Multiple Medicinal Properties Research Articles

Rhamnazin ameliorates 2, 3, 7, 8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-evoked testicular toxicity by restoring biochemical, spermatogenic and histological profile in male albino rats.

2,3,7,8 tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) is a potential environmental toxin that has the ability to affect male reproductive tract. Rhamnazin is a naturally present flavone that displays multiple medicinal properties. Therefore, the current study was designed to determine the mitigative role of rhamnazin against TCDD induced reproductive damage. 48 adult male albino rats were randomly separated into four groups: control, TCDD (10µgkg-1), TCDD + rhamnazin (10µgkg-1 + 5mgkg-1 respectively) and rhamnazin (5mgkg-1). The trial was conducted for 56days. TCDD intoxication notably affected superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GSR) and catalase (CAT) activities, besides reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations were augmented. TCDD administration also lowered sperm motility, viability, sperm number, while it augmented the sperm morphological (tail, neck/midpiece and head) anomalies. Moreover, it decreased the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and plasma testosterone. Moreover, TCDD reduced steroidogenic enzymes i.e., 17-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD), steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and 3-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) as well as B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) expressions, but increased the expressions of Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) and cysteine-aspartic acid protease (Caspase-3). Furthermore, TCDD exposure also induced histopathological anomalies in testicular tissues. However, the supplementation of rhamnazin recovered all the mentioned damages in the testicles. The outcomes revealed that rhamnazin can ameliorate TCDD induced reproductive toxicity due to its anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic and androgenic nature.

Mineral and phytochemical profiles of selected garlic (Allium sativum L.) cultivars

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is a versatile horticultural commodity with multiple medicinal properties. In this study, we determined the content of macroelements (K, Na, Ca, Mg, P) and microelements (Cu, Zn, Mn, Fe, Cr, Ni, Co, Pb and Cd), the content of phenolic acids (gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, caffeic acid) and L-ascorbic acid in selected cultivars of garlic (Bjetin, Eden Rose, Garpel, Havran, Mojmir, Novozamocky). Statistical analysis indicated, that the Bjetin is characterized mainly by a high content of minerals (Mn, Fe, Ca Co), while Garpel and Mojmir are characterized by higher levels of ferulic acid, gallic acid, and p-hydroxybenzoic acid. Novozamocky is characterized by a high content of chlorogenic acid. Positive correlations between Pb content and gallic acid, ferulic acid, and p-hydroxybenzoic acid content, and negative correlation between Pb content and chlorogenic acid content were determined.

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.

Comparative Analysis of Samsamani Vati/Guduchighana Vati of Competitive Ayurveda Pharmaceuticals of India

Guduchi/Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) is declared a national herb of India due to its multiple medicinal properties. Samsamani Vati is also known as Guduchi ghanavati (a concentrated form of decoction of Guduchi stem) the secondary Kalpala (formulation) derived from the primary Kwatha Kalpana (decoction). Samsamani Vati is freely distributed by the Ministry of AYUSH in all states and union territories of India as prophylaxis for COVID-19. The molecular docking of Tinocordicide - a constituent of Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia) showed significant interruption of the viral RBD and host ACE2 interactions. T. cordifolia, T. crispa, T. sinensis, T. smilacina, T. bakis, and T. sagittata are different species of Guduchi, whereas Tinospora crispa and T.sinensis are hepatotoxic. General people are aware of the use of Samsamani vati/ Guduchi Ghana vati/Giloy and purchase from leading Ayurveda medicine manufacturers in India. Tinosporaside is an immune-modulatory active compound as well as a cholinergic inhibitor. It is an attempt for compare analysis of Samsamani Vati/Guduchi Ghana vati used in the population for the prevention of COVID-19 of government supply and lead Pharmaceutical Company of India. The Samsamani Vati/Guduchi Ghana vati of lead Ayurveda Pharmaceutical and Government Supply. (Dabur, Zandu, Patanjali, Himalaya, Baidyanath and IMPCL) were purchased from the local market and put forth for analysis. Tinosporide is significantly detected in Patanjali, Zandu and IMPCL-manufactured Samsamani Vati, whereas a trace amount of bioactive compound in Dabur and not detected in Baidyanath. The analysis showed that no uniformity of Samsamani Vati/Guduchi Ghana Vati of the competitive brand of India. It is recommended to maintain uniformity of bioactive molecules not only for desired efficacy but also for safety.

Preparation of curcumin-loaded MPEG-PTMC nanoparticles: Physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity, and in vivo pharmacokinetic behavior

Curcumin (Cur), an antioxidant molecule, has multiple medicinal properties and displays therapeutic values. However, in some functional food applications, the incorporation of Cur is limited because of its poor solubility and inherent physicochemical instability. Herein, to address these issues, PEGylated poly (trimethylene carbonate) (MPEG-PTMC) was used as the polymeric carrier for fabricating the Cur loaded nanoparticles (MPEG-PTMC@Cur NPs). The MPEG-PTMC@Cur NPs had an average size of ∼130 nm. Importantly, after being incorporated in MPEG-PTMC@Cur NPs, the photochemical stability of Cur was significantly enhanced. The degradation rate of Cur was only about 15%. Furthermore, the MPEG-PTMC@Cur NPs exhibited improved DPPH scavenging ability (SC25 = 14.40 μg/mL) compared with that of the free Cur (SC25 > 30 μg/mL). Importantly, the pharmacokinetic study demonstrated that the oral relative bioavailability of MPEG-PTMC@Cur NPs was significantly improved. All these results support that MPEG-PTMC@Cur NPs could be an effective delivery system for Cur.

De Novo Transcriptome Sequencing of Codonopsis lanceolata for Identification of Triterpene Synthase and Triterpene Acetyltransferase.

Codonopsis lanceolata (Campanulaceae) is a perennial plant commonly known as the bonnet bellflower. This species is widely used in traditional medicine and is considered to have multiple medicinal properties. In this study, we found that shoots and roots of C. lanceolata contained various types of free triterpenes (taraxerol, β-amyrin, α-amyrin, and friedelin) and triterpene acetates (taraxerol acetate, β-amyrin acetate, and α-amyrin acetate). The content of triterpenes and triterpene acetates by GC analysis was higher in the shoot than in the roots. To investigate the transcriptional activity of genes involved in triterpenes and triterpene acetate biosynthesis, we performed de novo transcriptome analysis of shoots and roots of C. lanceolata by sequencing using the Illumina platform. A total of 39,523 representative transcripts were obtained. After functional annotation of the transcripts, the differential expression of genes involved in triterpene biosynthetic pathways was investigated. Generally, the transcriptional activity of unigenes in the upstream region (MVA and MEP pathway) of triterpene biosynthetic pathways was higher in shoots than in roots. Various triterpene synthases (2,3-oxidosqualene cyclase, OSC) participate to produce triterpene skeletons by the cyclization of 2,3-oxidosqualene. A total of fifteen contigs were obtained in annotated OSCs in the representative transcripts. Functional characterization of four OSC sequences by heterologous expression in yeast revealed that ClOSC1 was determined as taraxerol synthase, and ClOSC2 was a mixed-amyrin synthase producing α-amyrin and β-amyrin. Five putative contigs of triterpene acetyltransferases showed high homology to the lettuce triterpene acetyltransferases. Conclusively, this study provides the basis of molecular information, particularly for the biosynthesis of triterpenes and triterpene acetates in C. lanceolata.

Pharmacognostic Studies and Biological Activities of Limonia Acidissima

Plants are an important source of medicines and play a vital role in achieving the WHO’s goal of universal well-being. People are becoming aware of the medicinal value of natural needs. Among, many medicinal plants, Limonia acidissima L. which belong to Rutaceae family, emerged out to be one of the most valuable plants owing multiple medicinal properties. Wood apple or Limonia acidissima L. contains 15% citric acid, potassium, calcium and iron salt. The seed and pulp contain fats and protein. The present work was undertaken to lay down the physio-chemical evaluation, phytochemicals and biological parameters. Later the pulp powder of wood apple was extracted with and antidiabetic activity,where later two activities were performed by bioautography ethanol by Soxhlet method. The preliminary phytochemicals analysis revealed presence of all tested compounds like Alkaloids, Tannins, Phenolic compounds, Saponins, Steroids and flavonoids. When HPTLC was performed, plates were observed under UV Light and it gave characteristic banding pattern which is unique to Limonia acidissima L. The ethanolic extract of Limonia acidissima L. showed a good antibacterial, antioxidant method.

Water Lily (Nymphaea nouchali Burm. f): An Ancient Treasure of Food and Medicine

Pharmacognosy Research,2023,15,2,226-234.DOI:10.5530/pres.15.2.024Published:February 2023Type:Review ArticleAuthors:Basani Kiranmai, Mondi Sandhyarani, and Ashok Kumar Tiwari Author(s) affiliations:Basani Kiranmai1, 2, 3, Mondi Sandhyarani3, Ashok Kumar Tiwari1,2,* 1Centre for Natural Products and Traditional Knowledge, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Hyderabad, Telangana, INDIA. 2Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, INDIA. 3Centre for Pharmaceutical Science, Institute of Science and Technology, Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, Kukatpally, Hyderabad, Telangana, INDIA. Abstract:Nymphaea nouchali (Syn. Nymphaea stellata Willd.) from family Nymphaeaceae, is a species of perennial aquatic flowering plant with huge round floating leaves and rhizomes. It is well-known and prominent herb in Ayurveda and Siddha system of medicines with multiple medicinal properties. It comes from southern and eastern regions of Asia, and is a national blossom of Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Scientific investigation has revealed that it exhibits vast range of pharmacological actions, namely antihyperglycemic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, analgesic, antiinflammatory, antipyretic, antitumor, hepatoprotective, antiulcer, antihelmintic, antinociceptive, immunomodulatory activities etc. Polyphenols, flavonoids, sterols, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, protein, nymphasterol, nymphayol have been recognized as important factors in the medicinal effects of N. nouchali. The present review focuses on pharmacological and phytochemical investigation of N. nouchali. Keywords:Blue water lily, Nymphaea nouchali, Pharmacological actions, Phytochemistry.View:PDF (488.79 KB)

In Silico Analysis Reveals the Inhibitory Potential of Madecassic Acid against Entry Factors of SARS-CoV-2.

Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is the ongoing global health emergency caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection. The virus is highly contagious, affecting millions of people worldwide. SARS-CoV-2, with its trimeric spike glycoprotein, interacts with the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor and other co-receptors like basigin to invade the host cell. Moreover, certain host proteases like transmembrane serine proteases, furin, neuropilin 1 (NRP1), and endosomal cathepsins are involved in the priming of spike glycoproteins at the S1/S2 interface. This is critical for the entry of viral genome and its replication in the host cytoplasm. Vaccines and anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs have been developed to overcome the infection. Nonetheless, the frequent emergence of mutant variants of the virus has imposed serious concerns regarding the efficacy of therapeutic agents, including vaccines that were developed for previous strains. Thus, screening and development of pharmaceutical agents with multi-target potency could be a better choice to restrain SARS-CoV-2 infection. Madecassic acid (MDCA) is a pentacyclic triterpenoid found in Centella asiatica. It has multiple medicinal properties like anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic potential. However, its implication as an anti- SARS-CoV-2 agent is still obscure. Hence, in the present in silico study, the binding affinities of MDCA for spike proteins, their receptors, and proteases were investigated. Results indicated that MDCA interacts with ligand-binding pockets of the spike receptor binding domain, ACE2, basigin, and host proteases, viz. transmembrane serine proteinase, furin, NRP1, and endosomal cathepsins, with greater affinities. Moreover, the MDCA-protein interface was strengthened by prominent hydrogen bonds and several hydrophobic interactions. Therefore, MDCA could be a promising multi-target therapeutic agent against SARS-CoV-2 infection.

A REVIEW ON POTENTIAL OF MEDICINAL PLANT: LIMONIA ACIDISSIMA L.

Plant is an important source of medicine and plays a key role in achieving objectives of WHO for wellbeing of all mankind. People are getting aware about natural products, to fulfil the requirement of medicinal values, Limonia acidissima
 L. of family Rutaceae, emerged out to be one of the most valuable plant owing multiple medicinal properties. The main objective of the present study is to recognize and identify different chemical constituents of the plant, which are important in the field of medicine. Hence in this article, the attempt has been made to study literature of different medicinal values, Pharmacological activities and the Ethnobotanical uses of Limonia acidissima L. The complied information of the plant can be used in various medicinal field.

Ginger Compress Therapy – A Painless Solution for Kidney Failure Patients

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most outgrowing diseases of all, and globally, about 10% of the world's population is affected. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) occurs when the kidney can no longer perform its function to full capacity. There are currently two treatment options for CKD: dialysis and transplantation. Both existing treatment options have their demerits, including high cost, pain, sleep disturbances, restlessness, graft rejection, and much more. Zingiber officinale, also commonly known as ginger, is one of the most commonly used household herbs and a potential medicinal herb. It contains various phytochemicals such as essential oils, phenolic compounds, alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponin, tannin, protein, and carbohydrates. Ginger has been reported for multiple medicinal properties such as antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immune-modulatory, anti-hypertensive, anti-arthritic, hepatoprotective, and nephroprotective. The nephroprotective properties of ginger are less explored than their other therapeutic properties. Few research data suggest that the aqueous extracts of ginger lowered blood glucose, serum, urea, and creatinine levels in diabetic-induced rats. It also helped to restore the changes in the kidney due to toxicity. Thus, it protects renal tissues from structural damage caused by hypoglycemia, inhibits cholesterol absorption due to oxidative stress, and also boosts the kidney's defense mechanism. The in silico work performed on 64 phytochemicals against the Vitamin D3 receptor target protein of CKD showed the binding efficiency of phytochemicals against this target. Diterpene (Lactone) has shown a better binding score with optimal ADMET properties. Ginger compress therapy is a very simple treatment process, using pieces of ginger boiled in hot water, after which a towel is soaked in this ginger water and spread over the lower portion of the patient's back for around 30 minutes. After this, the area must be rubbed with a few drops of gingelly oil. Currently, many Siddha and Ayurveda practitioners in India and many other countries use this therapy to cure numerous patients. Deeper research into this therapy could enhance efficiency and provide a scientific approach.

Evaluation of Subchronic Toxicity and Genotoxicity of Ethanolic Extract of Aster glehni Leaves and Stems

Aster glehni, a traditional plant on Ulleung Island in the Republic of Korea, has been recognized for its multiple medicinal properties. However, potential toxicity and safety analyses of A. glehni have not been previously investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the safety profile of ethanolic extract of A. glehni leaves and stems (EAG) in terms of genotoxicity and subchronic oral animal toxicity under OECD guidelines and GLP conditions. Toxicological assessments were performed at doses of 1,250, 2,500, and 5,000 mg/kg/day in a 13-week oral repeated-dose toxicity study of EAG in male and female SD rats. In addition, an Ames test, an in vitro mammalian chromosomal aberration test, and a micronucleus test were performed. No toxicological changes in clinical signs, body weights, water and food consumption, urinalysis, hematology, clinical biochemistry, gross findings, and histopathological examinations were observed in subchronic oral animal toxicity. In addition, EAG gave negative results when evaluated using in vitro and in vivo genotoxicity tests. In conclusion, the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) of EAG was considered to be 5,000 mg/kg/day, and no target organs were identified in both sexes of rats. EAG was also classified as nonmutagenic and nonclastogenic in genotoxicity testing. Collectively, these results show a lack of general toxicity and genotoxicity for EAG that supports clinical work for development as a herbal medicine.

Impact of polyphenols extracted from Tricholoma matsutake on UVB-induced photoaging in mouse skin.

Despite Tricholoma matsutake has been used as natural health products with multiple medicinal properties, detailed information about its polyphenolic composition as sources of anti-photoaging agents remains to be determined. To investigate the impact of polyphenols extracted from Tricholoma matsutake (TME) on Ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced skin photoaging. Various factors of oxidative stress and inflammation as well as histological and immunohistochemical analysis in the mouse dorsal skin were determined after UVB radiation. Topical administration with TME suppressed the UVB-induced skin thickness, wrinkles and erythema, and increased skin collagen content. Furthermore, TME decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, upregulated glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) activities and inhibited the expression of IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α in mice irradiated with UVB. TME could reduce UVB-induced p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) phosphorylation and effectively inhibited the activity of the transcriptional factor nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), thereby reducing the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression, which is an important mediator of inflammatory cascade leading to the inflammatory response. Our data demonstrated that TME had various beneficial effects on UVB-induced skin photoaging due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, and it might be exploited as a promising natural product in skin care, anti-photoaging and the therapeutic intervention of skin disorders related to both oxidative stress and inflammation.

Multifunctional dynamic toolbox: cordycepin plays a therapeutic role in various disorders

Cordyceps are edible medicinal mushrooms that contain therapeutic values and are used to treat various disorders in many parts of the world. There are two species of Cordyceps commonly used in traditional medicine, viz. Ophiocordyceps (Cordyceps) sinensis and Cordyceps militaris. Cordycepin is a purine nucleoside and a derivative of adenosine that is derived from these mushrooms and possesses multiple medicinal properties. These include immuno-booster, antioxidative, antitumour and antimicrobial properties. The present mini-review discusses the therapeutic role of cordycepin nucleoside through the systematic approach in various disorders with the help of conceptual simplified diagrammatic representations.

In Vitro Micropropagation of Lilium candidum Bulb by Application of Multiple Hormone Concentrations Using Plant Tissue Culture Technique

The multiplication efficacy by bulb is low and the plantlets are more susceptible to disease, therefore, there is a need to develop a protocol for its propagation. Lilium candidum is listed in the saitma prefecture Red Data Book as a critically endangered plant and rescuing information regarding its micro-propagation is rather limited. On this regard, the application of in vitro micropropagtion procedure might help to obtain large numbers of uniform plants of endangered species of Lilium. Dried lilies are a rich source of fiber and also rich in sodium and carbs. Lily bulbs have proteins and starch and also small quantities of iron, calcium, phosphorous, and vitamin B1, B2, C. The health benefits of the lily for the heart are well known on account of the active cardiac glycosides as well as the flavonoids which tend to stimulate the arteries and can cause them to dilute. Another one of the therapeutic uses of the lily flower is in the case of treating burns and preventing the formation of scar tissue. One of the main health benefits of the lily flower is that it helps regulating the heart rate there by allowing the heart to function more efficiently and regular. Having multiple medicinal properties we decided to cultivate Lilium candidum using plant tissue culture so farming can be increased using this cost efficient techniques. In this research, we have studied various Effect of different concentration of BAP and NAA on the initiation of Lilium candidum from bulb and IBA, IAA and NAA on the rooting of shoots of Lilium Candidum.

Moringa oleifera in South Africa: A review on its production, growing conditions and consumption as a food source

Moringa oleifera (moringa) trees excel mainly in tropical and sub-tropical regions and are known to thrive in a wide range of soil types. The recent rise in moringa production in various agro-ecological zones of South Africa could be attributed to its multiple benefits, including nutritional and medicinal properties. Since its introduction as a cultivated crop, there has been a growing interest from farmers, researchers and government on various aspects of the tree such as its morphology, chemistry, growing conditions, production, processing and utilisation. We reviewed the work done on moringa within the South African context in terms of production, growing conditions and cultivation practices. The involvement of government departments on moringa-oriented activities and its consumption as food were also reviewed. In addition, gaps were outlined on its utilisation that need to be addressed, and recommendations provided on what could be done to ensure successful production of moringa in South Africa.Significance:
 
 This review highlights moringa research that has been done on growing conditions, production and human consumption in South Africa.
 The review further addresses the potential commercialisation of moringa and existing knowledge gaps.

Increase of diosgenin in fenugreek seedlings by cobalt nanoparticles

Diosgenin is the most important steroidal saponin in fenugreek, with multiple medicinal properties. Increasing the production of diosgenin in fenugreek requires stimulating the production of saponins. The production of saponins or secondary metabolites is affected by biological and non-biological elicitors. The main aims of this study were investigate whether cobalt nanoparticles as an abiotic elicitor in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium affect produced diosgenin in roots and shoots of fenugreek, and comparison of produced diosgenin between the shoots and roots. Experimental treatments were different concentrations of cobalt nanoparticles (0, 100, 200 and 300 μM l−1) in the MS medium in vitro, and the treatments’ effects were examined in a statistical model of a completely randomized design with four replications. Experimental variables included some components of fenugreek vegetative growth, production of diosgenin in shoots and roots, as well as expression of genes involved in diosgenin biosynthesis pathway (Squalene monooxygenase (SQS), Cycloartenol shynthase (CYC), 26_o_beta_glucosidase (BGL). The most important results showed that first the maximum level of produced diosgenin in roots, and later in shoots was obtained in a MS medium without micro cobalt which contain only 300 μM l−1 of cobalt nanoparticles. The results demonstrated that the enhancement of diosgenin was associated with increased expression of the genes related with diosgenin biosynthesis pathway. The diosgenin was elevated in fenugreek following high concentration of cobalt nanoparticles application.

Morin Provides Neuroprotection in a Model of Cerebral Infarction Via Nrf-2 Signaling Pathway

Cerebral infarction, also known as ischemic stroke, is a disorder of blood supply in the local brain tissue and the second leading cause of death worldwide. It is important to develop effective drugs to treat cerebral infarction. Morin (3,5,7,2′, 4′-pentahydroxyflavone) is a bioactive flavonol that has multiple medicinal properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-invasive, antitumor, and antiangiogenic properties. However, its potential effect on ischemic stroke as a potent neuroprotective and cardioprotective agent remains unknown. In this study, we constructed a rat model of cerebral infarction and shown morin to be neuroprotective in this model. Additionally, morin inhibited nerve cell apoptosis and cerebral infarction induced oxidative stress in brain tissue. Our data further confirmed that morin provides neuroprotection in cerebral infarction via upregulation of the downstream proteins of Nrf2 pathway. We therefore suggest morin as a promising therapeutic drug for the treatment of cerebral infarction.

A Prospective Review on Phyto-pharmacological Aspects of Vitex negundo Linn

Background: Vitex negundo Linn. commonly known as five leave chase tree is an ethnobotanically important drug in traditional system of medicine. The plant is widely distributed in India, China and other Asian and American countries. Objective: The review aims at presenting comprehensive information with respect to ethnopharmacological relevance and recent findings on phytochemical and biological activities of Vitex negundo. Method: Literature was collected from various sources such as pubmed, scopus, science direct, and others. Results: Extracts and secondary metabolites of this plant, particularly those from roots and leaves, possess useful pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antioxidant, antimicrobial, galactagogue, antigastric, antiflatulant, antiparasitic, analgesic, hepatoprotective and antihypertensive, some of which have been validated scientifically. All parts of the plant especially leave and roots contain a large number of bioactive phytoconstituents including flavonoids, iridoids, lignans, volatile oil, terpenes, coumarins, phenolic and steroidal compounds which impart multiple medicinal properties. Vitexin, isovitexin, viridifol, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid and isochlorogenic acid are the main components. Conclusion: The review emphasizes the medicinal importance of Vitex negundo and its bioactive constituents in the traditional system of medicine.

Glycyrrhetinic acid alleviates acute lung injury by PI3K/AKT suppressing macrophagic Nlrp3 inflammasome activation

Glycyrrhetinic acid (GA), a triterpene saponins, has been widely proven to have multiple medicinal properties. Our study aimed to figure out the protective effect of GA on acute lung injury (ALI) and the underlying mechanism. The LPS-induced ALI model mice were intratracheally administrated with 10 mg/kg LPS. Pretreatment with GA (10, 20, 40 mg/kg, i.g.) ameliorated acute lung injury pathological damage, macrophage infiltration and lung edema. In the lung tissue, immunofluorescence (IF) and Immunohistochemistry (IHC) were performed to detect macrophage Nod-like receptor 3 (Nlrp3) inflammasome activation and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) protein expression. In macrophages, the co-localization of Nlrp3 with caspase-1 and Nlrp3 with ASC were assessed by IF. The translational and transcriptional level of Nlrp3, cle-caspase-1 and apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing CARD (ASC), were examined by Western blot and Real time PCR (RT-PCR). The protein expression of Cle-caspase-1 was remarkably suppressed via sh-Nlrp3 transfection compared with LPS groups. GA notably attenuated ALI by inhibiting Nlrp3 formation and activation. Furthermore, GA downregulated the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the phosphorylation level of PI3K and AKT in macrophages. These findings indicate that GA ameliorated ALI in mice by suppressing the activation of Nlrp3 inflammasome which may be mediated by ROS-PI3K/AKT pathway. GA may serve as a promising agent for the attenuation of ALI-related inflammation and pathology.