Plant Phytochemicals Research Articles

In Vitro Bioassay and In silico Pharmacokinetic Characteristics of Xanthium strumarium Plant Extract as Possible Acaricidal Agent.

Effective management strategies against tick infestations are necessary because tickborne diseases represent serious hazards to the health of humans and animals worldwide. The aim of this study was to examine the larvicidal and ovicidal properties of Xanthium strumarium extract against a notorious tick species, Rhipicephalus microplus. The maceration method was used to prepare the ethanolic extract of X. strumarium. The extract was then used in an adult immersion test (AIT) and larval packet test (LPT) to asses the plant's toxicity. To elucidate the mode of action, molecular modeling and docking studies were conducted. ADMET analysis was then carried out to find out the drug-likeness profiles of the plant phytochemicals. Significant death rates and egg inhibition were found at different extract doses using the larval packet test (LPT) and adult immersion test (AIT). A concentration-dependent impact was observed at a concentration of 40 mg/mL, which resulted in the maximum larval mortality (92 ± 2.646) and egg inhibition (77.057 ± 2.186). Additionally, the potency of the extract against R. microplus was determined by calculating its fatal concentrations (LC50, LC90, and LC99). A three-dimensional model of the R. microplus octopamine receptor was created, and docking studies showed that the receptor and possible ligands, most notably Xanthatin and Xanthosin, interacted well. The potential of compounds as tick control agents was highlighted by their pharmacokinetic characteristics and toxicity profiles, as revealed by drug-likeness and ADMET studies. Molecular dynamic simulations further demonstrated the stability of the protein-ligand complex, indicating the consistent association between the ligand and the target protein. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the potential use of X. strumarium extract and its compounds as larvicidal and ovicidal agents against R. microplus, paving the way for further research on tick control strategies.

Plant-mediated gold nanoparticles in cancer therapy: exploring anti-cancer mechanisms, drug delivery applications, and future prospects

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) exhibit great promise in cancer therapy and drug delivery due to their unique physicochemical properties. The utilization of plant extracts and phytochemicals for the synthesis of AuNPs offers a simple, rapid, eco-friendly, and cost-effective alternative. This review provides an in-depth analysis of the role of plant-mediated AuNPs in cancer treatment, focusing on their core mechanisms, drug delivery applications, and future potential. It emphasizes the advantages of green synthesis methods for cancer therapy, detailing the processes involved and highlighting various plants used for nanoparticle biosynthesis. The review also explores the anti-cancer effects of plant-mediated AuNPs, such as their ability to selectively target cancer cells and induce apoptosis, supported by both in vitro and in vivo studies. Additionally, the application of these nanoparticles in targeted drug delivery for cancer therapy is examined. The review addresses biocompatibility and toxicity concerns, providing insights into the safety of these nanoparticles. Future research directions and challenges are discussed to overcome current limitations and maximize their clinical applicability. In summary, plant-mediated AuNPs offer a sustainable and effective approach for cancer therapy and drug delivery, with their green synthesis and diverse anti-cancer properties highlighting their potential. Further research is essential to fully realize their clinical benefits.

Exploring the Therapeutic Potential for Breast Cancer of Phytochemicals and Secondary Metabolites in Marjoram, Thyme, and Persimmon

Background/Objectives: Breast cancer is the most common cause of death in women worldwide and the most commonly diagnosed cancer. Although several therapeutic approaches are widely used against breast cancer, their adverse effects often lead to symptoms severely affecting the quality of life. Alternative methods have been explored to reduce these adverse effects, and nutraceuticals have yielded promising results. This review will discuss mechanisms of action and potential applications against breast cancer of some nutraceuticals, specifically marjoram, thyme, and persimmon leaves. Methods: A systematic search was conducted across the public databases of PubMed, PubChem, and Google Scholar, with a specific focus on the plant extracts and phytochemicals of interest, as well as the anticarcinogenic mechanisms. Results: Ethnopharmacological and biochemical evidence support the anticarcinogenic role of marjoram, thyme, and persimmon. Numerous phytochemicals contained in these herbs’ extracts, like terpenes and flavonoids, possess remarkable potential to effectively treat breast cancer. Discussion: The phytochemicals contained in the reviewed nutraceuticals target the main cellular pathways involved in cell growth and disrupted in carcinogenesis, such as Nf-κB, MAPK/p38, TNF-α/IL-1β, and PI3K/Akt. The mechanisms of action of these compounds can successfully limit the abnormal growth and proliferation of cancerous breast cells. Conclusions: The potential use of the phytochemicals discussed in this review, either alone or in combination, may offer a valid alternative to chemotherapy against breast cancer with virtually no adverse effects, and further research on these molecules may lead to the identification of additional chemo-preventative and chemotherapeutic candidates.

Plant derived bioactive compounds for the treatment of neurodegeneration and neuroimmune disorders associated with the complement system

The complement system is a key component of the innate immune system that mediates the clearance of pathogens, apoptotic cells, and cellular debris. However, the complement system also has diverse roles in the central nervous system (CNS), where it regulates synaptic pruning, neural plasticity, and neuroinflammation. Dysregulation of the complement system has been implicated in various neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, stroke, and traumatic brain injury. In these conditions, excessive or chronic activation of the complement system may lead to synaptic loss, neuronal damage, immune dysregulation, and inflammation, which leads to exacerbating the disease’s progression and severity. Moreover, the complement system may interact with infectious agents that invade the CNS, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, and modulate their pathogenicity and host response. Therefore, understanding the complex interplay between the complement system and the CNS is crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies to prevent or treat neurodegenerative and neuroimmune disorders. Natural compounds, such as plant extracts, phytochemicals, and nutraceuticals, have emerged as promising candidates for modulating the complement system and its effects on the CNS. These compounds may exert anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory effects by regulating the expression of various complement components and pathways. In this review, we summarized the current knowledge on the roles of the complement system in human neurodegenerative disorders and the benefits of natural compounds for complement-targeted therapy.

Role of Plant Phytochemicals: Resveratrol, Curcumin, Luteolin and Quercetin in Demyelination, Neurodegeneration, and Epilepsy.

Polyphenols are an important group of biologically active compounds present in almost all food sources of plant origin and are primarily known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidative capabilities. Numerous studies have indicated their broad spectrum of pharmacological properties and correlations between their increased supply in the human diet and lower prevalence of various disorders. The positive effects of polyphenols application are mostly discussed in terms of cardiovascular system well-being. However, in recent years, they have also increasingly mentioned as prophylactic and therapeutic factors in the context of neurological diseases, being able to suppress the progression of such disorders and soothe accompanying symptoms. Among over 8000 various compounds, that have been identified, the most widely examined comprise resveratrol, curcumin, luteolin and quercetin. This review focuses on in vitro assessments, animal models and clinical trials, reflecting the most actual state of knowledge, of mentioned polyphenols' medicinal capabilities in epilepsy, demyelinating and neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system.

Unveiling the Longevity Potential of Natural Phytochemicals: A Comprehensive Review of Active Ingredients in Dietary Plants and Herbs.

Ancient humans used dietary plants and herbs to treat disease and to pursue eternal life. Today, phytochemicals in dietary plants and herbs have been shown to be the active ingredients, some of which have antiaging and longevity-promoting effects. Here, we summarize 210 antiaging phytochemicals in dietary plants and herbs, systematically classify them into 8 groups. We found that all groups of phytochemicals can be categorized into six areas that regulate organism longevity: ROS levels, nutrient sensing network, mitochondria, autophagy, gut microbiota, and lipid metabolism. We review the role of these processes in aging and the molecular mechanism of the health benefits through phytochemical-mediated regulation. Among these, how phytochemicals promote longevity through the gut microbiota and lipid metabolism is rarely highlighted in the field. Our understanding of the mechanisms of phytochemicals based on the above six aspects may provide a theoretical basis for the further development of antiaging drugs and new insights into the promotion of human longevity.

Improving the Productivity and Physiological Characteristics of Lettuce Plants Using Spraying Calcium as a Nanofertilizer

Implementing nanofertilizers in cultivation to enhance food security is important and gaining great significance, as they have good properties to improve plant production, phytochemicals, and nutrient efficiency and thereby meet the demands of the increasing world population for food. This work demonstrated the impact of calcium carbonate nanoparticles (Ca-NPs) and Ca bulk at three concentrations (0, 100, and 200 mg L−1) on growth, productivity, photosynthetic pigments, phytochemical content, antioxidant activity enzymes, minerals, toxicity, and genomic DNA of lettuce plants. In this regard, Ca-NPs at a concentration of 200 mg L−1 reinforced the vegetative growth characteristics of lettuce plants, increasing head length by 15.7 and 19.2%, head diameter by 20.3 and 19.9%, head fresh weight by 54.4 and 52.9%, and production per hectare by 54.7 and 52.8% as compared to the control during the two growing seasons. Furthermore, the percentages of total chlorophyll (62.6 and 59.5%), carotenoids (48.4 and 56.5%), total phenolics (63.6 and 65.7%), total indoles (39.4 and 36.4%), vitamin C (39.7 and 39.6%), antioxidant activity (57.8 and 53.7%), nitrogen (70.5 and 67.5%), phosphorus (120 and 110.5%), potassium (33.0 and 33.2%), and calcium (67.14 and 63.2%) were also increased compared with the control during two consecutive growing seasons. Additionally, Ca-NPs and Ca bulk had an impact on the plants’ genomic DNA compared to the control. In addition, lettuce plants treated with Ca-NPs were proven to be nontoxic and safe for humans by using the Microtox 500 analyzer.

Phytochemical variability of selected medicinal plants from different agro-climatic zones in Kenya

Medicinal properties of plants are a factor of their phytochemical content and profile. Agro-climatic factors such as temperature, sunlight, water availability, and soil composition can influence the profile of bioactive phytochemicals in plants and hence their medicinal potential. The study investigated the phytochemical variability in leaf extracts of selected medicinal plants, mango, guava, and avocado, from different agro-climatic zones in Kenya. Fresh healthy leaves were sampled from two hundred and twenty-seven mango (83), guava (85), and avocado (59) accessions in nine different geographical areas. Methanol extracts of the leaves were prepared and assayed for total phenol content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity. The TPC and TFC distribution in the extracts did not correlate with the agro-climate zones. However, patterns were observed attributable to geographical and specific agro-climatic parameters. Further, correlation analyses showed that specific agro-climatic parameters significantly affected TPC and TFC. Specifically, guava TPC, avocado TPC, and mango TFC had a moderately negative correlation with rainfall and soil moisture. Mango TFC had a moderate correlation with altitude and temperature. However, none of the correlations was high (r ≥ 0.5), suggesting the effect of other confounding factors. No discernible trend was observed with the antioxidant properties. Though some geographical patterns and correlations with agro-climatic parameters were established in the study, TPC, TFC, and antioxidant activity and agro-climatic zones may not be conclusively used to characterize these medicinal plants. Future studies may narrow on specific bioactive molecules and specific agro-climatic parameters.

Discovery of New Natural Phytocompounds: The Modern Tools to Fight Against Traditional Bacterial Pathogens.

Ongoing competition between disease-causing bacteria and human hosts has resulted in the discovery of a wide array of antibacterials. The advent of antibacterials ushered in a promising period in the realm of microbiology, but its brilliance was short-lived and soon diminished. The excessive and incorrect use of antibacterials results in limited selection pressure on the targeted microorganisms, which in turn promotes the evolution of microbes instead of killing them. Consequently, antibacterial resistance has developed and given rise to strains that are resistant to many drugs, leading to a significant increase in mortality rates. The current review delves into the potential of novel natural phytocompounds as innovative solutions to combat these potential bacterial threats. The review begins by showcasing the modus operandi of conventional antibacterial drugs followed by addressing the mechanisms of resistance to antibacterial agents, which have significantly lowered the efficacy of conventional treatments. In contrast, the review explores the mechanism of antibacterial activity of plant-derived phytochemicals, unraveling the various ways in which natural compounds interact with bacterial targets. Furthermore, the review examines the synergism between plant phytochemicals and conventional antibiotics, showcasing the efficacy of this combinatorial approach in overcoming resistance. The review concludes by summarizing the current research and offering valuable insights into challenges in the use of plant phytochemicals as antibacterial therapeutics. This comprehensive overview reinforces the promise of incorporating modern scientific tools with traditional phytotherapy to develop effective strategies against resistant bacterial pathogens.

Effect of Phyto Constitutes of <i>Ayurveda</i> and <i>Siddha</i> Herbs on SARS-CoV-2/CoVID-19 Management by Modulating the Human Gut Microbiome

The therapeutic plants used in Ayurveda and Siddha medicine primarily function as immunomodulators to combat viral infection. The majority of the Indian states adopted an integrative approach to the treatment strategy for COVID-19 infection during the COVID-19 outbreak. A large percentage of Indians consume Ayurvedic and Siddha herbs as preventative medication or immune boosters during the COVID outbreak. ACE-2 receptor, Mpro, Nsp15, endoribonuclease, ACE-2-RBD interface, RBD complex, helicase inhibitors, and ACE-2-RBD interface are the main targets of the phytochemicals of medicinal plants, which also have the potential to limit their action and lower infection rates. The phytonutrients also preserve the permeability of the gut epithelial membrane and improve gut barrier proteins including occludin, Zo-1, and claudin. The phytonutrients also help probiotic bacteria flourish, such as Faecalibacterium, Rikenellaceae, Lactobacillus and Lachnospiraceae, which may lower proinflammatory cytokines and improve immunological function. A small number of opportunistic bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumonia, co-infect with the SARS-CoV-2 virus and increase the frequency of hospital stays and severity of the illness. The co-infections or secondary infections may be reduced by the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities of phytochemicals.

Comparative antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of Nigella sativa flower, leaf, stem, and seed derived silver nanoparticles

This study was aimed to synthesize biogenic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Nigella sativa (N. sativa) plant extracts as bio-reductant. The fabricated nanoparticles were characterized by UV–visible, FTIR, and XRD. The extracts and AgNPs were then evaluated for their antioxidant and antimicrobial potentials using DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay and agar well diffusion assay correspondingly. The color change from pale yellow to tan brownish confirmed the fabrication of nanoparticles. The broad peak from 420 to 430 in the UV–Visible spectrum also confirmed AgNPs formation. In XRD spectrum the peaks indices (111), (200), (220), and (311) belonging to 2θ values of 38.101, 44.370, 64.179, and 77.549 indicated the presence of silver crystals (JCPDS file no. 00-001-1167). The presence of organic functional groups in the FTIR spectra confirmed the involvement of plant phytochemicals in fabrication of nanoparticles. Comparatively strong antioxidant potential was recorded for silver nanoparticles in comparison to parental extract. The lowest IC50 recorded was in the case flower based AgNPs was 70 µl where it corresponding crude extract resulted in IC50 of 910 µl. Highest IC50 was recorded for stem extract based NPs (100 µl). The antifungal potential of AgNPs from flower was high (24 mm) and that of the stem extract-based NPs was low (19 mm) whereas the antibacterial potential of the stem and seed extract-based extract was comparable however, the leaf and flower-based extract-based NPs were also, substantial. It was concluded from the results that all the whole Nigella sativa plant contained the reductant phytochemicals which be effectively used to fabricate NPs of the desired sizes. The fabricated NPs also exhibited good antioxidant and antimicrobial properties and can be considered as alternative drugs subjected to further verifications of the results in animal model.

Role of Phytochemicals in Treatment of Aging and Cancer: Focus on Mechanism of FOXO3 Activation.

There have been many studies reporting that the regular consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with reduced risks of cancer and age-related chronic diseases. Recent studies have demonstrated that reducing reactive oxygen species and inflammation by phytochemicals derived from natural sources can extend lifespans in a range of model organisms. Phytochemicals derived from fruits and vegetables have been known to display both preventative and suppressive activities against various types of cancer via in vitro and in vivo research by interfering with cellular processes critical for tumor development. The current challenge lies in creating tailored supplements containing specific phytochemicals for individual needs. Achieving this goal requires a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms through which phytochemicals affect human health. In this review, we examine recently (from 2010 to 2024) reported plant extracts and phytochemicals with established anti-aging and anti-cancer effects via the activation of FOXO3 transcriptional factor. Additionally, we provide an overview of the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which these molecules exert their anti-aging and anti-cancer effects in specific model systems. Lastly, we discuss the limitations of the current research approach and outline for potential future directions in this field.

Recent advances on anti-diabetic potential of pigmented phytochemicals in foods and medicinal plants

Recent advances on anti-diabetic potential of pigmented phytochemicals in foods and medicinal plants

A Review of Botanical Extracts with Repellent and Insecticidal Activity and Their Suitability for Managing Mosquito-Borne Disease Risk in Mexico.

Among the main arboviruses affecting public health in tropical regions are dengue, zika, and chikungunya, transmitted mainly by mosquitoes of the Aedes genus, especially Aedes aegypti. In recent years, outbreaks have posed major challenges to global health, highlighting the need for integrated and innovative strategies for their control and prevention. Prevention strategies include the elimination of vectors and avoiding mosquito bites; this can be achieved through the use of bioinsecticides and repellents based on plant phytochemicals, as they offer sustainable, ecological, and low-cost alternatives. Mexico has a variety of plants from which both extracts and essential oils have been obtained which have demonstrated significant efficacy in repelling and/or killing insect vectors. This review examines the current knowledge on plant species found in Mexico which are promising options concerning synthetic compounds in terms of their repellent and insecticidal properties against mosquitoes of the genus Aedes and that are friendly to the environment and health.

Intrinsic and Extrinsic Factors Associated with Hair Graying (Canities) and Therapeutic Potential of Plant Extracts and Phytochemicals

This review aims to gain insight into the major causes of hair graying (canities) and how plant-derived extracts and phytochemicals could alleviate this symptom. Research articles on human hair graying were searched and selected using the PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. We first examined the intrinsic and extrinsic factors associated with hair graying, such as the reduced capacity of melanin synthesis and transfer, exhaustion of melanocyte stem cells (MSCs) and melanocytes, genetics and epigenetics, race, gender, family history, aging, oxidative stress, stress hormones, systematic disorders, nutrition, smoking, alcohol consumption, lifestyle, medications, and environmental factors. We also examined various plants and phytochemicals that have shown a potential to interfere with the onset or progression of human hair graying at different levels from in vitro studies to clinical studies: the extract of Polygonum multiflorum and its major components, 2,3,5,4′-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-D-glucoside and emodin; the extract of Eriodictyon angustifolium and its major flavonoid compounds, hydroxygenkwanin, sterubin, and luteolin; the extracts of Adzuki beans (Vigna angularis), Fuzhuan brick tea (Camellia sinensis), and Gynostemma pentaphyllum; bixin, a carotenoid compound found in Bixa orellana; and rhynchophylline, an alkaloid compound found in certain Uncaria species. Experimental evidence supports the notion that certain plant extracts and phytochemicals could alleviate hair graying by enhancing MSC maintenance or melanocyte function, reducing oxidative stress due to physiological and environmental influences, and managing the secretion and action of stress hormones to an appropriate level. It is suggested that hair graying may be reversible through the following tactical approaches: selective targeting of the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)–microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) axis, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), or the norepinephrine–β2 adrenergic receptor (β2AR)–protein kinase A (PKA) signaling pathway.

A Thorough Examination of Peltophorum pterocarpum Phytochemicals in Network Pharmacology-Based Management of Acne Vulgaris.

Introduction Acne vulgaris is a common skin problem caused by inflammation of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles as a result of hormonal fluctuations, bacteria, and overproduction of oil. The plant Peltophorum pterocarpum (P. pterocarpum) has been investigated for possible medical uses. Its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant qualities are well recognised, and they may be applied to treat several diseases. This study investigates the plant's phytochemicals for their effectiveness in treating acne. Methods The Indian Medicinal Plants, Phytochemistry and Therapeutics (IMPPAT) database was utilised to extract the phytochemicals from P. pterocarpum. The absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) analysis was conducted using the online tool SwissADME. The SwissTargetPrediction tool determines the potential targets of these phytochemicals. Targets for acne have been identified using the Open Targets Platform database. The common targets of P. pterocarpum and acne were identified using the Venn diagram drawing tool Venny 2.1.0, and a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was built using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins (STRING) database. Following that, hub genes were identified by Cytoscape 3.10.2. The web tool ShinyGO 0.80 has enabled simpler evaluation of enrichment analysis for these hub genes. Results Five genes were shown to be key targets because they are directly engaged in the relaxin signalling pathway by pathway analysis: epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and various matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) (MMP1, MMP2, MMP9, and MMP13). The phytochemicals found in P. pterocarpum, including quercetin, rhamnetin, hirsutidin, and (+)-leucocyanidin, target these key genes. Conclusion This study highlights the potential of P. pterocarpum as a multi-target therapeutic agent for acne vulgaris. By targeting key genes in the relaxin signalling pathway, the phytochemicals from P. pterocarpum present a promising approach for acne management.

Regulatory Mechanisms of Natural Active Ingredients and Compounds on Keratinocytes and Fibroblasts in Mitigating Skin Photoaging.

The mechanism underlying skin photoaging remains elusive because of the intricate cellular and molecular changes that contribute to this phenomenon, which have yet to be elucidated. In photoaging, the roles of keratinocytes and fibroblasts are vital for maintaining skin structure and elasticity. But these cells can get photo-induced damage during photoaging, causing skin morphological changes. Recently, the function of natural active ingredients in treating and preventing photoaging has drawn more attention, with researches often focusing on keratinocytes and fibroblasts. We searched for studies published from 2007 to January 2024 in the Web of Science, PubMed, and ScienceDirect databases through the following keywords: natural plant, natural plant products or phytochemicals, traditional Chinese Medicine or Chinese herbal, plant extracts, solar skin aging, skin photoaging, and skin wrinkling. This review conducted the accordance of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines. In total, 87 researches were included in this review (Figure 1). In keratinocytes, natural compounds may primarily regulate signal pathways such as the NF-κB, MAPK, PI3K/AKT, and Nrf2/ARE pathways, reducing inflammation and cellular damage, thus slowing skin photoaging. Additionally, in fibroblasts, natural active ingredients primarily promote the TGF-β pathway, inhibit MMPs activity, and enhance collagen synthesis while potentially modulating the mTOR pathway, thereby protecting the dermal collagen network and reducing wrinkle formation. Several trials showed that natural compounds that regulate keratinocytes and fibroblasts responses have significant and safe therapeutic effects. The demand for natural product-based ingredients in sunscreen formulations is rising. Natural compounds show promising anti-photoaging effects by targeting cellular pathways in keratinocytes and fibroblasts, providing potential therapeutic strategies. However, comprehensive clinical studies are needed to verify their efficacy and safety in mitigating photoaging, which should use advanced pharmacological methods to uncover the complex anti-photoaging mechanisms of natural compounds.

Biosynthesis and characterization of gold nanoparticles from citrullus colocynthis (L.) schrad pulp ethanolic extract: Their cytotoxic, genotoxic, apoptotic, and antioxidant activities

The age-old discipline of plant therapy has gained renewed importance through the utilization of plants for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles. However, toxicity testing and characterization of the recently synthesized nanomaterials are essential to evaluating their appropriate application. Citrullus colocynthis is a medicinal plant with several health benefits. Herein, we used its ethanolic pulp extract (PE) to manufacture gold nanoparticles (PE-AuNPs). Various approaches were employed to assess the MTT50 and NR50 values of PE and PE-AuNPs at different concentrations in the human hepatocarcinoma cell line (HepG2). The study aimed to assess the genotoxic effects and in vivo toxicity of PE and PE-AuNPs at MTT50 dosages. The quasi-spherical, cubic/triangular prisms, and nail-looking particles exhibited no antioxidant properties. They had an absorbance peak between 540 and 560 nm, diameters of less than 20 nm, hydrodynamic diameters of 177.9 nm, and a negative surface charge (−10.3 mV). The significant role of plant phytochemicals in the formation of metal nanoparticles is confirmed by the diminished antioxidant capacity of extract residues following PE-AuNP synthesis. PE-AuNPs exhibited in vivo and cytotoxic effects at relatively lower concentrations compared to PE. In contrast to PE, PE-AuNPs exhibited lower genotoxic at MTT50 dosages. Despite having MTT50 values of approximately 1.95 ± 0.06 and 0.89 ± 0.03 mg/ml, PE and PE-AuNPs can still be considered biocompatible. Nonetheless, our results suggest that the characteristics of recently produced nanoparticles can differ from those of the matching plant. Further investigation can provide a better understanding of the possible therapeutic and pharmacological impacts of PE-AuNPs.

Green method synthesis of silver nanoparticles from Ficus religiosa plant leaves extract and their evaluation for anti-cancer activity in Human Lung Adenocarcinoma A549 cells

Due to low surface area and minimum possible state of energy, spherical nanoparticles are preferable over nanoparticles of other shapes. Use of nanoparticles in cancer therapy is an emerging field with wide varieties of applications. But, to retain within the cell for optimum anticancer activity, synthesized nanoparticles are required to be in proper shape and size. Plant phytochemicals reduce and cap metal ions to produce nanoparticles of different shapes and sizes. In this study, silver nanoparticles were synthesised using Ficus religiosa plant leaves aqueous extract. Synthesised material was characterised using Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy dispersive X Ray analysis (EDAX), Transmission Electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy techniques. FTIR analysis showed presence of varied phytochemicals. SEM analysis of the sample elucidated morphological characteristics of the material while elemental analysis through EDAX technique reported silver metal ions in synthesised sample. TEM analysis confirmed nanoparticles size ranging from 21-27 nm. Result of the study showed decreased cell viability of A549 cells when treated with the green method to synthesise silver nanoparticles.

The Green Solution: In-Vitro and In-Silico Screening of Fagonia cretica and Berberis lyceum Phytochemicals against Haemophilus influenzae

Haemophilus influenzae (family Pasteurellaceae) is a coccobacillus, which is a non-spore-forming, non-motile, and non-acid-fast Gram-negative bacteria, present in upper respiratory tract causing epiglottitis, chronic bronchitis, meningitis, sinusitis, and community-acquired pneumonia. H. influenzae is resistant to certain antibiotics; novel drug discoveries are needed. In the present study, B. lyceum and F. cretica plant phytochemicals were tested in vitro against H. influenzae. Zones of inhibition were measured after the crude extract was tested using a well diffusion method against H. influenzae cultured on chocolate agar. Methanolic crude extract from B. lyceum showed a maximum zone of inhibition (32 mm) followed by ethanolic extract (30 mm). Similarly, methanolic extract from F. cretica showed maximum zone of inhibition (29 mm) followed by ethanolic extract (27.5 mm). Cytotoxic factor outer membrane protein (OMP) from H. influenzae was docked with the previously identified phytochemicals of these plants. In silico analysis shows that phytic acid from these plants is the most potent inhibitor of outer membrane protein (P6) followed by sindamine and karakuramine. The present study recommends that B. lyceum phytochemicals can be synergistically used as a potential drug against H. influenzae.