Fractionation Of Methanol Extract Research Articles

Comprehensive analysis of Leonotis nepetifolia flower extracts: phytochemical composition and toxicity in zebrafish embryos.

Leonotis nepetifolia (L.) R. Br., a plant used in traditional medicine, has underexplored phytochemical and toxicological profiles. This study investigates the metabolite profile of L. nepetifolia flowers and assesses their toxicity using zebrafish (ZF) embryos. The main active compounds were characterised using metabolomic approaches. ZF embryos were exposed to methanol extract (CEF), n-hexane (FHF) and ethyl acetate (FAF) fractions at different concentrations for 96 h. Toxicological effects were assessed including acetylcholinesterase activity, lipid peroxidation, cardiotoxicity, as well as hatching delay, developmental defects and morphological malformations. Phytochemical analysis revealed diverse metabolites, including phytosterols, terpenoids, flavonoids and phenylpropanoids. Verbascoside, a major compound, was isolated from the flowers for the first time. Toxicological assessments showed that CEF and FAF caused various toxic effects, with FAF showing pronounced embryotoxic and teratogenic effects. This study highlights the chemical diversity and potential toxicological risks of L. nepetifolia, emphasising the need for thorough evaluations of herbal medicines.

An Insight Into the Phytochemical Composition, Cardioprotective, and Antioxidant Characteristics of Small Knotweed (Polygonum plebeium R. Br.) Extract and Its Derived Fractions.

Polygonum plebeium, a member of the Polygonaceae family, is commonly known as small knotweed and has been traditionally used to treat various ailments, including cough, gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory infections, liver disease, inflammation, dysentery, eczema and ringworms, and other skin conditions. Many studies have suggested that plants belonging to this genus possess strong cardio-protective potentials. Rats were pre-treated with crude methanolic extract and other fractions at a dose of 500 mg/kg followed by administration of Isoproterenol hydrochloride after 24 h for 2 days. The cardioprotective effect was determined by investigating the levels of Biomarkers responsible for myocardial infarction (MI). Among all fractions Pp.CF (chloroform fraction) exhibited a significant cardioprotective effect by decreasing the levels of ALT, AST, CPK, and LDH to 74.56 ± 1.45, 95.78 ± 2.75, 156.73 ± 1.84, and 215.55 ± 5.33 IU/L in serum. The same fraction was tested for cardio-protective potential at a dose of 50, 100, and 250 mg/kg. Pp.CF at a dose of 250 mg/kg exhibited prominent effects and reduced levels of biomarkers responsible for MI. Further investigations confirmed that Pp.CF possesses antihyperlipidemic, membrane stabilizing, and thrombolytic potential which suggests P. plebeium an ideal candidate for natural product isolation which will be helpful in the management of cardiovascular problems.

Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles Using Cucurbitacin E-Glycoside and Methyl Gallate Isolated from Citrullus colocynthis L. Fruit and Evaluation of their Antibacterial and Antibiofilm Activities.

Metal nanoparticles have received much attention due to their unique physical dynamics, chemical reactivity, and promising biological applications. Green synthesis using natural compounds is an alternative to traditional chemical methods for the synthesis of nanoparticles. Herein, two secondary metabolites were isolated from different fractions of methanolic extract of Citrullus colocynthis (bitter apple) Schard. and identified as cucurbitacin Eglycoside (1) and methyl gallate (2). Both compounds were used in the green nanoformulation of gold nanoparticles. Mass spectrometry and NMR spectroscopy were used for structure elucidation of compound 1 and compound 2. UV-vis spectroscopy, FTIR, and AFM were performed to confirm the formation of AuNPs. The spectra of UV-Vis showed a characteristic peak at 519 nm and 548 nm for compounds 1 and 2, respectively. AuNPs ranged mostly between 1 and 50 nm measured using AFM. The FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of phytochemicals on the surface of AuNPs. The synthesized AuNPs showed good antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The synthesized AuNPs demonstrated good antibiofilm activity against Streptococcus mutans. Thus, the green synthesized AuNPs can combat the pathogenicity of several human pathogens.

Neem Leave (Azadirachta Indica): Extraction, Fractionation, Phytochemical Screening, Antioxidant and Food Antifungal Activities

Neem (Azadirachta indica), a widely recognized medicinal plant, is known for its numerous therapeutic properties. People use neem leaves to increase their appetite to treat dysentery, malarial ulcers, and bacterial infections. Research on neem leaves that has been done is still focused on extracts, but not their fractions. This study aimed to extract neem leaves that separate the components based on their polarity (fractionation), analyze and identify their components, and test antioxidant and antifungal activities. The research stages caried out include (1) extraction and fractionation, (2) analysis (thin layer chromatography, bromine, visible and IR spectrophotometry), (3) phytochemical identification, and (4) assay of antioxidant and antifungal activities. The yield of extraction with methanol is 8.08%. Fractionation of the methanol extract using n-hexane, ethyl acetate, 1-butanol, and methanol-water produced yields of 13.86, 6.84, 16.58, and 48.68%, respectively. The methanol extract contains alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, and saponins, while each fraction contains flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, terpenoids, and saponins. Flavonoid and phenolic compounds is dominant in methanol extract, ethyl acetate fraction, and 1-butanol fraction. Both the two groups of compounds are most content in the ethyl acetate fraction, namely total flavonoid content 17.32 and total phenolic content 12.80 mg GAE/g sample. Ethyl acetate fraction shows the best antioxidant and antifungal activity. The antioxidant activity of this fraction is in the strong category with IC50 19.06 ppm, but weaker than ascorbic acid. The ethyl acetate fraction was able to withstand the growth of mold on white bread for 96 hours at 500 ppm and 120 hours at 2000 ppm. The content of flavonoid and phenolic compounds indicates that it mainly contributes to antioxidant and antifungal activity, and there is a significant relationship between antioxidant and antifungal activity. Neem leaf extract has the potential to be an antioxidant and antifungal for food, especially methanol extract, ethyl acetate, and 1-butanol fractions. Therefore, ethyl acetate and 1-butanol fractions could be an alternative to natural additives in white bread formulations.

Isolation, Characterization, Chemical Profiling and Evaluation of Antidiabetic and Antioxidant Potential of Innula cappa (Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don) DC Leaves in Alloxan-Induced Type 2 Diabetic Mice

Background Innula cappa (Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don) DC (Compositae) is used in folkloric medicine to treat diabetes and other ailments. The current study aimed to assess the anti-hyperglycemic and antioxidant effects of methanolic extract and solvent fractions of I. cappa leaves as well as bioassay guided isolation of active compounds from the active extract. Method The α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition of the extracts was evaluated by colorimetric assays, and the anti-diabetic activity was tested on alloxan-induced diabetic mice model. Moreover, flame emission and atomic absorption spectrometry techniques were employed to analyze the chemical composition of the plant. Compounds were identified and isolated from the leaf latex of I. cappa using FTIR, GCMS, silica gel column chromatography, and their structures were determined using 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and ESI-MS spectral data. Results The results showed that the ME showed significant α-amylase, α-glucosidase inhibitory hyperglycemic activities, significantly improving body weight, glucose tolerance, lipid profiles, and hematological markers. The UV-FTIR spectra revealed diagnostic peaks corresponding to several functional groups whereas GC-MS spectral analysis revealed 35 phytochemical components with different retention times in the ME of I. cappa. Spectroscopic isolation of the ME led to the isolation 5 compounds including ursolic acid, benzoic acid, 2-hydroxybenzoic acid, stigmasterol and β -sitosterol. Conclusion ME exert significant antihyperglycemic and antioxidant effects demonstrating the medicinal value of I. cappa and emphasize its significance as unexplored natural reservoirs of phytogenic chemicals that require further investigation using cutting-edge analytical techniques.

Duguetia furfuracea (A.ST. Hil.) Saff.: Neuroprotective Effect on Chemically Induced Amnesia, Anxiolytic Effects and Preclinical Safety Evaluation in Mice

Duguetia furfuracea, “araticum-seco”, is known to contain several bioactive compounds that can mitigate oxidative stress and act on the central nervous system (CNS). This effect is partly attributed to its potent antioxidant and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors. In this study, the effects were explored of the methanolic extract (MEDF) and alkaloid fraction (AFDF) of D. furfuracea (leaves) on cognitive behaviors in male mice with scopolamine (Scop)-induced cognitive impairment and biochemical parameters. Additionally, anxiolytic behavior, subacute toxicity, molecular docking and antioxidant activity were reported. MEDF (30, 100 or 300 mg/kg) or AFDF (30 mg/kg) were orally administered for 16 days and Scop (intraperitoneally, i.p.) between days 11 and 16. The anxiolytic behavior (open field test and marble burying) in healthy mice, and the Scop-induced memory impairment (object recognition test and Morris water maze (MWM)) were assessed, and the biochemical parameters (malondialdehyde (MDA) and AChE levels) were measured after euthanasia. The subacute toxicological impact of MEDF was assessed in female Swiss mice for 28 days. MEDF and AFDF were available for the DPPH, ABTS and β-carotene/linoleic acid models. The results revealed that MEDF and AFDF exhibit anxiolytic effects and significantly alleviated Sco-induced memory impairment, inhibited AChE in the cortex (40%) and MDA (51.51%) levels. Reticuline was reported in AFDF and molecular coupling with AChE involves link-type hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions. MEDF exhibited antioxidant capacity (DPPH, IC50 = 18.10 ± 1.70 µg/mL; ABTS, IC50 = 10.41 ± 1.69 µg/mL). MEDF did not reveal signs of toxicity. In conclusion, D. furfuracea shows promise in mitigating scopolamine-induced memory deficits, potentially because it inhibits AChE activity, reduces MDA levels, and enhances antioxidant activities.

In vitro anti-inflammatory activity and molecular docking of Peperomia pellucida (L.) Kunth extract via the NF-κB and PPAR-γ signalling in human retinal pigment epithelial cells

This study aims to elucidate the anti-inflammatory mechanism of Peperomia pellucida (L.) Kunth in human retinal pigment epithelial cell line (ARPE-19) as stimulated by high glucose (34 mM and 68 mM), and advanced glycation end product (AGE) under different glucose (17 mM, 34 mM and 68 mM) environments via the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) signalling pathways. The cytotoxicity of P. pellucida in ARPE-19 cells was evaluated with 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay. The genes and proteins expression of nine pro-inflammatory, angiogenic and antioxidant markers, including glutathione peroxidase (GPx), interleukin 8, matrix metalloproteinase 2, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, NF-κB, PPAR-γ, receptor for AGE (RAGE), soluble RAGE (sRAGE), and vascular endothelial growth factor in P. pellucida-treated ARPE-19 cells were compared to non-treated control via real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot. Both P. pellucida methanolic extract (1.5 mg/mL and 3 mg/mL) and ethyl acetate fraction (4 mg/mL) were non-toxic to ARPE-19 cells and demonstrated cytoprotective effect against the high glucose (34 mM) and AGE (17 mM glucose)-induced cellular stress. High glucose and AGE activated the pro-inflammatory signalling in ARPE-19 cells, as evidenced by the increased NF-κB p65 phosphorylation, up-regulation of pro-inflammatory and angiogenic mediators (p<0.05) but reduced GPx, PPAR-γ and sRAGE protein expression. Both P. pellucida methanolic extract (3 mg/mL) and ethyl acetate fraction (4 mg/mL) suppressed (p<0.05) the pro-inflammatory and angiogenic markers expression under high glucose and AGE environment. The main phytochemicals identified in P. pellucida were dillapiole, 2,4,5-trimethoxystyrene, 9-octadecenoic acid, and pheophorbide A-methyl ester which displayed relatively strong binding affinity towards NF-κB p65 and PPAR-γ proteins in molecular docking analysis. This study has demonstrated that P. pellucida is a potential alternative anti-inflammatory source for managing diabetic retinopathy via NF-κB and PPAR-γ signalling.

Evaluation of Sedative activity of Cannabis Sativa in mice

Background: Cannabis sativa Linn. (Family: Cannabaceae) is commonly cultivated in Bangladesh in moist areas such as riverbanks, lakes, canals, and roadsides. The leaves of this plant are traditionally used to treat insomnia, depression, and neurodegenerative diseases. Objective: The study's objective is to investigate the sedative effects and phytochemical composition of the Cannabis sativa species in Nigeria. Methods: The elevated plus maze was used to assess the sedative effect of various fractions of aqueous methanol extracts of Cannabis sativa at a dosage of 100 mg/kg in mice. Comparisons were made between the sedative action of the extract and diazepam, which was used as the positive control. Additionally, acute toxicity was also evaluated during the assessment. Results: During the elevated plus-maze test, various parameters such as the number of entries in open arms and the number of entries in closed arms were recorded. The administration of different fractions of aqueous methanol extracts of Cannabis sativa resulted in a significant increase (p &lt; 0.001) in the time spent in and the number of entries into open arms compared to the control group. Conclusion: The findings suggest that various concentrations of water-methanol extracts from Cannabis sativa exhibit sedative effects that are superior to those of the control (diazepam), supporting the use of this plant in traditional medicine. Further research should be conducted to investigate the active components of Cannabis sativa and understand the mechanism of its effects before proceeding to clinical trials.

Anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory activities of Marrubiin isolated from Marrubium vulgare: Indications of its interaction with PPAR γ

BackgroundThe aerial parts of Marrubium vulgare L. were used for many ailments like catarrh to diabetes in many parts of Latin America and Asia. PurposeIdentifying the active principle responsible for anti-diabetic activity of methanol extract of M. vulgare leaves and to predict the possible targets. Study designAll the activity investigations were conducted simultaneously for the extract, fraction, and isolated compounds to decipher the activity profile in comparison to each other which allowed the identification of an active principle followed by use of in silico methods to identify the possible target/s. MethodsThe aerial parts of M. vulgare were extracted using methanol. A chloroform fraction was prepared. Marrubiin and marrubinone B were isolated from this fraction. The anti-hyperglycemic, hypoglycemic, and postprandial blood glucose lowering activities were investigated using streptozotocin-induced diabetic and non-diabetic rat models. Pro-inflammatory cytokine inhibitory potential was investigated using LPS induced acute-inflammatory mouse model and RAW 264.7 cells. Further, antioxidant activity was investigated using a DPPH assay. The in silico analysis, using the Swiss-target prediction tool, was carried out to predict the probable targets of the isolated molecules. ResultsMarrubiin exhibited anti-hyperglycemic effect in diabetic rats followed by hypoglycemia, and postprandial blood glucose lowering in non-diabetic rats. Methanol extract (Mv extract) and chloroform fraction (Mv fraction) showed anti-hyperglycemic and hypoglycemic effects. Moderate inhibition of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 was observed for marrubiin, marrubinone B, Mv extract, and Mv fraction, in vitro and in vivo. Neither marrubiin nor marrubinone B could quench the DPPH free radicals while Mv extract and Mv fraction could show 80 % suppression. In silico analysis has predicted that marrubiin can interact with PPAR γ but not marrubinone B. ConclusionsMarrubiin and marrubinone B were responsible for the anti-inflammatory effect of Mv extract and Mv fraction while not contributing to the antioxidant effect. Marrubiin was found to be responsible for the anti-diabetic activity of Mv extract. The predicted interaction propensity of marrubiin with PPAR γ could explain its dual activity observed in the experimental setup.

Brine shrimp lethality and antioxidant property of &lt;i&gt;Lagenaria breviflora&lt;/i&gt; (Benth.) Roberty fruit crude extract and fractions

Background: Oxidative injury plays a pivotal impact in the development of human diseases, and it is a major component of the pathophysiology of several inflammation-linked human medical disorders. Objective: The focus of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity and antioxidant potential of the fruit of Lagenaria breviflora (Benth.) Roberty (LB). Methods: The antioxidant capacity of L. breviflora's crude and solvent fractions was assessed using standard techniques by measuring the total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and DPPH radical scavenging activity. The data we0re analyzed using One-way ANOVA, and Dunnett's Multiple Comparison was used to establish the threshold. Results: The total flavonoid contents of fruit methanol extract, LB hexane, chloroform, and ethyl acetate fractions were 32.00 ± 0.94, 224.32 ±0.05, 224.06 ±0.14, and 2615.67 ± 13.20 mg gallic acid equivalent/g of extract, respectively. In contrast, the total phenolic contents were 5218.83 ± 3.18, 2615.67 ± 13.20, and 4553.00 ± 24.27 mg gallic acid equivalent/g of extract, respectively. The crude extract of LB, hexane fraction, chloroform, and ethyl acetate fraction displayed IC50 values of 242.57 ± 8.90, 262.91 ± 6.49, 96.17 ± 2.74, and 221.45 ± 0.83 μg/mL, respectively, for their ability to scavenge DPPH radicals. Ascorbic acid and rutin had IC50 values of 2.76 ± 0.01 and 20.6 ± 9.26 μg/mL, respectively. Conclusions: Fruit from L. breviflora (LB) exhibited strong antioxidant potential, which may have resulted from the fruit's phenolic and flavonoid content. This demonstrates the reason this herb is used in traditional medicine. Keywords: Oxidative stress, brine shrimp lethality assay, total phenolic contents, total flavonoid contents, DPPH, Lagenaria breviflora fruit.

Exploring the anticancer potential of Lasia spinosa rhizomes: insights from molecular docking and DFT investigations on chlorogenic acid and beyond

Lasia spinosa (L.) Thwaites rhizomes (LSR), historically utilised in traditional medicine for various health sufferings, including cancer, represent an intriguing yet underexplored reservoir of bioactive constituents. Our study focused on exploring the anticancer potential of LSR and its phytoconstituents. The methanol extract of LSR exhibited significant cytotoxicity against various cancer cell lines compared to other extracts. The fractionation of methanol extract resulted in the isolation of chlorogenic acid (CA), oleanolic acid, β-amyrin, and lyonoresinol. Molecular docking analysis of these isolated compounds targeted at the active sites of CDK-2, VEGFR-2, and ToP-2A enzymes revealed the superior docking score of CA compared to the other constituents. Additionally, density functional theory studies indicated the strong electrophilic nature of CA and its potential for robust enzyme binding interactions. Subsequent MTT assays focusing on CA exhibited significant activity against all tested cell lines, with IC50 values ranging from 21.56 to 72.60 μg/ml, comparable to quercetin.

Chemical constituents and antimicrobial activity of the aerial part of Solanum betaceum Cav. (Solanaceae)

A new saponin namely diosgeninoside (25 R-spirost-5-en-3-O-[β-D-glucopyranosyl (1→2) - β-D-glucuronic acid]) and a new fatty acid betacic acid: (Z)-8(S*),9(S*),10(R*)-trihydroxy-11-octadecenoic acid together with six known compounds: N-trans-coumaroyl tyramine, ergosta-7,22-dien-3β,5α,6β-triol, β-sitosterol, and β-sitosterol-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, L-threitol and soya-cerebroside I were isolated from the methanolic extract of Solanum betaceum. The structures were elucidated by interpretation of their 1D and 2D NMR spectra and spectrometric data. The methanolic extract, the EtOAc and n-BuOH fractions, and several isolated compounds were tested for antibacterial activity against four bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus; Staphylococcus epidermidis; Escherichia coli; and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). The methanolic extract and the EtOAc fraction showed moderate activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa with MIC value of 128 µg/mL. Compound 1 showed moderate activity against Staphylococcus aureus with MIC value of 64 µg/mL.

Evaluation of the Hypoglycemic and Hypolipidemic Potential of Extract Fraction of Quercus baloot Griff Seeds in Alloxan-induced Diabetic Mice.

The discovery and development of new phytomedicines can be greatly aided by plants because of their tremendous therapeutic benefits, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, lack of side effects, and cheaper therapies. In this regard, Quercus baloot, generally known as oak, is used in folkloric medicine for treating and preventing various human disorders, including diabetes. For this purpose, the present study aimed to evaluate crude methanolic extract and various fractions of Quercus baloot for antihyperlipidemic and antihyperglycemic potential followed by the analysis of active compounds. The hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activity was evaluated in Swiss male Albino mice by administering an oral dose of 150-300 mg/kg of Q. baloot extracts in alloxan induced diabetic mice for 14 days. The results revealed that crude methanolic extract at a dose of 300 mg/kg exhibited a significant reduction in the blood glucose level (198.50 ± 1.99 mg/dl) at day 14 and the same treatment significantly increased the body weight (31.26 ± 0.27 g) at day 14 in comparison to the control group. Moreover, the biochemical parameters were investigated which presented an increase in high-density lipids (HDL) (30.33 ± 0.33 mg/dl), whereas low-density lipids (LDL) showed a significant decrease (105.66 ± 0.26 mg/dl). Additionally, triglyceride levels 104.83 ± 0.70 mg/dl, and total cholesterol 185.50 ± 0.76 mg/dl are significantly decreased. In serum biochemical analysis creatinine and hepatic enzyme markers, like serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (32.00 ± 0.36 U/mg), serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (34.33 ± 0.61 U/mg), and alkaline phosphatase (157.00 ± 0.73 U/mg), were significantly reduced by the crude methanolic extract at a dose of 300 mg/kg as compared to the control group. The antioxidant enzymes like Superoxide dismutase (4.57 ± 0.011), peroxidases dismutase (6.53 ± 0.014, and catalase (8.38 ± 0.014) at a dosage of 300 mg/kg of methanolic extract exhibited a significant increase. The histopathological study of the diabetic heart, liver, and pancreas showed substantial restoration of damaged tissues in the methanolic extract 150 and 300 mg/kg treated group, which supports the effectiveness of Q. baloot seeds. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of methanolic extract identified 10 antidiabetic active compounds in the Q. baloot seeds, validating the antihyperglycemic activity. Thus, methanolic crude extract at the doses 150 and 300 mg/kg of Q. baloot showed significant antihyperlipidemic and antihyperglycemic activities, which validate the folkloric utilization of Q. baloot as a remedy in diabetes. In conclusion, the 300 mg/kg methanolic extract of Q. baloot has notable hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic potential, supporting the plant's traditional medicinal usage in the treatment of diabetes and its complications. Further studies are needed for the purification, characterization, and structural clarification of bioactive compounds.

Antioxidant, membrane stabilizing and thrombolytic potentials of the leaves of erythrina fusca lour

Erythrina fusca (Family: Fabaceae) is famous for many traditional healing. In the present study, the leaves of E. fusca were collected, dried, powdered and then extracted with methanol. It was further partitioned into n-hexane, dichloromethane and aqueous soluble fractions. All the extracts were subjected to antioxidant, membrane stabilizing and thrombolytic assays. In case of free radical scavenging assay, the aqueous soluble fraction showed highest scavenging activity. In ferric reducing anti-oxidant power assay, the dicholoromethane extract showed highest reduction of ferric ion in a dose dependent manner. In total antioxidant assay, the methanol extract and dichloromethane extract showed stronger capacity as antioxidant. During the determination of total phenolic and flavonoid contents, the methanol extract and dichloromethane soluble fraction showed higher contents of phenolics and flavonoids, respectively. The erythrocyte membrane stabilizing assay revealed the capacities of methanol extract and its aqueous fraction to stabilize the RBC membrane in both hypotonic solution- and heat- induced hemolytic conditions. However, the clot lysis ability of the E. fusca leaf extracts was not so prominent. Bangladesh J. Bot. 53(3): 439-445, 2024 (September)

In vitro and in vivo pharmacological evaluation of polygonum persicaria l.

The present study was designed to investigate the in vitro antioxidant, cytotoxic, anthelmintic and in vivo analgesic, anti-diarrheal, hypoglycemic and CNS anti-depressant properties of different solvent fractions of methanol extract of leaf and flower of Polygonum persicaria L., a notable medicinal plant in Bangladesh. The crude methanol extracts were partitioned separately to petroleum-ether, carbon tetrachloride, chloroform and aqueous fractions. In DPPH scavenging assay for antioxidant test, the aqueous fraction of flower extract showed maximum antioxidant activity with IC50 of 0.60 μg/ml. Most of the fractions revealed prominent lethality (LC50) against brine shrimp nauplii. The test samples also exhibited dose-dependent anthelmintic activity against Pheretima posthuma. The leaf extract and flower extract (200-and 400 mg/kg b.w.) can decrease the painful sensation in mice. Leaf extracts and flower extracts displayed 57.69 and 50% reduction of diarrhea induced by castor oil in mice, respectively. The plant samples exhibited hypoglycemic effect and CNS anti-depressant effect in mice. Based on the possibility of bioactivity, the plant can be thoroughly examined to determine its potential efficacy and to support its traditional uses. Bangladesh J. Bot. 53(3): 475-485, 2024 (September)

Bryophyllum pinnatum methanolic extract and flavonoid-rich fraction regulate antioxidant/neurotransmitter levels in MSG-induced rat neurotoxicity

Introduction: Bryophyllum pinnatum (B. pinnatum/BP), a medicinal plant known for its diverse pharmacological properties, has been traditionally used for treating various ailments. This study investigated its potential therapeutic effects against MSG-induced oxidative stress and neurotoxicity in Wistar rats, employing both in vivo and in-silico approaches. Methods: Forty-eight adult Wistar rats (n=48) were divided into six groups: control group, MSG group, and treatment groups receiving BP extract and B.pinnatum flavonoid-rich fractions. Biochemical markers such as LDH, MDA, CAT, GST, and AChE were assessed. Neurotransmitter levels of glutamate and GABA were also measured. Molecular docking and MM GBSA analyses were conducted using Maestro 12.8v to evaluate the binding affinities of 10 B.pinnatum compounds with Nrf2 protein, NMDA receptor, and acetylcholinesterase. ADMET profiling was performed using SwissADME and ADMETlab 3.0. Results: MSG increased LDH and MDA levels significantly, while decreasing CAT, GST, and AChE levels, indicating oxidative stress and neurotoxicity. Treatment with B.pinnatum extracts and fractions mitigated these effects, restoring antioxidant enzymes/neurotransmitter levels and reducing lipid peroxidation. In silico studies showed B.pinnatum compounds exhibiting substantial binding affinities for Nrf2, NMDA receptor and acetylcholinesterase, correlating with their neuroprotective effects observed in vivo. ADMET profiling confirmed the drug-like properties of these compounds. Conclusions: B. pinnatum methanolic extract and its flavonoid-rich fraction demonstrated significant antioxidant and neuroprotective effects against MSG-induced toxicity in Wistar rats. There was significant difference in the activity levels of the flavonoid fractions as compared to the crude extract in LDH and AChE, however, the difference was only relative in MDA, CAT and GST.

Biological and phytochemical analysis of fractionated extracts of Ziziphus nummularia against pathogenic bacteria, oxidative stress and cytotoxicity

In modern medicine, synthetic drugs are predominant, yet they often pose health hazards. So, there is a need to find natural alternatives. Ziziphus nummularia (Burm. F.) Wight &amp; Arn., belongs to family Rhamnaceae, is well known for its traditional value such as its fruits have been used as natural appetizer and orally consumed around the world. This study investigated the phytochemical composition and bioactivity of crude and fractionated extracts from the stem bark of Ziziphus nummularia. Crude extracts were prepared using cold maceration, followed by partitioning based on polarity into n-hexane, chloroform, and ethyl acetate fractions. These extracts were subjected to phytochemical analysis and evaluated for antioxidant, antibacterial, and cytotoxic activities. The crude methanolic extract exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, with IC50 values of 136.49 μg/mL in DPPH and 78.9 μg/mL in ABTS assays. Antibacterial tests using the agar well diffusion method revealed that the methanolic extract, ethyl acetate, and chloroform fractions demonstrated broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against E. coli, K. pneumoniae, S. aureus, and S. epidermidis, with inhibition zones ranging from 0 to 8.43 ± 0.23 mm at 400 mg/mL. The brine shrimp lethality assay indicated significant cytotoxicity in the methanolic, ethyl acetate, and chloroform extracts, compared to the negligible effect of the n-hexane fraction. These findings highlight the potential of Z. nummularia as a source of bioactive compounds with therapeutic applications against infectious diseases, toxins, and oxidative stress. Further isolation of pure compounds and animal trials are recommended to explore its potential in drug discovery.

In Vitro and In Vivo Antiurolithic Effect of Betulinic Acid Obtained from Citharexylum mirianthum.

The study aimed to investigate the potential antiurolithic effects of extracts, fractions, and betulinic acid (BA) from Citharexylum mirianthum. In vitro analysis involved precipitating calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystals in urine. For in vivo studies, rats were divided into four groups: naive; vehicle; potassium citrate (KC); and BA. Urolithiasis was induced using ethylene glycol and ammonium chloride. After seven days, urine, blood, and kidney tissues were evaluated. The results showed that methanolic extract, hexane, dichloromethane, and ethyl acetate fractions, as well as BA, reduced CaOx crystal formation. In vivo, the vehicle-treated group exhibited reduced urinary volume and Na+ excretion, while the BA-treated group showed restored urinary volume and Na+ excretion similar to the naive group. BA also significantly reduced urinary monohydrate and dihydrate crystal formation, comparable to the KC group. Other urinary parameters remained unchanged, but plasma analysis revealed decreased Na+, K+, and Ca2+ in the KC group. Renal tissue analysis indicated reduced lipid hydroperoxides and increased reduced glutathione in all urolithiasis groups, with unchanged nitrite levels. BA treatment also improved renal corpuscle morphology. Overall, our findings demonstrate that treatment with BA effectively prevented kidney damage induced by EG+AC ingestion, thereby improving renal function in the urolithiasis model.

Investigation of Antifungal Action of Fractions C17H31NO15 Isolated from Artemisia herba-alba extract versus Isolated Aspergillus niger from Zee maize.

Plants are harmed by parasitic organisms, and toxic poisons are created. Phytopathogenic fungi create toxins that can severely harm plants' basic physiological functioning. Investigation of antifungal impact of various fractions of methanol extract of Artemisia herba-alba to Aspergillus niger as a plant pathogen. Artemisia herba-alba extract was purified using column chromatography, giving various antifungal fractions tested versus A. niger. The 6th fraction give the highest inhibition zone with a diameter of 5.4 cm and MIC 125.02 ± 4.9 μg/ml, which was identified using Mass spectroscopy, 1HNMR, Elemental analysis as well as IR testing, revealing the chemical formula of the purified fraction. Ultrastructure alteration of treated A. niger was examined versus control using the transmission electron microscope. Purified fraction has tested versus normal cell line with minimal cytotoxicity. These results revealed the possibility of using Artemisia herba-alba methanol extract as a promising antifungal versus phytopathogenic fungi, especially A. niger after more verification of results.

GC-MS analysis and antifungal potential of flower extract of Acacia nilotica subsp. Indica against Macrophomina phaseolina

Macrophomina phaseolina is a wide host ranged soil-borne fungal plant pathogen. It infects more than 500 host plant species belonging to 100 families. Many important oil-seed and leguminous crops are known to be attacked by this devastating plant pathogen. In the present study, antifungal potential of flowers of a leguminous tree Acacia nilotica subsp. indica, was assessed against this pathogen through bioassays guided fractionation. Initially, methanolic extracts of 1 %–5 % of leaf, flower, root-bark and stem-bark of the plant species under consideration were evaluated for their antifungal potential against the target pathogen. Among these, the best antifungal activity was shown by flower extract. The reduction in growth of the test fungal strain was 27–49 %, 4–40 % and 2–27 % due to flower, root-bark and leaf extracts, respectivey, over control. Flower extract was partitioned using n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and n-butanol as the solvents. Bioassays guided study of these fractions of methanolic extract of flower revealed that high antifungal potential was shown by n-hexane and chloroform fractions against M. phaseolina causing 26–53 % and 28–50 % decline in fungal biomass, respectively, as compared to that of control. GC-MS analysis of chloroform fraction revealed the presence of 27 compounds in this fraction. Among these cyclopentanol,-1-methyl (10.93 %) was the predominant compound followed by methyl, 4,4-dimethyl butanoate (7.04 %), 1-pentanol (6.80 %), 2-propanol, 1-cyclopropyl (6.11 %), 1H,imidazole-4-5-dihydro-2-methyl (5.93 %), trichloroethane (5.91 %), carbonic acid-ethyl hexyl ester (4.59 %), 1,4-butandiol,2,3-bis(methylene)- (4.54 %) and [S]-3,4-dimethyl pentanol (4.48 %).