exhibited excellent anti-inflammatory activities. Bioinformatics analysis and in vitro experiments showed that compound 4 had anti-inflammatory properties (IC50 = 4.86 ± 0.32 μM) and antigouty arthritis activity. Mechanistic studies revealed that compound 4 exerted its favorable efficacy by regulating macrophage polarization by inhibiting P-STAT1/4. These findings provide new insights into the chemical composition and function of P. sintenense and expand its promising application as a functional food in the prevention and treatment of gouty arthritis.

Phytochemical Characterization and Synergistic Antibacterial Effects of Colebrookea Oppositifolia Essential Oil as Adjuvants to Modern Antibiotics in Combating Drug Resistance.

The global threat of multi-drug-resistant bacteria has severely limited the options available for effective antibiotics. This study focuses on the antimicrobial activity and phytochemical characterization of C. oppositifolia extracts, aiming to identify novel plant-based therapeutic agents. C. oppositifolia specimens-leaves and inflorescence. Specimens were cleaned, sterilized, dried, and ground into a fine powder. Extracts were obtained using methanol and petroleum ether via a Soxhlet apparatus, followed by fractionation with chloroform, n-butanol, and ethyl acetate. Volatile oil was extracted through hydro distillation using a Clevenger apparatus. Phytochemical analysis was conducted to identify bioactive compounds. Biophysical techniques, including UV-visible spectrophotometry, TLC, HPLC, GC-MS, FTIR, and NMR, were employed for characterization. Antimicrobial activity was tested against S. aureus ATCC25922 and E. coli ATCC25922 using agar well and disc diffusion methods, and synergistic effects were assessed with erythromycin and amoxicillin. Methanol extract exhibited bacteriostatic activity with inhibition zones of 13.0 ± 0.2 mm for both S. aureus and E. coli. Petroleum ether, chloroform, n-butanol, and ethyl acetate fractions showed varying inhibition zones. Erythromycin demonstrated bactericidal activity, which was enhanced synergistically when combined with methanol extract and volatile oil, increasing inhibition zones against S. aureus. Phytochemical analysis identified phenols, flavonoids, tannins, coumarins, alkaloids, terpenoids, saponins, and glycosides. FTIR analysis revealed functional groups such as amines, aldehydes, nitriles, alkenes, and sulfones. GC-MS identified 24 compounds, with α-pinene, caryophyllene, and carene as major components. NMR spectra indicated no complex formation between oils and antibiotics, suggesting the compounds act as synergists. The C. oppositifolia extracts possess significant antimicrobial activity and synergistic potential, particularly against S. aureus. The presence of various bioactive compounds suggests a promising role in developing new plant-based therapeutics.

Chemical constituents from petroleum ether fraction of Artemisia stolonifera

The chemical constituents in the petroleum ether fraction of Artemisia stolonifera were investigated. Twenty compounds(1-20) were isolated from the petroleum ether fraction of A. stolonifera by silica gel, Sephadex LH-20, and ODS chromatography and semi-preparative HPLC. Based on physicochemical properties and spectral data, the structures of these compounds were identified as(7S,9S,10S)-9-hydroxy-7-allyl acetate-1-one(1), 1β,4β,7α-trihydroxy-8,9-eudesmene(2), oplodiol(3), 10α-hydroxycadin-4-en-15-al(4), loliolide(5), vanillin(6), vanillic acid(7), methoxyeugenol(8), ethyl 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzoate(9), ethyl 4-hydroxybenzoate(10),(E)-4-hydroxy-3-methyl-2-butenyl benzoate(11),(3R,6R,7E)-3-hydroxy-4,7-megastigmadien-9-one(12), hydroxydihydrobovolide(5-hydroxy-3,4-dimethy-5-pentyl-2(5H)-furanone(13),(R)-2-ethylhexyl 2H-1,2,3-triazole-4-carboxylate(14), eriodictyol-7,3'-dimethyl ether(15), progesterone(16), spinasterol(17), schottenol(18), α-tocospiro A(19), and 3-[3'-(nona-1″-en-3″,5″,7″-trynyl)oxiran-2'-yl] propan-2-ol(20). Compound 1 was a new sesquiterpenoid, and compounds 2-5 and 7-20 were isolated from this plant for the first time. The antitumor activities of the compounds were studied. The results showed that compounds 16 and 19 displayed cytotoxic activity against MCF-R7 and B16 cells, with the IC_(50) values of(20.94±1.72) and(77.45±0.35) μmol·L~(-1) against MCF-7 cells and(33.89±2.98) and(23.42±0.31) μmol·L~(-1) against B16 cells, respectively. Compounds 11, 15, and 20 had cytotoxic activity against B16 cells, with the IC_(50) values of(88.13±6.38),(68.05±10.28), and(58.89±10.29) μmol·L~(-1), respectively.

UPLC‐MS/MS and chemometrics analyses reveal chemical profile and anti‐inflammatory activity of Bienertia cycloptera Bunge fractions

AbstractIntroductionBienertia cycloptera is a species belonging to the Chenopodiaceae family. According to earlier reports, a unique research study on the phytochemistry and biological analysis of that species was conducted.ObjectiveThis study presents an integrated metabolomics investigation combined with multivariate analysis of various extractive fractions of B. cycloptera aerial parts. This study is the first attempt to explore the anti‐inflammatory metabolites from B. cycloptera, showing its significance as a valuable traditional medicine.MethodologyBy comparing retention times, quasi‐molecular ions, and MS/MS fragment ions with databases and literature references, metabolite annotation was accomplished using ultra performance liquid chromatography (UPLC)/triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (MS). Moreover, the effects of the studied samples on the gene expression of the four pro‐inflammatory cytokines (IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α, and INF‐γ) using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and comparing their results by those caused by piroxicam were tested to determine their anti‐inflammatory efficacy.ResultsChemical profiling revealed diverse metabolites, with 62 chromatographic peaks identified across various chemical classes. UPLC‐MS/MS of different B. cycloptera fractions unveiled distinct chemical profiles. Results showed distinct chemical compositions in each fraction, with petroleum ether fraction enriched in sterols and fatty acids; methylene chloride fraction in alkaloids, sterols, and cardenolides; ethyl acetate fraction in alkaloids, flavonoids, cardenolides, and phenolic acids; and n‐butanol fraction in flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic acids. Multivariate data analysis illustrated clustering patterns among petroleum ether, methylene chloride, ethyl acetate, and n‐butanol fractions. OPLS‐DA models were constructed to discern inter‐class differences, identifying discriminatory metabolites. In vitro cytotoxicity and anti‐inflammatory assays demonstrated the safety and efficacy of B. cycloptera fractions, with significant downregulation of pro‐inflammatory markers. Further analysis revealed specific metabolites associated with anti‐inflammatory effects, such as p‐hydroxybenzoic acid, vanillic acid, tachioside, ferulic acid, staphylionoside D, humilixanthin, bergaptol, vulgaxanthin I, and portulacaxanthin III.ConclusionThe findings of this study provide valuable insights into the chemical composition and bioactivity of B. cycloptera fractions, suggesting their potential as therapeutic agents and warranting further investigation.

IN VITRO ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITIES OF VARIOUS SOLVENT EXTRACTS DERIVED FROM VIOLA ODORATA

The primary objective of this study was to assess the antimicrobial activities of various polar and nonpolar solvent extracts derived from the leaves of Viola odorata. The disc diffusion method was employed to test the antimicrobial susceptibility against a diverse range of pathogenic microorganisms, including Escherichia coli, Erwinia carotovora, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus and the fungus Candida albicans. The results indicated that isobutanol and ethyl acetate fractions exhibited significantly higher antimicrobial activity compared to petroleum ether, crude, chloroform and aqueous fractions. Among the tested bacteria, E. carotovora was the most susceptible bacterium to all the extracts of V. odorata, whereas S. typhi demonstrated the highest resistance. The isobutanol extract inhibited the proliferation of E. carotovora by 62 % at a concentration of 2 mg disc-1, while the ethyl acetate extract achieved 53% inhibition under the same conditions. Additionally, our findings revealed that the overall antimicrobial activity of V. odorata leaves was consistently effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains.

Isolation and chemical characterization of secondary metabolites from Gazania rigens and their antimicrobial and cytotoxic activities

Phytochemical study of Gazania rigens whole plant led to isolation and structural characterisation of six known compounds including lupeol (1), lupenone (2), β-sitosterol 3-O-β-glucopyranoside (3), dunalianoside D (4), 3,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid (5), and tachioside (6). Compounds (1–4, and 6) were isolated for the first time. The structures of the isolated compounds were elucidated using different spectroscopic analyses such as 1H,13C, and DEPT NMR analyses, besides HR-ESI-MS analysis. The isolated compounds and fractions were screened for in vitro antimicrobial activity against various bacterial and fungal strains. Only lupeol (1) exhibited a moderate antibacterial activity against K. pneumoniae with IC50 value of 19.05 µg/mL. The cytotoxic potential of the total ethanol extract and its derived fractions of G. rigens was evaluated against the MDA-MB-468 TNBC cell line using MTT assay. The petroleum ether, EtOAc and n-BuOH fractions exhibited a moderate inhibitory action with IC50 values of 22.42 ± 0.63, 25.55 ± 1.53, and 28.07 ± 0.63, respectively.

Therapeutic Potential of &lt;i&gt;Curcuma longa&lt;/i&gt; Rhizome Solvent Fractions Against Benz[a]Anthracene-induced Pulmonary Toxicity: &lt;i&gt;In vivo&lt;/i&gt; Insights

Benz[a]anthracene, a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon found in environmental pollutants, poses significant health risks, particularly to the respiratory system. This study aimed to evaluate the potential therapeutic effects of different solvent fractions of Curcuma longa rhizome methanol extracts against benz[a]anthracene-induced pulmonary toxicity using an in vivo rat model. The methanol crude extract of C. longa was partially fractionated using partition chromatography with silica gel as the adsorbent. Four solvent fractions obtained using gradient elution (designated ethanol, ethyl acetate, diethyl ether, and n-hexane fractions) were collected and used in the experiment. Albino Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) were randomly divided into seven groups and administered benz[a]anthracene to induce pulmonary toxicity. Subsequently, rats were treated with different solvent fractions of C. longa or diclofenac sodium as a positive control. Body weights were measured weekly, pre-induction, post-induction and post-treatment blood samples were collected, and lung tissue samples were collected and analysed. Treatment with the ethyl acetate fraction of C. longa resulted in significant improvements in lung histopathology compared to benz[a]anthracene-treated rats alone, suggesting potential anti-inflammatory effects. Furthermore, this fraction showed significant antioxidant enzyme activities, including glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, and superoxide dismutase, indicating its ability to mitigate oxidative stress. Biochemical analysis revealed that the ethyl acetate fraction also significantly decreased serum levels of tumour biomarkers, such as epidermal growth factor receptor, cancer antigen 125, and carcinoembryonic antigen, suggesting its potential in inhibiting cancer-related processes induced by benz[a]anthracene exposure. Our findings suggest that the ethyl acetate fraction of C. longa rhizome may hold promise as a therapeutic agent against benz[a]anthracene-induced pulmonary toxicity, possibly through its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific compounds present in this fraction and the underlying mechanisms through which they exert their effects, to optimize their therapeutic potential.

Phytochemical Identification and Assessment of Amberboa ramosa Mediated Inhibition of Microtubule and EGFR Associated Growth and Metastasis of Breast Cancer Cells: In Vitro and In Silico Perspective

Amberboa ramosa Roxb. (Asteraceae), commonly known as “Badaward”, has been used for the treatment of tumors from ancient times. In this study, we aimed to scientifically authenticate the use of A. ramosa for breast cancer treatment. The whole plant fractions of A. ramosa were evaluated for their cytotoxic properties against MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines. Among these fractions, Pet. ether, ethyl acetate, and ethanolic fractions exhibited considerable levels of cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-231 cells with [Formula: see text] values of 78.55, 90.60, and 92.92 [Formula: see text]g/mL, respectively. The cell migration significantly decreased in ethyl acetate and ethanolic fractions. GC–MS was used to analyze the phytochemical profile of bioactive fractions, which revealed the presence of long-chain hydrocarbons, carboxylic acids, esters, alcohols, and terpenoids. Subsequently, the 96 compounds present in bioactive fractions were efficiently docked with EGFR and microtubule protein to evaluate affinity towards the targets. Eight common compounds were achieved using a docking-based approach against both target proteins, which showed similar interaction patterns as the reference inhibitors (colchicine and erlotinib). The key interactions revealed the potential of screened compounds as promising hits. 2-[1,2-Dihydroxyethyl]-9-[[Formula: see text]-d-ribofuranosyl]hypoxanthine showed the best dock score of −9.337 and −8.548 kcal/mol against EGFR and microtubule, respectively. 5-Oxo-cystofuranoquinol exhibited better dock score as well as binding energy against both targets. Chemical features present in the 08 dual inhibitors were also matched from the present EGFR and microtubule inhibitors for comparing the anticancer potential. Thus, this research revealed many new directions for developing natural lead compounds from Amberboa ramosa as dual inhibitors for treating breast cancer.

Isolation of a new iso-quinoline alkaloid and cytotoxicity studies of pure compounds and crude extracts of Ravenia spectabilis engl

A new 2-quinolone alkaloid, iso-oligophyline (1), and two very unusual C34 terpenoids, proposed names ravespanol (2) and ravespanone (3), along with two known compounds, β-sitosterol (4), and methyl linoleate (5), were isolated from the leaf extract of Ravenia spectabilis engl. Methyl linoleate constitutes the first report of isolation from this species. We have already reported the isolation of atanine (6), oligophyline (7), ravenoline (8), and arborinine (9) from the plant. Based on nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and mass spectrometric analysis, the structure of the isolated chemicals was determined. The crude fractions and four compounds (6,7,8 and 9) were evaluated for a cytotoxicity study on a panel of six human stomach cancer cell lines (SCL, SCL-6, SCL-37′6, SCL-9, K-3, N21) by MTT assay. Among the plant extracts and isolated compounds, petroleum ether fraction and compound 7 exhibited the highest cytotoxic activity against SCL and SCL-6 cells, where the IC50 values were 17.9 and 16.56 μM, respectively.

Anthelmintic and analgesic activities of different solvent fractions of crude methanolic extract of Baccaurea ramiflora (Lour.) fruit peels and seeds with molecular docking analysis

Introduction: Baccaurea ramiflora Lour, locally known as Latkan, is a popular fruit in Bangladesh used for its anthelmintic and analgesic activities. This study aimed to compare the anthelmintic and analgesic activities of different solvent fractions of crude extract from B. ramiflora fruit seed and peel. Methods: Cold extraction followed by the Kupchan scheme was employed to obtain various solvent fractions. In vivo anthelmintic activity was assessed using Pheretima posthuman, while analgesic activity was evaluated via writhing and tail immersion tests on Swiss albino mice. Molecular docking studies of four reported phytochemicals from B. ramiflora on analgesic and anti-parasitic protein targets were conducted using the PyRx. Results: Results revealed significant anthelmintic activity in seed petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and acetone solvent fractions in a dose-dependent manner, with acetone extract exhibiting the highest activity. Writhing was significantly reduced in all seed and peel extracts, with the highest inhibition observed at 200 mg/kg dose. Moreover, seed chloroform and peel ethyl acetate extracts displayed the longest pain reaction times in the tail immersion model (6.924 ± 0.264 seconds and 6.562 ± 0.157 seconds, respectively). Molecular docking revealed strong binding interactions of Baccariminose C and D (≥8.2 kcal/mol) with all studied protein targets. Conclusion: This study confirms the anthelmintic and analgesic activities of B. ramiflora fruit peel and seed extracts. These results contribute to the understanding of the medicinal properties of B. ramiflora and its potential applications in pharmaceuticals.

Network pharmacology, molecular docking study, and in vivo validation of the wound healing activity of the Red Sea soft coral Paralemnalia thyrsoides (Ehrenberg 1834) ethanolic extract and bioactive metabolites

BackgroundWounds are a major health issue on a global scale, putting a great deal of financial, commercial, and social strain on healthcare organizations, patients, and individuals. So, this study aims to investigate the in vitro antioxidant activity of Paralemnalia thyrsoides soft coral total ethanolic extract. Also, bio-guided in vivo wound healing validation enhanced by the evaluation of related gene expression of Paralemnalia thyrsoides total extract, derived fractions, and three known metabolites was done. Furthermore, utilizing network pharmacology, we identified ten hub target genes associated with wound healing, including AKT1(RAC-alpha serine/threonine–protein kinase), IL6 (interleukin-6), MAPK3 (mitogen-activated protein kinase 3), MMP9 (matrix metalloproteinase 9), and APP (amyloid P protein precursor). We conducted molecular docking to assess how the three compounds interact with these hub genes and inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β (interleukin-1 beta), TGF-β (transforming growth factor-beta), TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor-alpha), and NF-KB (nuclear factor-kappa B) linked to wound healing.ResultsIn vitro antioxidant activity of the total ethanolic extract of Paralemnalia thyrsoides revealed potent scavenging activity against H2O2 with IC50 of 178.62 μg/mL. Additionally, the bio-guided scheme of the in vivo wound healing assay leads to the most active fraction, petroleum ether, with a healing percentage of 85% ± 4. Several chromatographic procedures upon petroleum ether fraction led to the isolation of three known compounds with significant in vivo wound healing potential which are recognized as triacontan-1-ol (1), 24-methylcholesterol (2) 6α-acetyl-7α-acetate-1(10)-α-13-nornardosine [C16H24O4] (3). Noteworthy downregulation in Cox-2 (Cyclooxygenase-2), Cox-1 (Cyclooxygenase-1), IL-1β, TGF-β, TNF-α, NF-KB, and INF-ϒ (interferon-ϒ) relative genes expression and upregulation in TGF-β, and IL-10 (interleukin-10) relative genes expression proved that compounds (3), (2), and (1) were, respectively, significant. The in silico study suggests that both C16H24O4 and 24-methyl cholesterol have potential in wound healing, possibly involving the regulation of RAC-alpha serine/threonine-protein kinase (AKT1).ConclusionOur study highlights the antioxidant and wound-healing potential of Paralemnalia thyrsoides soft coral that can be attributed to its diverse chemical metabolites. The in vivo and in silico findings highlighted that P. thyrsoides can be an effective remedy for wound restoration with the need for extensive future detailed clinical studies to prove these results.

Evaluation of the merit of ethanolic extract of Annona reticulata as an anti-cancer agent in human colon cancer cell lines (HCT-116)

Background Colon cancer is the third most common cancer type worldwide. Novel alternative therapeutic anti-cancer drugs against colon cancer with less toxicity are to be explored . This study was aimed to explore the anti-proliferative and anti-migratory activity of various fractions of Annona reticulata ethanolic leaf extract on human colon cancer cell lines (HCT-116) and to explore the potential molecular targets from the most potent plant extract fraction. Methods After obtaining ethical clearance from the institutional ethics committee, the extract and fractions were prepared and a preliminary analysis of the phytochemical was done qualitatively. Total phenolic and flavonoids were determined. Ethanolic leaf extract and its fractions were subjected to cytotoxicity analysis using the sulforhodamine B assay and the most promising fraction which showed the highest viability was selected to study anti-migratory activity. The anti-migratory effect was studied using a scratch wound healing assay. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was done to identify the major phytocompounds present in the fraction. The major five phytocompounds identified from the GC-MS were subjected to bioinformatics analysis. Result Among the four fractions, the petroleum ether fraction exhibited the highest anti-proliferative activity. The migration of colon cancer cells was significantly inhibited by the extract and petroleum ether fraction. The major phytocompounds identified from GC-MS were phytol (13.03%), 2,6-bis (3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl)-3,7-dioxabicyclo (3.3.0) octane (11.95%), gamma.-sitosterol (10.45%), alpha.-tocopherol-beta.-D-mannoside (7.50%) and 3-amino-4-piperonyl-5-pyrazolone (5.84%). The bioinformatics analysis of these phytochemicals showed a high potential to affect the levels of key proteins driving colon cancer progression, inhibiting the enzymes and proteins overexpressed in cancer. Conclusion The outcome of this study endorses the potential of phytochemicals of the petroleum ether fraction of ethanolic leaf extract of Annona reticulata for the development of a new chemotherapeutic agent in the treatment of colon cancer.

Investigating the Effects of Dorema hyrcanum Root Extracts on Selective Induction of Programmed Cell Death in Glioblastoma, Ovarian Cancer and Breast Cancer Cell Lines.

Despite remarkable advances, cancer has remained the second cause of death, which shows that more potent novel compounds should be found. Ethnobotanical compounds have a long history of treating diseases, and several approved chemotherapeutic compounds were isolated from plants. The research aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of Dorema hyrcanum root extract on ovarian, breast, and glioblastoma cells while examining its selectivity towards normal cells. Additionally, the study is directed to investigate cell death mechanisms, delineate modes of cell death, and explore intracellular ROS production. Cytotoxic effects of alcoholic, dichloromethane, and petroleum ether fractions of Dorema hyrcanum were investigated on cancer and normal cells by using MTT assay, and the concentration around IC50 values was used for flow cytometric assessment of apoptosis, evaluation of the expression of selected genes via RT-qPCR and production of ROS. Methanolic extract exhibited the highest cytotoxicity, impacting A2780CP and MDA-MB-231. All fractions showed comparable effects on U251 cells. Notably, extracts displayed higher IC50 values in normal HDF cells, indicating cancer cell specificity. Flow cytometry revealed induction of apoptosis and non-apoptotic death in all three cancer cell lines. QPCR results showed upregulation of related genes, with RIP3K prominently increased in U251 glioblastoma. The DCFH-DA assay demonstrated ROS induction by the PE fraction exclusively in A2780CP cells after 30 minutes and up to 24 hours. Dorema hyrcanum root extracts exhibited potent anti-tumor effects against all studied cell lines. The methanolic extract demonstrated the highest cytotoxicity, particularly against A2780CP and MDA-MB-231 cells. Importantly, all fractions displayed selectivity for cancer cells over normal HDF cells. Unique modes of action were observed, with the petroleum ether fraction inducing significant non-apoptotic cell death. These findings suggest promising therapeutic potential for Dorema hyrcanum in cancer treatment with subject to further mechanistic studies.

Germacrone, isolated from Curcuma wenyujin, inhibits melanin synthesis through the regulation of the MAPK signaling pathway.

Abnormal melanin synthesis causes hyperpigmentation disorders, such as chloasma, freckles, and melanoma, which are highly multiple and prevalent. There were few reports on the anti-melanogenic effect of Curcuma wenyujin Y.H. Chen et C. Ling, and the bioactive compound has not been elucidated as well. The study aims to investigate the anti-melanogenic effect of C. wenyujin, and identify the bioactive compound, and further explore its underlying mechanism. Our results showed that the Petroleum ether fraction extracted from C. wenyujin rhizome had a significant anti-melanogenic effect, and germacrone isolated from it was confirmed as the major bioactive compound. To our data, germacrone significantly inhibited tyrosinase (TYR) activity, reduced melanosome synthesis, reduced dendrites formation of B16F10 cells, and melanosome transport to keratinocytes. Moreover, germacrone effectively decreased the hyperpigmentation in zebrafish and the skin of guinea pigs in vivo. Western-blot analysis showed that germacrone down-regulated the expression of TYR, TRP-1, TRP-2, Rab27a, Cdc42, and MITF proteins via the activation of the MAPK signaling pathway. Taken together, germacrone is an effective bioactive compound for melanogenesis inhibition. Our studies suggest that germacrone may be considered a potential candidate for skin whitening.

A new lignan from Laggera crispata (Vahl) Hepper & J. R. I. Wood

A new lignan, 9′-O-angelyllariciresinol (1), and 20 known compounds (2–21) were isolated from the petroleum ether fraction of Laggera crispata (Vahl) Hepper & J. R. I. Wood. Their structures were identified by spectral analysis (NMR, IR, UV, and MS). Activity screening showed that compound 5 exhibited significant inhibitory effect on Staphylococcus aureus, while compound 2 exhibited significant inhibitory effect against liver cancer cell line HepG2.

Cymbopogon proximus phytochemicals induce S-phase arrest in A549 lung cancer cell lines via CDK2/cyclin A2 inhibition: gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and molecular docking analyses.

Cymbopogon proximus comprises several phytoconstituent classes that are reported to possess anticancer activity; however, studies on the anticancer potentials of theplant are lacking. C.proximus was extracted using solvents with increasing polarity. In-vitro cytotoxic activity of C.proximus extracts was examined against liver (HepG2), lung (A549), prostate (PC3), and bone (MG63) cell lines using MTT assay in comparison to doxorubicin. Flow cytometry was used to analyze the cell cycle for identification of the phase of inhibition. Chemical composition of the most active fraction was examined using the GC/MS technique. Molecular docking was used to explore the mechanism of cytotoxicity against A549, and the results were confirmed by Western blot analysis. Petroleum ether fraction was the highly effective fraction against A549 with IC50=14.02±2.79. GC/MS analysis of Pet.Eth led to the identification of nine compounds in unsaponifiable matter and 27 components in the saponifiable fraction. Di-N-octyl phthalate, 3-β-hydroxylean-11.13(18)-dien-30-oic acid methyl ester, elemol hydrocarbons, linoelaidic acid and linoleic acid demonstrated the lowest docking binding scores and similar binding modes against CDK2 as compared to that attained by the native ligand R-Roscovitine "CDK2 ATP inhibitor". Western blot analysis demonstrated that CDK2/cyclinA2 protein expression has been suppressed in A549 cell lines by Pet.Eth fraction.