Licorice Research Articles

Glycyrrhiza glabra hydroethanolic extract and manuka honey alone and in combination inhibit bacterial and fungal planktonic cells and biofilms

BackgroundThe natural tendency of polymicrobial infections and co-habitation of bacteria and Candida are currently well-recognized and reported as highly fatal. This kind of interaction is usually associated with drug tolerance, infection relapse, persistence and high mortality. The interest in natural products has emerged and their potential applicability as therapeutic strategies is being constantly explored. PurposeThe main goal of this work is to evaluate the effect of the hydroethanolic extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra, and Manuka honey, in Staphylococcus aureus and Candida tropicalis planktonic cells and single and mixed biofilms. MethodsThe effect of both the G. glabra extract and the honey was evaluated by determination of the minimum inhibitory/bactericidal/fungicidal concentrations and by determination of their antibiofilm activity (alone and in combination) on single and mixed-species biofilms. In addition, phenolic compounds were characterized in the hydroethanolic extract with high performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. ResultsAmong the phenolic compounds identified in the G. glabra extract, flavonoids were the most abundant (≈75 % of the total phenolic compounds), with liquiritigenin being the most representative. S. aureus and C. tropicalis were susceptible to both antimicrobials acting alone. When tested in combination, a significative synergism was observed against C. tropicalis single biofilm formation. Instead, the combination showed an additive effect against mixed biofilms of S. aureus and C. tropicalis. In general the combination G. glabra+honey showed a broader antibiofilm effect than each partner alone. ConclusionThe results showed the good anti S. aureus and C. tropicalis effect of G. glabra and manuka honey against both pathogens tested and highlighted their potential use in combination as therapeutic strategy to combat S. aureus, C. tropicalis and mixed species infections particularly when growing as biofilms.

Investigation of the inhibitory activity of extracts, fractions and secondary metabolites of <i>Silene</i> spp. (Caryophylaceae) and <i>Serratula cupuliformis</i> (Asteraceae) on the «entry» of herpes simplex type 2 into sensitive cells of the Vero line

In vitro analysis of the inhibitory activity of extracts, fractions and secondary metabolites of plants of the genus Silene (Caryophylaceae) and Serratula cupuliformis (Asteraceae) to the «entry» of herpes simplex type 2 (HSV‐2) into sensitive cells of the Vero line.Ethanol extracts and butanol fractions of Silene spp. and Serratula cupuliformis were prepared. The flavonoid shaftoside and the ecdysteroid 20‐hydroxyecdysone from Lychnis chalcedonica were isolated. For analysis of biologically active substances (BAS) the HPLC method was used. The samples were dissolved in distilled water or DMSO. The laboratory strain MS HSV‐2 was grown on Vero cell culture. In vitro analysis of the inhibitory activity of the herbal preparations on «entry» of HSV‐2 was performed in Vero cell culture by direct inactivation (neutralisation) of virions with 103 PFU /ml.Effective concentrations (EC50) have been identified in the range of 50 % from 2.12±0.47 to 180.99±49.24 μg/ml when preparations were dissolved in water and from 1.99±0.44 to 57.42±14.74 μg/ml when they were dissolved in DMSO. Such results for some samples is comparable to the EC50 of comparison preparations (dry ethanol extracts of spice of cloves, chaga and licorice root). The results obtained suggest the presence of BAS in the herbal preparations studied that act destructively on HSV‐2 virions and affect one of the main stages of its «life» cycle – the «entry» of the virus into sensitive cells.

Green Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles Using Liquiritin and Other Phenolics from Glycyrrhiza glabra and Their Anti-Inflammatory Activity.

Phenolic compounds are the main phytochemical constituents of many higher plants. They play an important role in synthesizing metal nanoparticles using green technology due to their ability to reduce metal salts and stabilize them through physical interaction/conjugation to the metal surface. Six pure phenolic compounds were isolated from licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and employed in synthesizing gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). The isolated compounds were identified as liquiritin (1), isoliquiritin (2), neoisoliquiritin (3), isoliquiritin apioside (4), liquiritin apioside (5), and glabridin (6). The synthesized AuNPs were characterized using UV, zeta sizer, HRTEM, and IR and tested for their stability in different biological media. The phenolic isolates and their corresponding synthesized NP conjugates were tested for their potential in vitro cytotoxicity. The anti-inflammatory effects were investigated in both normal and inflammation-induced settings, where inflammatory biomarkers were stimulated using lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) in the RAW 264.7 macrophage cell line. LPS, functioning as a mitogen, promotes cell growth by reducing apoptosis, potentially contributing to observed outcomes. Results indicated that all six pure phenolic isolates inhibited cell proliferation. The AuNP conjugates of all the phenolic isolates, except liquiritin apioside (5), inhibited cell viability. LPS initiates inflammatory markers by binding to cell receptors and setting off a cascade of events leading to inflammation. All the pure phenolic isolates, except isoliquiritin, neoisoliquiritin, and isoliquiritin apioside inhibited the inflammatory activity of RAW cells in vitro.

Detection of isoflavones and phytoestrogen-rich plant extracts binding to estrogen receptor β using a yeast-based fluorescent assay

Alchemilla vulgaris L., Trifolium pratense L. and Glycyrrhiza glabra L. are important remedies in traditional medicine, known for many usages, including treating gynecological diseases. Despite folkloric use of the plant materials, there is a lack of scientific data to support their therapeutic application. The aims of the present study were to evaluate the relative binding affinities (RBAs) of plant-derived phytoestrogens for estrogen receptor β (ERβ) using fluorescent biosensor in yeast and to apply this assay for the assessment of the potential of plant materials towards ERs and treatment of estrogen-related disorders. Ligand-binding domain of ERβ fused with yellow fluorescent protein (ERβ LBD-YFP) was expressed in S. cerevisiae and fluorescence was detected by fluorimetry and fluorescence microscopy. Structural basis for experimental results was explored by molecular docking. Yeast-based fluorescent assay was successfully optimized and applied for identification of natural phenolic compounds and phytoestrogen-rich plant extracts that interact with ERβ-LBD, making this biosensor a valuable tool for screening estrogenic potential of a variety of plant extracts. This assay can be used for preliminary testing of plant-derived or fungal extracts, but also other sources of environmental substances with ER-modulating activity in order to assess their possible effects on the female reproductive system.

Biochemical Changes in Embryogenic and Nonembryonic Callus of Glycyrrhiza glabra L. during Somatic Embryogenesis

The continuous extraction of glycyrrhizin from Glycyrrhiza glabra L. has led to the critical endangerment of this therapeutic plant. Glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, is a vital secondary metabolite renowned for its diverse pharmacological benefits, including anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiallergic, antiulcer properties, and even efficacy against HIV. However, the relentless harvesting of roots for high-value glycyrrhizin results in the obliteration of the entire plant, posing a severe threat to its existence and causing a detrimental impact on biodiversity. To counteract this challenge and conserve the species, sustainable approaches are imperative. One such approach involves the utilization of in vitro regeneration through somatic embryogenesis for clonal proliferation and genetic modification. This report presents findings on SE-associated proteins in Glycyrrhiza glabra L., accomplished through the implementation of the discontinuous gel electrophoresis technique. The study focused on a comparative isozyme analysis employing non-embryogenic and embryogenic calli of G. glabra L. Remarkably, these isozymes were exclusively identified and exhibited affiliations with a spectrum of cellular functions. A substantial portion of these proteins are engaged in a diverse range of metabolic and stress-related functions. This study utilized crude enzyme/total protein extracts as a basis to evaluate the genetic stability of in vitro cultivated plant tissue. Acid phosphatase, esterase, and peroxidase were selected as indicators for this assessment. Intriguingly, esterase and acid phosphatase exhibited significant polymorphism between the segregated embryogenic callus (EC) and non-embryogenic callus (NEC) derived from the same G. glabra L. genotype. Comparative analyses encompassing esterase, acid phosphatase, and peroxidase activities, alongside the expression profiles of these isozymes throughout somatic embryogenesis (SE), were conducted using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Notably, the isoenzyme patterns of calluses were assessed. The activity of isozymes within an embryogenic line of callus surpassed that within a non-embryogenic counterpart. However, no conspicuous alterations in quality were observed between the non-embryogenic and embryogenic calluses.

Phytochemical characterization, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities of the Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation Mentone

Introduction: Polyherbalism is extensively practiced in traditional medicine and constitutes complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Greater therapeutic efficacy ensues from the synergistic effects of constituents mediated by pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic interactions and safety at higher dosages. Very few studies exist on mechanistics, despite rampant polyherbal use. Mentone tablet is a polyherbal constituting equal components of Centella asiatica (L.) Urban, Convolvulus pluricaulis Choisy, Glycyrrhiza glabra L., and Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers ex Hook. F. and Thomson. Materials and Methods: Proximate and phytochemical analysis followed by quantification of polyphenolics was carried out. Asiatic acid, berberine, betaine, and glycyrrhizin were characterized using ultraviolet–high-performance liquid chromatography (UV-HPLC). Antioxidant activity was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) quenching activity, ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) assay, and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) scavenging activity. Antimicrobial activity was determined by Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion microbial susceptibility test followed by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method. Results: Aqueous extraction using Soxhlet generated maximum yield. Proximate analysis yielded 52.96% ash, pH ranged from 5.75 to 5.76, and 5% moisture content. Qualitative analysis revealed the presence of inorganic substances and phytochemicals: saponins, reducing sugars, terpenoids, starch, glycosides, and triterpenoids. Phenols were higher in aqueous, while flavonoids and tannins were higher in ethanolic extracts. HPLC revealed the presence of glycyrrhizin and asiatic acid. Mentone extracts at 100 µg/mL showed the highest antioxidant activity in DPPH, FRAP assays, and H2O2 radical scavenging. Ethanolic extracts above 50 mg/mL demonstrated antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 700603. Conclusion: Mentone contains phytochemicals with antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. With active constituents such as asiatic acid and glycyrrhizin, Mentone could constitute a CAM for oxidative stress-induced diseases, including neurodegeneration.

ECOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA L., ITS IMPORTANCE IN AGRICULTURE AND MEDICINE

In this article, a deep scientific analysis of the unique properties of the medicinal plant Glycyrrhiza glabra L., its importance and necessity in agriculture is given, based on which the relevance of this topic is scientifically explained in a wide way.

Improvement of visual acuity in non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy with Nimi Nirdishta Yoga- A case report

Ayurveda can serve in many disease conditions, whereas conventional systems face several limitations. Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is among such conditions, where effective management is becoming a challenge. Diabetic Retinopathy leads to visual disability and is one of the major complications of Diabetes Mellitus (DM). Currently available conventional treatments for DR have certain limitations; considering this fact, options from alternative resources are being searched. In Ayurveda, retinal diseases can be included in Drishtigata roga (~eye sight disorder) and DR can be correlated with Timir (~a class of morbid affections of the coats of the eye), as pathology of Timir is secondary to systemic Dosha Dushti (~vitiation of body humor) and DR can be considered as Pramehajanya Timir. A male patient of 61 years visited the Netra (ophthalmic) OPD complaining of defective distant and near vision for two months. Based upon the history of diabetes and clinical signs and symptoms, he was diagnosed with Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR) in both eyes. The indirect ophthalmoscopy investigation was used to confirm the diagnosis. Nimi Nirdishta yoga which contains Triphala, Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn.), and Ghrita was administered for one month daily at night with honey. At the end of one month, there was improvement noted in distant vision without glasses from 6/18 to 6/12 in the right eye and 6/9 to 6/6p in the left eye while near vision from N/8 to N/6 in both eyes with glasses. Indirect ophthalmoscopy revealed a reduction in exudates and hemorrhages. The observations reveal that Ayurvedic approaches are helpful in managing Diabetic Retinopathy.

A Practical Algorithm Integrating Skin Care With Nonenergy and Injectable Dermatologic Procedures to Improve Patient Outcomes and Satisfaction.

The most rapidly increasing medical aesthetic procedures for facial antiaging comprise nonenergy and injectable treatments. Currently, standards for skin care before, during, and after nonenergy and injectable treatments are lacking. The algorithm on supportive skin care for facial antiaging nonenergy and injectable treatments aims to stimulate healing, reduce downtime, and improve comfort and treatment outcomes.  Methods: A panel of 7 global physicians employed a modified Delphi method and reached a consensus on an algorithm for supportive skin care for nonenergy and injectable antiaging treatments based on the best available evidence and the panel members’ clinical experiences and opinions. The algorithm has a pretreatment (starts 2 – 4 weeks before the procedure) and treatment or ongoing (day of treatment) section, followed by care after the procedure (0 – 7 days) and follow-up care (1 – 4 weeks after the procedure). Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher, combined with protective measures, such as wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, is recommended to protect the face from sun exposure. Dyschromia is a significant concern for those with richly pigmented skin. Clinicians may recommend skin care using a gentle cleanser and moisturizer containing vitamins C and E, retinoid, or other ingredients, such as niacinamide, kojic acid, licorice root extract, azelaic acid, and tranexamic acid, depending on the patient's facial skin condition. Nonenergy and injectable procedures combined with skin care or topical treatments may improve outcomes and patient satisfaction. Topical antioxidants and free radical quenchers can combat photodamage and may offer a safe alternative to topical hydroquinone.    J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(4):     doi:10.36849/JDD.7918.

HEPATOPROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF GLYCYRRHIZ GLABRA AND CICORIUM INTYBUS IN PARACETAMOL INDUCED TOXICITY IN RATTUS NORVEGICUS

Aims and Objectives:The present study was aimed to determine hepatoprotective role of two plants Glycyrrhiza glabra and Cicorium intybus against paracetamol (acetaminophen) exposure hepatotoxicity in albino rats (Rattus norvegicus). It has been demonstrated that G. glabra and C.intybus extract has biological capabilities of anti-oxidation, detoxification and anti-infection. Methodology:So, to evaluate the effects of G. glabra and C.intyubs administration on the liver’s histology and some biochemical parameters were investigated. Rattus norvegicus male rats (n= 48) were randomly distributed into four groups. Experimental groups were given acetaminophen with 2.5mg/kg BW /day for 5 days respectively to induce hepatotoxicity, then aqueous extract of G. glabra (Roots) and C.intybus (Seeds) at 200 mg/kg/day was given for a period of 10, 20 and 30 days. After the completion of experiment, tissues were taken and blood was collected in order to evaluate histopathological changes, and for studies of biochemical parameters separately. The obtained results showed hepatic necrosis and centrilobular hepatic congestion with a decrease in hepatocytes diameter, and increase in sinusoidal spaces was also observed in the liver of treated rats. Results:Liver enzymes ALP, AST and ALT and other biochemical factors Albumin, Bilirubin showed a significant increase in 200 mg/kg extract received rats in comparison with control (P<0.05) and (P<0.01). G.glabra and C.intybus have shown a remarkable and effective impact on RLW which was statistically significant (P<0.05), percentage increase and decrease showed that both plants have good effective on the recovery of body weight, affected by the paracetamol (acetaminophen ) toxicity.Some harmful effects of C.intybus were seen on integrity of liver in 30 days consumption of this plant.

Study of Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract as green corrosion inhibitor for Copper in Nitric acid.

Study of Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract as green corrosion inhibitor for Copper in Nitric acid.

A transcriptome-wide identification of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters revealed participation of ABCB subfamily in abiotic stress management of Glycyrrhiza glabra L

Transcriptome-wide survey divulged a total of 181 ABC transporters in G. glabra which were phylogenetically classified into six subfamilies. Protein–Protein interactions revealed nine putative GgABCBs (-B6, -B14, -B15, -B25, -B26, -B31, -B40, -B42 &-B44) corresponding to five AtABCs orthologs (-B1, -B4, -B11, -B19, &-B21). Significant transcript accumulation of ABCB6 (31.8 folds), -B14 (147.5 folds), -B15 (17 folds), -B25 (19.7 folds), -B26 (18.31 folds), -B31 (61.89 folds), -B40 (1273 folds) and -B42 (51 folds) was observed under the influence of auxin. Auxin transport-specific inhibitor, N-1-naphthylphthalamic acid, showed its effectiveness only at higher (10 µM) concentration where it down regulated the expression of ABCBs, PINs (PIN FORMED) and TWD1 (TWISTED DWARF 1) genes in shoot tissues, while their expression was seen to enhance in the root tissues. Further, qRT-PCR analysis under various growth conditions (in-vitro, field and growth chamber), and subjected to abiotic stresses revealed differential expression implicating role of ABCBs in stress management. Seven of the nine genes were shown to be involved in the stress physiology of the plant. GgABCB6, 15, 25 and ABCB31 were induced in multiple stresses, while GgABCB26, 40 & 42 were exclusively triggered under drought stress. No study pertaining to the ABC transporters from G. glabra is available till date. The present investigation will give an insight to auxin transportation which has been found to be associated with plant growth architecture; the knowledge will help to understand the association between auxin transportation and plant responses under the influence of various conditions.

The Glycyrrhiza glabra L. crude extract alleviates lipid accumulation in NAFLD by activating Nrf2 and promoting autophagy

Glycyrrhiza glabra L. is a common heritage herbal medicine rich in antioxidant compounds such as flavonoids and triterpenoids. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease has been the global prevalent chronic liver disorder. To investigate the curative role and mechanism of the Glycyrrhiza glabra L. crude extract on NAFLD, in vitro, we used oleic acid, palmitic acid, ML-385 and 3-MA to stimulate HepG2 cells. In vivo, we used Tyloxapol to inject mice intraperitoneally to establish an acute model, and high-fat diet to feed wild-type, Nrf2-/- and ATG5flox/flox mice to establish a chronic model. We used high performance liquid chromatography to analyse the content of major bioactive components in the Glycyrrhiza glabra L. crude extract. Our study found the Glycyrrhiza glabra L. crude extract could effectively alleviate lipid accumulation in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, activate Nrf2 and promote autophagy. However, this alleviating effect disappeared when the Nrf2 and autophagy were inhibited separately. Our study demonstrates that crude extraction of active ingredients from traditional herbal medicines may be a potentially inexpensive, rapid and safe approach to alleviate lipid accumulation in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Development of Multi-particulate Formulation of Glabridin with L-Phenylalanine and Its Pre-clinical Evaluation for Anti-obesity Activity

Obesity is a chronic condition that is defined by pathophysiological mechanisms that lead to an increase in adipose tissue mass as a result of positive energy balance. Obesity is a multi-factorial disorder involving different mechanisms of action like humoral and neurogenic actions. Hypertrophied and hyperplastic adipocytes are indicative of pathological obesity. In the current treatment regimen, the drugs used mainly focus on a single mechanism of action. Herbal medicines are reported to have anti-obesity activity but due to the presence of multiple phytoconstituents its very difficult for one to finalize the dose and issue of palatability. So the best solution is to focus on usage of active phytoconstituent as an anti-obesity medicine. A high protein diet proved to have anti-obesity activity, the main constituent responsible for this activity is L-phenylalanine which is an essential amino acid that produces its activity by stimulating the satiety centre and thus decreases food intake. In this study, we are combining glabridin from Glycyrrhiza glabra and L-phenylalanine as both show anti-obesity activity through different action mechanisms, which may result in synergism. The study aims to prepare multi-particulate system (granules) of glabridin with L-phenylalanine and evaluate their anti-obesity and hypo-lipidemic action in HFD-treated rats.

DIAMMONIUM GLYCYRRHIZINATE INHIBITED INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE AND MODULATED SERUM METABOLISM IN POLY(I:C)-INDUCED PNEUMONIA MODEL MICE.

Currently, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is becoming a serious threat to human health worldwide. Therefore, there is a great need to develop effective drugs against viral pneumonia. Diammonium glycyrrhizinate (DG), derived from Glycyrrhiza glabra L., has been demonstrated with significant anti-inflammatory properties. However, the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of DG on pneumonia require further clarification. In this study, mice received intratracheal injection of polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly(I:C)) to induce pneumonia and were treated with DG. First, we evaluated the therapeutic potential of DG on poly(I:C)-induced pneumonia. Second, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidative activities and the impact of DG on the toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) pathway were investigated. Third, the mechanism of DG was analyzed through untargeted metabolomics techniques. Our results revealed that DG intervention decreased permeability and reduced abnormal lung alterations in poly(I:C)-induced pneumonia model mice. DG intervention also downregulated cytokine levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Moreover, DG treatment inhibited the activation of TLR3 pathway. Furthermore, untargeted metabolomics analysis revealed that DG intervention could modulate serum metabolites involved in amino and nucleotide sugar metabolism, fructose and mannose metabolism, tyrosine metabolism, and phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis pathways. In conclusion, our study showed that DG could ameliorate poly(I:C)-induced pneumonia by inactivating the TLR3 pathway and affecting amino and nucleotide sugar, fructose and mannose metabolism, as well as tryptophan, phenylalanine, and tyrosine biosynthesis.

"Therapeutic potential of licorice extract in a prenatal valproic acid model of autism spectrum disorder in Wistar rats: Neurobehavioral and neurobiochemical insights"

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), impose significant burdens on society due to their genetic and clinical complexity. We explored the therapeutic potential of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) extract in a prenatal valproic acid (VPA) model of ASD. Neurobehavioral parameters encompassing social interaction, locomotor activity, repetitive behaviour, anxiety-related behaviour, and learning and memory were assessed in Wistar rat offspring. Licorice extract administration at 150 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg was initiated from postnatal day 21, emulating the developmental stage of early childhood. The study incorporated a controlled group, a VPA-induced ASD group, and groups treated with two different doses of licorice extract and Risperidone.Results revealed that licorice extract, particularly at 300 mg/kg, exhibited remarkable potential in restoring social interaction deficits, enhancing locomotor activity, attenuating repetitive behaviour, and mitigating anxiety-related behaviour-like behaviours. Furthermore, licorice extract displayed cognitive benefits, as evidenced by the discrimination index enhancement in object recognition memory. Importantly, licorice extract demonstrated modulatory effects on neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, evident through suppressed interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels, as well as reduced thiobarbaturic acid reactive substances (TBARS) in the brain.These findings underscore the promising neuroprotective properties of Glycyrrhiza glabra extract against prenatal VPA-induced ASD-like behaviours. The elucidation of licorice's multifaceted impact on behaviour, cognition, and neurobiochemical markers offers a potential avenue for future therapeutic interventions for ASD, meriting further investigation in clinical contexts. This study contributes to the expanding knowledge of natural compounds in ameliorating complex neurodevelopmental disorders and highlights the necessity of multi-faceted approaches to address their intricate etiology and manifestation.

Formulation and bioavailability studies on orodispersible tablets containing standardized extracts of Glycyrrhiza glabra, Curcuma longa and Piper nigrum

BackgroundGlycyrrhizin, Curcumin and Piperine indicated good antiasthamatic properties owing to their ability to inhibit airways constriction and anti-inflammatory properties. Orodispersible tablets have advantage of faster drug release and has patient compliance in asthmatic patients. Hypothesis / PurposeTo develop an orodispersible polyherbal tablets using the standardized extracts of Glycyrrhiza glabra, Curcuma longa and Piper nigrum with respect to glycyrrhizin, curcumin and piperine respectively and evaluate bioavailability of the markers from the formulation. MethodsAlcoholic extracts of G. glabra, C. longa, and P. nigrum were standardized using HPTLC for glycyrrhizin, curcumin, and piperine content, respectively. The orodispersible tablet formulation was created and standardized for curcumin (50 mg), glycyrrhizin (75 mg), and piperine (2.5 mg) per tablet, using the HPTLC method. The absolute Bioavailability studies were conducted for glycyrrhetinic acid and curcumin in rats by administering pure marker compounds intravenously (2 mg/kg b.w) and orally (10 mg/kg b.w.), followed by determining relative bioavailability through oral administration of the orodispersible tablet formulations. ResultsOrodispersible tablets could be successfully developed using the standardized extracts. The HPTLC bioanalytical method was developed and validated as per M 10 guideline and results were in accordance to specifications. The bioavailability studies in rats indicated absolute bioavailability of Glycyrrhetinic acid and Curcumin to be 20.35 and 2.57% respectively and relative bioavailabilities of orodispersible formulation F1 were found to be 75 and 38.67%. ConclusionA standardized orodispersible formulation can be a better option for asthma patients. The low absolute bioavailability of curcumin was significantly (P<0.05) increased in both the formulations F1 and F2. This may be attributed to the extracts containing saponin glycosides like Glycyrrhizin aiding into greater dissolution of curcumin. Formulation with piperine (F1) showed significant increase in bioavailability is due to inhibition of human P-glycoprotein, cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) and increase secretion of bile acids.

Innovative prophylactic and therapeutic approaches in liver cirrhosis.

Liver cirrhosis is the consequence of chronicisation and of the evolution of untreated liver diseases. The complexity of the disease and the complications it can cause have been and are still intensively researched, aiming to discover new therapies or improve existing ones for the effective management of liver cirrhosis. Currently, the treatment used is directed against the cause that caused the disease, if it is known; in advanced cases, liver transplantation is the only valid therapeutic option. Hepatoprotectors that are currently on the market are numerous, having as common properties the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, stabilizing properties of the hepatocytic membrane; A few examples: the ethanolic extract of Curcuma longa, the extract from the plant called Sophora flavescens, the extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra, silymarin (extracted from Sylibum marianum), the extract of Ganoderma lucidum, etc. Liver cirrhosis is accompanied by generalized hypovitaminosis, so supplementing the diet with hydro- and liposoluble vitamins is mandatory. Protein-caloric malnutrition can be prevented by a hyperprotein diet, especially beneficial being the supplementation with branched-chain amino acids, which are also applicable in the prophylaxis and treatment of hepatic encephalopathy. Nanoparticles are a state-of-the-art therapeutic option, proving increased bioavailability, for example polydopamine nanoparticles loaded with l-arginine have been tested as therapy in liver cirrhosis. Among the innovative treatment directions in liver cirrhosis are hybrid products (e.g. hybrid polymer nanoparticles loaded with caffeic acid), cell cultures and artificial or bioartificial liver support.

Effects of natural and chemical rooting stimulants on some root traits of two varieties of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cuttings

The experiment ran from the middle of February until the start of November 2023 under the plant canopy of the Department of Horticulture and Landscape, College of Agriculture, University of Kerbala. The study employed a Randomized Complete Block Design (R.C.B.D.) as a factorial experiment, with two pomegranate varieties (Yamani and Bashkan) as the first factor and various combinations of natural and chemical rootings as the second factor. These included extracts of moringa leaves (M0, M1) and licorice roots (L0, L1) at concentrations of 0 and 15 g L-1 each, as well as indole butyric acid at a concentration of 0 and 10 mg L-1 (B0, B1). The majority of the root features of the resultant seedlings demonstrated that, overall, the Bashkan variety outperformed the Yamani variety; however, this superiority varied when combined with other rooting combinations. Between the rooting stimulant combinations utilized in the study, the cuttings' dipping results differed. When it came to the quantity, size, and fresh and dry weight of the root system, indole butyric acid in combination with B1M0L0 performed better. It resulted in 250.000 root seedlings-1, 2.270 cm3, 20,680 g, and 6,650 g, respectively. In contrast, the B0M0L1 licorice root treatment demonstrated superior root length, reaching 38,100 cm. Both the percentage of rooting and the average root diameter were the largest in the combination including both extracts, B0M1L1, reaching 5.170% and 1.603 mm, respectively. Given that natural extracts have outperformed chemical radicals in the majority of the rooting qualities under study—such as licorice root extract and moringa leaf extract—it is possible to conclude from the aforementioned results on their suitability for usage as an alternative.

Development and evaluation of sildenafil/glycyrrhizin-loaded nanofibers as a potential novel buccal delivery system for erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a growing health condition that needs safe and effective therapy. One of the main common treatments is sildenafil which is used in clinics for managing erectile dysfunction by enhancing the blood supply to the penis. In the current study, sildenafil was formulated as nanofibers and mixed with the root extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra (glycyrrhizin) as a natural sweetener to be administrated in the buccal cavity for enhanced drug bioavailability, rapid drug absorption and improved patient compliance. The formulated dual-loaded nanofibers were evaluated by measuring diameter, disintegration, drug loading efficiency, drug release profile, and in vitro cell viability assessment. The results showed that the sildenafil/glycyrrhizin-loaded fibers had a diameter of 0.719 ± 0.177 μm and lacked any beads and pores formation on their surfaces. The drug loading and encapsulation efficiency for sildenafil were measured as 52 ± 7 µg/mg and 67 ± 9 %, respectively, while they were 290 ± 32 μg/mg and 94 ± 10 %, respectively, for glycyrrhizin. The release rate of sildenafil and glycyrrhizin demonstrated a burst release in the first minute, followed by a gradual increment until a complete release after 120 min. The in vitro cell viability evaluation exhibited that the application of sildenafil and glycyrrhizin is safe upon 24-hour treatment on human skin fibroblast cells at all used concentrations (i.e., ≤ 1,000 and 4,000 μg/mL, respectively). However, the application of sildenafil-glycyrrhizin combination (in a ratio of 1:4) demonstrated more than 80 % cell viability at concentrations of ≤ 250 and 1000 μg/mL, respectively, following 24-hour cell exposure. Therefore, sildenafil/glycyrrhizin dual-loaded PVP nanofibers showed a potential buccal therapeutic approach for erectile dysfunction management.