Aqueous Fruit Extract Research Articles

ETHNO MEDICINAL SURVEY AND HEAVY METAL ANALYSIS ON MUD DAUBER NEST IN ZARIA, KADUNA STATE NIGERIA.

The emergence of pathogenic bacteria that are resistant to several antibiotics has recently presented a significant challenge to the healthcare system. Therefore, an alternative source of antimicrobial agents is needed. The study aimed to compare the antibacterial activities of aqueous and ethanol extracts of ripe and unripe fruits of red and yellow varieties of Anacardium occidentale against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Cold maceration method of extraction was used using water and ethanol. Antibacterial activities of the extracts against the isolates were evaluated by agar diffusion method while minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using broth dilution method. In the determination of the antibacterial activities of all the extracts, the highest zones of inhibition were shown by ethanolic extracts of both ripe red cashew (25 mm) and yellow cashew (26 mm) against Escherichia coli. Both the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of unripe red and yellow cashew had no antibacterial effect against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. As well, both aqueous and ethanol extracts of ripe red and yellow cashew and ethanolic extract of ripe yellow cashew inhibited all the test organisms. Minimum inhibitory concentration ranged from 50 to 150 mg/ml. At 100 mg/ml, both ethanolic extracts of ripe red and yellow cashew were bactericidal to Escherichia coli while aqueous extract of ripe red cashew was bactericidal to Escherichia coli at 150 mg/ml. The antibacterial activities of A. occidentale apple (fruit) extracts underscore the credence to the efficacy of their use as traditional remedy against some human ailments.

Green Synthesis of TiO2 Nanoparticles using Averrhoa Bilimbi Fruit Extract and their Applications in Photocatalytic Dye Degradation and Anti-bacterial Activities

Due to their numerous distinctive characteristics, nanostructured materials are currently a crucial topic of research. One of the most promising materials today are TiO2 nanostructures, which are one among the transition metal oxides. Due to the absence of any potentially dangerous ingredients and commercially viable procedure, green approaches of nanoparticle synthesis have significant benefit over traditional approaches. The present work reported, the photocatalytic as well as anti-bacterial activity of green synthesized titanium dioxide (TiO2-NPs). An aqueous fruit extract of Averrhoa bilimbi as a capping as well as reducing agent, is utilized for the synthesis of TiO2-NPs. The prepared TiO2-NPs have been characterized by spectral methods using powder XRD (X-ray diffraction) and FTIR (Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy). Morphological characterization by SEM analysis showed that the synthesized was spherical structure with an average particle size of 60 nm. The photocatalytic dye degradation and anti-bacterial activity have been performed and the result revealed the impressive capability of TiO2-NPs. Hence, the current research work offers a futuristic outlook on a green photocatalysts for profound applications.

Glyceamic Modulatory Effects of a Recipe from Some Commonly Consumed Fruit Pulps in Normal and Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats

Plants continue to play an important role in the treatment and management of many diseases, including diabetes mellitus, in many developing economies. Most often, a cocktail of plant mixtures is normally used in traditional practice rather than single plant, which are believed to offer more benefits. Adansonia digitata, Hyphaene thebaica, Ziziphus spina-christi, and Ziziphus mauritiana are some of those plants that are reported to have medicinal benefits and, most importantly, anti-diabetic activity. This study evaluated the hypoglyceamic and antidiabetic activity of the aqueous extracts of the fruit pulps and a recipe combining all the fruits in experimental rats. Aqueous extracts of the different fruits and the recipe were orally administered to normoglyceamic and Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats, and their blood glucose was monitored over a period of 3 hours in the screening study. Two different doses of the recipe were also administered daily for four (4) weeks to STZ-diabetic rats to study the antidiabetic potential of the recipe. All the extracts did not significantly reduce the fasting blood glucose (FBG) of the normoglyceamic rats in the hypoglyceamic screening study. In the antidiabetic screening study, all the extracts lowered the FBG of their respective groups with percent reductions of 32%, 21%, 17%, and 46%, respectively, for Z. spina-christi, Z. mauritiana, A. digitata and H. thebaica extractives. The maximum percent reduction observed for the recipe was 25.5%. The daily administration of the recipe for four weeks also produced significant reductions that were not dose dependent. The 200 mg/kg bd. wt. dose showed a maximum reduction of 59.9%. The percentage reductions observed in the recipe-treated group were, however, lower than the percentage reductions seen in the insulin and glibenclamide-treated groups. The study confirms the antidiabetic properties of the individual fruits and the recipe, and thus confirms the traditional use of the fruits in the management of diabetes mellitus.

Mollification of Lead Induced Liver Injury by Lycopersicon esculentum (Tomato) Extract

Objective: Lead is a highly toxic, non-biodegradable heavy metal usually found in the environment largely as a pollutant of water, soil or air. Chronic lead exposure has adverse effects on human health. Lycopersicon esculentum has many phytochemicals that may ameliorate organ injury due to lead toxicity in humans. This study answered the question “Is aqueous extract of Lycopersicon esculentum (tomato) beneficent to lead toxicity induced liver injury?”
 Methodology: The study had five groups with fifteen animals each. The control was group CN. The lead toxicity group (PbT) had 30 mg/kg/day of lead acetate crystals, the concomitant extract group (CE) had concurrent administration of lead acetate and aqueous extract of L. esculentum (at 400 mg/kg). The post lead toxicity low dose extract. (PLE) had sequential administration of lead acetate and aq. extract L. esculentum (at 400 mg/kg). The post lead toxicity high dose extract. (PHE) had sequential administration of lead acetate and aq. extract L. esculentum (at 800 mg/kg). Both the lead acetate and extract were administered orally for twenty one days. At specific periods, blood samples were collected for biochemical analyses and organs harvested for histopathological evaluation.
 Result: The total plasma protein levels of the extract groups (CE, PLE and PHE) were significantly higher than that of the PbT group. The PbT group had markedly elevated plasma liver enzymes. Oxidative stress was only evident in the PbT group but not in the extract groups as suggested by the significantly depressed anti-oxidant activities and elevated lipid peroxidation. A cystic lesion was observed in one of the liver specimens from the PbT group. Histopathological findings included fatty infiltration of the liver in the PbT group and presence of multinucleated hepatocytes in the extract groups. The latter feature suggested the ability of aqueous extract of L. esculentum to ameliorate the lead (Pb) toxicity induced liver damage.
 Conclusion: Concurrent and post-exposure administration of aqueous extract of tomato fruit (L. esculentum) mollified the liver injury caused by lead toxicity.

The Effect of Prolonged Consumption of Aqueous Extract of Raphia Hookeri Pulp Fruit on Selected Immune Parameters on Male Wistar Rats

This research aims to ascertain the effect of oral administration of a aqueous fruit extract of Raphia Hookeri on selected immune parameters in male wistar rats. The fruits were obtained from Emoh community in Abua/Odual L.GA, Rivers State, A total of 28 apparently healthy male rats weighing between 137-190g were divided into four groups, 7 rats in each group. Group 1 served as the control were given feed and water, group 2 given 500mg/kg, group 3 given 1000mg/kg, group 4 given 2000mg/kg of the extract for 28 days and blood samples collected. Laboratory test done and statistical analysisexpressed as mean± SEM using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS version 24).The result for IgA when compared the treated groups and control, there was slight variation in values but the result is not significant at P<0.05, there were marginal variation in IgE, when compared the treated groups with the control, the result showed no significant difference, there was a significant decrease in group 2 for IgM, also a slight variation in group 3 and 4 when compared with the control not statistically significant at P<0.05.Very plausible to state that there is no proportional effect of the aqueous extract on Immunoglobulin A (IgA), Immunoglobulin E (IgE). There was a significant decrease in Immunoglobulin in (IgM) level noticed in group2 and no significant difference in groups 3 and 4.The findings of the study has proven that prolonged consumption of Raphia Hookeri fruit extract boost immunity via immunoglobulins in male wistar rats.

Quality control, phytochemical profile, and biological activities of Crataegus monogyna Jacq. and Crataegus laciniata Ucria fruits aqueous extracts

The current study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition, quality control, and antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, antihyperglycemic activities, and toxicity assessment of Crataegus monogyna Jacq (C. monogyna) and Crataegus laciniata Ucria (C. laciniata) fruits aqueous extracts. The quality control of the plant material revealed that it is free of heavy metals and the acidity and ash parameters comply with international standards. HPLC-DAD analysis revealed the presence of eight phenolic compounds in the C. monogyna extract and nine compounds in the C. laciniata extract, with coumaric acid present only in the C. laciniata extract. According to the findings, both extracts are high in total polyphenols, total flavonoids, and condensed tannins. The results of the antioxidant activity revealed that our extracts have significant effects against 2, 2-diphényl 1-picrylhydrazyle (DPPH), and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP). The antibacterial test revealed that the two extracts tested were effective against four bacterial strains, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae, and Shigella dysenteria, but were ineffective against Salmonella typhi, and Acinetobacter baumanii. In addition, extracts from both plants showed remarkable antihyperglycemic activity with no acute toxicity. In conclusion, the extracts studied could be a good source of bioactive molecules with antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-diabetic activity for pharmaceutical applications.

INFLUENCE OF Momordica charantia (L.) ON THE PHARMACOKINETICS AND PHARMACODYNAMICS OF GLICLAZIDE IN ALLOXAN-INDUCED DIABETIC RATS

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder present in the top ten diseases that cause death. Diabetes treatment usually uses conventional drugs, such as gliclazide, which is the first choice in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who are intolerant to metformin. In addition to conventional medicine, herbal medicines are in great demand and have become a focus of research to obtain an alternative treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus. One herb that has been widely used and studied is the bitter melon. This study aimed to determine the effects of bitter melon extract (BME) on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of gliclazide when used simultaneously. The study was conducted on three groups of rats with alloxan-induced diabetes. Group 1 received a single dose of gliclazide (33 mg/kg BW, n = 3), group 2 received aqueous extracts of bitter melon fruit (341 mg/kg BW, n = 4), and group 3 received a combination of gliclazide and an aqueous extract of bitter melon (n = 4). The pharmacokinetic profile of gliclazide is affected by BME, where interactions occur during the absorption phase. The blood glucose levels were measured using a glucometer. Decreased blood glucose levels following administration of gliclazide, extract of bitter melon, and a combination of gliclazide and extract of bitter melon 6 hours after dosing were 74.73%, 82.977%, and 86.457%, respectively. This study demonstrated the interactions between gliclazide and BME in the absorption phase of gliclazide and its effect on blood glucose levels.

Evaluating biological ethnopharmaceutical activities of fruit and root extracts of Solanum incanum L.

Solanum incanum L. is a plant that belongs to the Solanaceae family, growing in tropical climates all over the world. Despite the extensive use of the root and fruit sap extract of S. incanum in the agricultural and ethnopharmaceutical industries in Africa, there is minimal scientific documentation regarding its pesticide bioactive phytochemicals and efficacy. The study investigated the photochemical content (phenolics, flavonoids, saponins, terpenoids and alkaloids) of the methanol, ethyl acetate and hexane crude extracts of the root and fruit of S. incanum. The potential radical scavenging, (antioxidant), cytotoxicity, and efficacy activities of all crude extracts were examined using the 1, 1-diphenyl-2picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), propidium iodide (PI) and aphid leaf dip (ALD) assays respectively. The total phenolic, alkaloid, flavonoid, terpenoid and saponin content were highest in the methanol fruit (MFE), (3.49 ± 1.16 mg GAE/100 mg), steroidal fruit (SAE), (0.14±0.06 mg ATP/100 mg, hexane fruit (HFE), 3.62±1.23 mg QCT/100 mg, hexane root (Hroot), (1.19±0.47 mg LIN/100 mg and saponin (3.74±1.17 mg/100 mg). The aqueous extract of the ethyl acetate fruit had the highest antioxidant activity with an IC50 of 35.53±0.53 μg·mL-1 (p < 0.05) The methanol fruit and steroidal alkaloid extracts exhibited potent cytotoxicity against Vero cells demonstrating the highest cell mortality rate of 98% and 70% respectively at 100 μg·mL-1. Melphalan which was used as a positive control had a mortality rate of 75% cell at 100 μg/mL concentration. The methanol fruit extract exhibited the highest efficacy against the cabbage aphids with an LD50 of 13.16±3.78 μg·mL-1 (p < 0.05). The results indicated that the fruit and root of S. incanum have a variety of phytochemicals that may be considered for use as antioxidants and/or pesticides. By exhibiting the most potent cytotoxic activity against Vero cells, S. incanum roots have the greatest potential for the discovery of cytotoxic compounds necessary to develop anticancer drugs. The extracts with high potent efficacy against cabbage aphids need to be investigated further as pesticides to benefit the disadvantaged communities in the Southern African region. Key words: Antioxidant, cytotoxicity, lethal dose, mortality rate, phytochemicals, quantitative analysis

Fruit Extract of Oil Palm (<i>Elaeis Guineensis</i> (Jacq.)) Inhibits Uterine Contractility in <i>Ex-Vivo</i> Mouse Models

Background: Different parts of Elaeis guineensis (EG) plants are used ethno-medicinally for treating numerous illnesses including abdominal contraction.
 Objectives: Thus, this study evaluated the inhibitory potential of the fruit-extract of EG on the uterine contractility in ex-vivo mouse models.
 Material and Methods: The effect of EG extract on spontaneous uterine contractions, oxytocin (OT)-induced uterine contractions, high potassium chloride induced uterine contractions and oxytocin-induced calcium free contraction were evaluated in adult non-pregnant female albino mice.
 Results: EG in a concentration dependent mode diminished spontaneous uterine contractions, while amplitude and frequency of contractions were inhibited significantly, but the frequency of contraction was at the highest concentration of EG. EG also produced a significant inhibition of the frequency of OT-induced contraction in calciumfree media.
 Conclusion: The aqueous fruit extracts of EG inhibited uterine contraction in the uterus through inhibition of intracellular calcium stores.

Comparative anticancer effects of Annona muricata Linn (Annonaceae) leaves and fruits on DMBA-induced breast cancer in female rats

BackgroundNumerous studies have reported the anti-cancer effects of different parts of Annona muricata Linn, however ; most of them focused on the in vitro evaluation of isolates. In vivo evidence on which part is best suited for breast cancer chemoprevention remains to be demonstrated. This is a comparative study of the effects of A. muricata fruit and leaves extracts on DMBA induced-breast cancer in rats.MethodsRats exposed to DMBA (50 mg/kg, s.c.), were treated with A. muricata fruit aqueous extract at 200 mg/kg BW (3 days/week or daily) and A. muricata Linn leaves ethanolic extract at 200 mg/kg daily. Positive control group received tamoxifen at 3.3 mg/kg, while the normal and diseased controls received vehicle. After 20 weeks of treatment, the tumor incidence, tumor burden, tumor volume, histopathology, protein and CA 15 − 3 levels as well as antioxidant status, pro-inflammatory cytokines were assessed.ResultsThus, 100% of diseased rats presented cribriform ductal carcinoma of SBR grade III. A. muricata extracts (leaves and fruit) and tamoxifen significantly reduced death and tumor incidences, volume and weight of the tumors, total protein and CA15-3 levels compared to the DMBA group. They exhibited antioxidant activity, through an increase in the GSH level and SOD and catalase activities with reduced levels of MDA compared to DMBA group. TNF-α, IL-6 and INF-γ levels reduced with regards to A. muricata treatment.ConclusionThese results confirm the anti-breast cancer effect of A. muricata, however, the aqueous fruit extract was more potent than the ethanolic leaves extract.

Novel Nanoaggregates from Phoenix dactylifera (date palm) for Inhalational Management of Cystic Fibrosis Using Dry Powder Inhalers

PurposePhoenixdactylifera extracts have shown efficacy as antioxidants and antibacterials for the treatment of lung diseases; however, the choice of route of administration remains a problem. The use of natural antibacterial remedies for the management of cystic fibrosis (CF) is promising due to recurring bacterial resistance to current antibiotics. Dry powder inhalers (DPIs) have also been identified as a patient-friendly, noninvasive method for local delivery of drugs to the lungs. Therefore, this work, which is the first of its kind, aimed to formulate nanoparticles of date palm extracts as DPIs and evaluate their aerodynamic and antibacterial biofilm characteristics for the potential treatment of CF.MethodChitosan-based nanoparticles (CDN) comprising aqueous date fruit extract with increasing concentrations of chitosan (0.05, 0.1, and 0.2% w/v) were prepared. The in vitro aerosolization of the formulations was studied using a next-generation impactor (NGI), and good aerosolization profiles were achieved. The produced nanoparticles were characterized using FTIR and XRD to confirm physical properties and TEM and zeta sizer to confirm shape and size. The antimicrobial activity of CDN was evaluated using a Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm model cultured in an artificial sputum medium (ASM) mimicking cystic fibrosis conditions in the lungs.ResultsNanoparticles containing 0.05% w/v chitosan demonstrated the highest encapsulation efficiency (55.91%) and delivered the highest emitted dose (98.92%) and fine particle fraction (42.62%). CDN demonstrated the first-time-ever reported significant 3.3 log-cycle inhibition of P. aeruginosa biofilm cultured in ASM. TEM images revealed the formation of spherical particles with an average size of 42.98 ± 19.19 nm. FTIR and XRD studies demonstrated the compatibility of the components with the presence of the characteristic features of chitosan and date powder.ConclusionsThis novel work showcases CDN as a prophylactic adjuvant for the management of cystic fibrosis using DPI.

Assessment of the acute and subacute toxicity of the aqueous extract of Moroccan Ferula communis fruit in a mouse model

Ferula communis L. is thought to possess a wide range of therapeutic qualities. This plant's safety is critical regarding its potential uses as a medicine. Using the techniques outlined in the OECD recommendations, the present study aimed to assess the acute and subacute toxicity profiles of Ferula communis aqueous extract (FC-Ext) in mice. In the acute study, the FC-Ext was administered to adult male and female Swiss albino mice through oral and intraperitoneal routes at doses of 0–4 g/kg. The general behavioral effects, mortality rates, and latency of mortality were evaluated for a period of 14 days. For the sub-acute dose study, the FC-Ext was administered orally to adult mice at doses of 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg on a daily basis for 28 days. Body weight and selected biochemical and hematological parameters were measured, and histological examinations of the liver, kidney, and spleen were conducted to assess any signs of organ damage at the end of the treatment period. The results of the acute toxicity study demonstrated that the LD50 values for the oral and intraperitoneal administration of FC-Ext were 3.6 g/kg and 2.3 g/kg, respectively. In the subacute toxicity study of FC-Ext, no significant changes in body weight were observed. However, a substantial increase in the weights of the liver, kidney, and spleen was observed in male mice. The administration of FC-Ext to mice at doses higher than 250 mg/kg resulted in a decrease in white blood cells and platelets in both sexes and a reduction in red blood cells and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration in males and hemoglobin in females. No changes in biochemical parameters were observed. Microscopic examination of vital organs such as the liver, kidney, and spleen revealed no significant injuries. Based on the current results, the aqueous extract of Ferula communis has low toxicity. These findings provide important information about the toxicity profile of the traditional medicine plant Ferula communis.

Antioxidant and Anticancer Assessment and Phytochemical Investigation of Three Varieties of Date Fruits.

Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) fruits contain high concentrations of phenolic compounds, particularly flavonoids and other micronutrients, which impact human health due to their potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer characteristics. In the present study, the effect of ethyl acetate, hydroethanol, hydromethanol, and aqueous extract from three date palm varieties (i.e., Ajwa, Siwi, and Sukkari) on phytochemical profiles and antioxidant and anticancer activities was investigated. Fruit extracts were screened for their antioxidant activity using the DPPH· method. Phenolic constituents were quantified and identified using HPLC-DAD. Extracts (ethyl acetate, hydroethanol, and hydromethanol) were assessed for cytotoxicity on nine human cancer cell lines, i.e., MG-63, HCT116, MCF7, MDA-MB-231, HEPG2, HUH7, A549, H460, and HFB4, using the sulphorhodamine-B (SRB) assay. Results showed that the ethyl acetate extract of the Sukkari fruits has the greatest antioxidant potential with an IC50 value of 132.4 ± 0.3 μg·mL-1, while the aqueous extract of Ajwa date fruits exhibited the lowest antioxidant effect with an IC50 value of 867.1 ± 0.3 μg·mL-1. The extracts exhibited potent to moderate anticancer activities against the investigated cancer cell line in a source-dependent manner. Methanol extract of Siwi fruits exhibited the most potent anticancer activity (IC50 = 99 ± 1.6 µg·mL-1), followed by the same extract of Sukkari fruits with an IC50 value of 119 ± 3.5 µg·mL-1 against the cell line of human breast cancer (MDA-MB-231). Additionally, principal component analysis (PCA) was investigated to determine the relationship among the investigated traits and treatments. Our findings reveal that date palm fruit-derived extracts are excellent sources of biologically active constituents and substantiate their potential use in new anticancer strategies from natural resources.

Antioxidant, photo-catalytic activities of biogenic Cu-Ni nano-composite using Terminalia chebula extract

Copper-nickel (Cu-Ni) Bimetallic nanoparticless have been synthesized in an eco-friendly manner using an aqueous extract of the polyphenol-rich Terminalia chebula fruit. The UV–Visible spectral analysis showed that a characteristic peak at λ max 530 nm which confirms the formation of Copper-Nickel (Cu-Ni) Bimetallic nanoparticles and that it was monodisperse. The FTIR and EDX studies revealed that polyphenols in the aqueous extract of Terminalia chebula were utilized for producing the Cu-Ni Bimetallic nanoparticles. The XRD studies confirmed the resultant Copper-Nickel (Cu-Ni) compound was FCC. The sphere shape was confirmed by TEM analysis, with an average size of 20.6 nm. The objective of this study was to evaluate the photocatalytic and antioxidant properties of the biosynthesized Copper-Nickel (Cu-Ni) Bimetallic nanoparticles. Both Congo red dye and Eosin-Y are known to cause cancer. They were broken down by a catalyst in 30 and 60 min, respectively, and their degradation was found to follow first-order dynamics. Maximum antioxidant activity against DPPH was observed at 150 µg/ml, with an EC50 of 78.51 and an EC90 of 65.01 µg/ml.

Green Synthesised TiO2 Nanoparticles-Mediated Terenna asiatica: Evaluation of Their Role in Reducing Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Human Breast Cancer Proliferation.

Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation interplay with the pathogenesis of cancer. Breast cancer in women is the burning issue of this century, despite chemotherapy and magnetic therapy. The management of secondary complications triggered by post-chemotherapy poses a great challenge. Thus, identifying target-specific drugs with anticancer potential without secondary complications is a challenging task for the scientific community. It is possible that green technology has been employed in a greater way in order to fabricate nanoparticles by amalgamating plants with medicinal potential with metal oxide nanoparticles that impart high therapeutic properties with the least toxicity. Thus, the present study describes the synthesis of Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) using aqueous Terenna asiatica fruit extract, with its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. The characterisation of TiO2 NPs was carried out using a powdered X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDX), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and zeta-potential. TiO2 NPs showed their antioxidant property by scavenging 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radicals in a dose-dependent manner with an IC50 value of 80.21 µg/µL. To ascertain the observed antioxidant potential of TiO2 NPs, red blood cells (RBC) were used as an in vitro model system. Interestingly, TiO2 NPs significantly ameliorated all the stress parameters, such as lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein carbonyl content (PCC), total thiol (TT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) in sodium nitrite (NaNO2)-induced oxidative stress, in RBC. Furthermore, TiO2 NPs inhibited RBC membrane lysis and the denaturation of both egg and bovine serum albumin, significantly in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting its anti-inflammatory property. Interestingly, TiO2 NPs were found to kill the MCF-7 cells as a significant decrease in cell viability of the MCF-7 cell lines was observed. The percentage of growth inhibition of the MCF-7 cells was compared to that of untreated cells at various doses (12.5, 25, 50, 100, and 200 µg/mL). The IC50 value of TiO2 NPs was found to be (120 µg/mL). Furthermore, the Annexin V/PI staining test was carried out to confirm apoptosis. The assay indicated apoptosis in cancer cells after 24 h of exposure to TiO2 NPs (120 µg/mL). The untreated cells showed no significant apoptosis in comparison with the standard drug doxorubicin. In conclusion, TiO2 NPs potentially ameliorate NaNO2-induced oxidative stress in RBC, inflammation and MCF-7 cells proliferation.

In vitro Assessment of Antibacterial Activity and Potential Genotoxic Effect of Fruit Extracts of Capparis spinosa L. Plant

This research was carried out to assess the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the genotoxic potential of ethanolic and aqueous (cold and hot) fruit extracts of Capparis spinosa L. (C. spinosa) plant against different types of bacterial strains. The antimicrobial effect of these extracts against the tested bacteria was investigated using broth microdilution method. The potential genotoxic effect was evaluated by ERIC-PCR technique. Results of the current study revealed that the MIC values of ethanolic fruit extract against the tested bacterial had a range of 12.5 mg/ml to 25 mg/ml. However, aqueous fruit extracts had an MIC with a range of 50 mg/ml to 100 mg/mL. The potential genotoxic activity of cold aqueous extract was determined according to the changes in ERIC-PCR profile of E. coli strain treated with extract in comparison to that untreated (negative control). Results of this study suggest the genotoxic effect of aqueous fruit extract on E. coli. Further research is required to assess and identify the biological molecules and their mechanisms in the context of the genotoxicity. In vivo genotoxicity assessment or with the presence of liver extract is recommended to evaluate the safety of using fruits for therapeutic purposes and a valuable nutrient source.

Exploring the anti-inflammatory and anti-pyretic potentials of methanolic and aqueous fruit extracts from ceiba speciosa

Exploring the anti-inflammatory and anti-pyretic potentials of methanolic and aqueous fruit extracts from ceiba speciosa

Modulatory properties of Thespesia garckeana (F. Hoffm.) Exell & Hillc. Aqueous fruit extract on female rats reproductive hormones and tissues histology and potential inhibitory activity of its constituents against SRD5α2

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThespesia garckeana (F. Hoffm.) Exell & Hillc. is called Gorontula (Kola of Tula) in Nigeria, Morojwa in Bostwana, and Thespesia garckeana in South Africa and is widely distributed across Africa. Its parts reportedly possess multiple medicinal properties and are employed for treating various diseases. In Tula, Gombe State, Nigeria, the ripe fruit decoction is taken as remedy for female infertility as documented by Ochokwu and co in the Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare in 2015. Aim of the studyThis research examined the effects of aqueous fruit extract of T. garckeana (F. Hoffm.) Exell & Hillc. (AFETG) on selected reproductive tissues and hormones in female rats and also evaluated the inhibitory potentials of its phytoconstituents against human 5-alpha reductase 2 (SRD5α2) using in silico approach. MethodsTwenty-five (25) sexually matured female rats were randomized into 5 groups (i.e. A - E). Oestrous in the rats was synchronized (subcutaneous oestradiol conjugate [10 μg/100 g BW]). Group A received distilled water (control). Group B received standard drug, clomiphene citrate (0.85 mg/kg BW), while groups C, D, and E received AFETG at 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg BW respectively. The animals were treated for five (5) days and sacrificed 24 h after. Their blood was collected and prepared for analysis of serum prolactin, oestradiol (E2), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) while ovaries, uteruses, and oviducts were studied for histological and histomorphometric changes. For the in silico study, the target protein, human steroid 5α-reductase 2 (SRD5α2) was prepared and its receptor grid was generated using Optimized Potential for Liquid Simulations-2005. The ligand 2D structures were prepared using LigPrep 2.4 software and docked using Glide. The binding energy of the ligands to the protein receptor was predicted using Molecular Mechanics/Generalized Born Surface Area (MM-GBSA) analysis. ResultsAFETG significantly increased serum levels of E2 but did not alter serum levels of prolactin, LH and FSH when compared with distilled water and clomiphene citrate. AFETG also significantly increased ovarian tertiary follicular diameter, oviductal epithelial height and serosa thickness as well as uterine endometrial epithelial height, endometrial thickness, and myometrial thickness when compared with control. Ovarian secondary follicular diameter and oviductal submucosa thickness and muscular thickness were significantly decreased by AFETG when compared with control. Two compounds in T. garckeana (F. Hoffm.) Exell & Hillc.; D-Melezitose (−12.55 kcal/mol XP GScore) and 1, 3, 4-trihydroxy-5-oxo cyclohexane-1-carboxylic acid (−9.136 kcal/mol XP GScore) exhibited higher binding affinities for SRD5α2 than the reference ligand, epristeride (−8.096 kcal/mol XP GScore).In conclusion, the ability of AFETG to increase serum E2 level, thickness of uterine endometrium and ovarian tertiary follicles size can be explored for the treatment of female infertility caused by thinning of the uterine endometrium and reduced follicular size. Two compounds in AFETG (i.e. D-Melezitose and 1, 3, 4-trihydroxy-5-oxo cyclohexane-1-carboxylic acid are potential inhibitors of SRD5α2, thus aiding the biosynthesis of E2. Available evidence therefore corroborate the traditional use of T. garckeana (F. Hoffm.) Exell & Hillc fruit as a female fertility enhancer in Northern Nigeria.

Synthesis and Characterization of Citrus limonum Copper Nanoparticles and its in vitro Evaluation of Cytotoxicity against JURKAT Cells

Background Biosynthesized copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) are eco-friendly, cost-effective, and biocompatible agents reported for extensive biomedical and bioengineering applications. Different chemical synthesis approaches have been established recently, with challenges of higher toxicity and high cost involved in the synthesis process. Green synthesized nanoparticles emerged and was extensively reported to address the challenges faced by traditional chemical synthesis processes. However, the high toxicity remains a significant challenge for translating the green synthesized nanoparticles into clinically valuable products. Purpose To synthesize, characterize, and evaluate the citrus extract-based CuNps cytotoxicity against JURKAT cell lines. Materials and Methods An aqueous extract of the citrus fruit was used as a reducing agent, and the CuNps were synthesized. Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), Ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectrophotometry, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to confirm the synthesis of CuNp and its structure. Furthermore, the effect of CuNPs on cell viability and toxicity was evaluated by mitochondrial toxicity tests (MTT) and LDH assays against the JURKAT cell lines. Results and Conclusion The synthesized nanoparticle’s size ranged from 40 to 70 nm, as confirmed through nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) and SEM. The synthesized nanoparticles were confirmed to be anti-proliferative with a high percent of cytotoxicity as found from MTT and LDH leakage assays. The size and shape of the synthesized CuNPs as studied by SEM were found to be 30–70 nm and more or less spherical. MTT reported 64.87% inhibition at 320 µg/mL with an IC50 value of 80.78 µg/mL ( p < 0.05). Cytotoxicity as measured by the LDH assay was found to be 53.12 ± 0.89% at 320 µg/mL with an IC50 of 23.12 ± 0.39 when compared to the positive control (11.21 ± 0.15 µg/mL). Green-synthesized CuNPs exhibited potential anti-cancerous activity in JURKAT cell lines, as evidenced by the LDH and MTT assays.

Antibacterial and anticancer activities of green-synthesized silver nanoparticles using Photinia glabra fruit extract.

Aims: We prepared Photinia glabra (PG) aqueous fruit extract, utilized it to synthesize silver nanoparticles (PG-Ag NPs) and evaluated theantibacterial and anticancer activities of the nanoparticles (NPs). Materials & methods: Silver nitrate aqueous solution was reduced to PG-Ag NPs usingaqueous PGfruit extract. NP shape, size, composition and functionalization were determined using transmission electron microscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infraredand x-ray diffraction. Results & conclusions: PG-Ag NPs were spherical, approximately39-77 nm-sized, functionalized surfaces with notable antibacterial activity against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, with anMIC <30ug/ml and cytotoxicity toward esophageal cancer cells, with IC50 values less than20ug/ml. PG-Ag@rt NPs have been shown to bea potent antibacterial and anticancer agent, and their enriched particle surfaces can be conjugated with other compounds for multibiomedical applications.