Pruriens Seeds Research Articles

L-DOPA ELICITATION THROUGH CALCIUM ION MEDIATED CHANNEL IN CALLUS CULTURES OF MUCUNA PRURIENS

Objective: The production of L-Dopa in callus cultures of Mucuna pruriens is influenced by substances that regulate calcium channels. Methods: M. pruriens seeds were gathered from the Western Ghats area in Tamil Nadu. L-Dopa was obtained by the Brain (1976) method, A. niger cultures were used for fungal elicitor preparation, and the assay of Ca2+ATPase was studied. Results: The use of fungal triggers resulted in increased L-Dopa levels on the 9th day but reduced levels on the 24th day of culture. When calcium channel modulators like verapamil and chlorpromazine were added, it decreased the growth of calli and L-Dopa production, suggesting the role played by calcium ion channels in L-Dopa synthesis. The calcium ionophore A23187 enhanced calli growth and L-Dopa production, increasing Ca2+ATPase activity. Particularly on the 12th d, Ca2+ATPase was notably active, while the presence of calcium ionophore boosted L-Dopa biosynthesis. Conclusion: The use of fungal elicitors in in vitro cultures of Mucuna pruriens is recommended as a potential method to increase the production of secondary metabolites.

Facile and green synthesis of highly fluorescence carbon dots derived from Mucuna pruriens seeds: A versatile platform for sensitive detection of Au3+ ions and in vitro cell imaging

In this work, we have established a simple, efficient, non-toxic, cost-effective and completely green strategy to synthesize carbon dots (CDs) using Mucuna pruriens (alkushi) seeds. Synthesized CDs through facile one-pot hydrothermal route has a spherical shape with an average diameter of 4.02 nm. Surface analysis of these CDs was performed utilizing XPS, FTIR, and zeta potential measurement, confirming the presence of –OH, -NH2, and –COOH groups. The obtained CDs exhibit excellent photostability, high quantum yield and possess outstanding water solubility. Moreover, these CDs provide high response for detection of Au3+ ions through fluorescence quenching with a noticeable change in colour of the solution (colorimetric). The LOD was calculated to be 51.20 nM using 3σ/k rule. The mechanism of sensing was established through FTIR, florescence lifetime, UV and Isothermal Titration Calorimetry (ITC). These experiments indicate that a ground state complex formed between CDs and Au3+ ions and subsequent reduction to Au0. The specificity towards Au3+ ions was tested against different interfering ions and was implemented to analysis the real sample. The synthesized CDs have also the potential to be applied in temperature sensing application. The cytotoxicity and biocompatibility were evaluated against prostate cancer cell line (PC3 cell) and a human lung fibroblast cell line (WI38 cell). Finally, Non-cytotoxic CDs were applied for live cell imaging and in vitro sensing of Au3+ ions.

Phytonutrient and Biochemical Profile, Antihyperglycaemic Potential of Mucuna pruriens Seeds From Owerri, Nigeria

Phytonutrient and Biochemical Profile, Antihyperglycaemic Potential of Mucuna pruriens Seeds From Owerri, Nigeria

Antioxidant activity of Flemingia praecox and Mucuna pruriens and their implications for male fertility improvement

Globally, 15–24% couples are unable to conceive naturally and 50% of cases of this problem are due to infertility in males. Of this, about 50% of male infertility problems are developed due to unknown reasons called as idiopathic infertility. It is well established that, reactive oxygen species (ROS) have negative impact on male fertility and are involved in 80% of total idiopathic male infertility cases. Medicinal plants are considered as an alternative approach for mitigating the health problems. The plants with good antioxidant capacity can improve the male infertility symptoms generated by ROS. Such medicinal plants can be used to alleviate the symptoms of male infertility with their diverse phytoconstituents. Mucuna pruriens is a well-accepted herb, with its seeds being used to improve the male fertility in various ways and one of the ways is by eliminating the ROS. In our field survey, another plant, Flemingia praecox, although less known, its roots are used in all problems related to the male fertility by tribal people of the Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra, India. The study was conducted to determine in vitro antioxidant potential of F. praecox and compared the results with the well-established male fertility improving plant M. pruriens with special emphasis on medicinally important roots of F. praecox and seeds of M. pruriens. The objective of the study was investigated by studying their total phenol (TPC) and flavonoid (TFC) content, antioxidant parameters (DPPH, FRAP, ABTS, DMPD, β-carotene bleaching and TAA) and finally DNA damage protection capacity of the plant extracts was studied. The plant parts used for the medicinal purposes have been investigated along with other major parts (leaves, stem and roots of both the plants) and compared with synthetic antioxidants, BHA, BHT and ascorbic acid. Moreover, the inhibition of two male infertility enzyme markers, PDE5 and arginase by F. praecox root and M. pruriens seed extract was also studied in vitro. The results showed that F. praecox possesses higher antioxidant activity than M. pruriens in the majority of studies as observed in TFC, DPPH, TAA, ABTS and DMPD assays. However, M. pruriens seeds showed best results in TPC, FRAP and DNA damage protection assay. F. praecox root extract also gave better PDE5 inhibition value than M. pruriens seeds. This study will help to establish the authenticity of F. praecox used by tribal people and will encourage its further use in managing the male infertility problems.

The Effects of Mucuna pruriens and Basella alba Extracts on Sex Reversal in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

The use of synthetic steroids for sex reversal in various fish is widespread, but due to the potential dangers of these types of compounds, the use of phytochemicals has been explored as a suitable natural alternative. In this experiment, the effects of extracts of Mucuna pruriens seeds and Basella alba leaves on sex reversal in Oncorhynchus mykiss were investigated. Fifteen-days-old rainbow trout larvae (mean weight: 0.123 ± 0.001 g) were fed experimental diets containing 17 α-methyltestosterone (MT) (60, 90 mg/kg diet), ethanol extract of B. alba leaves (1.0, 2.0 g/kg diet), and methanol extract of M. pruriens seeds (0.1, 0.2 g/kg diet) for 90 days. After 90 days, the experimental diets were replaced with the basal diet until 10 months of age. The control group was fed the basal diet. At the end of the experiment, growth factors, survival (%), intersex (%), and masculinization (%) were measured. The feed conversion ratio and specific growth rate in all experimental groups were not significantly different from those in the control group ( P > 0.05 ). The highest significant percentage of intersex (6.03 ± 3.53%) and the lowest percentage of survival (72.33 ± 2.51%) were observed in the treatment with 90 mg MT/kg compared with the other treatments ( P > 0.05 ). The percentage of intersexuality was significantly lower in the groups fed with plant extract than in the groups fed with MT ( P < 0.05 ). The percentage of intersexuality was significantly lower in the groups fed with plant extract than in the groups fed with MT. The highest percentage of masculinization was observed in the groups fed with M. pruriens extract (0.2 g/kg) (61.75 ± 17.16%) and MT (90 mg/kg) (68.62 ± 1.82%). Moreover, masculinization was significantly higher in all experimental groups than in the control group ( P > 0.05 ). There were significantly more males (%) in all experimental groups than in the control group. In conclusion, extracts of M. pruriens and B. alba can be used as an environmentally friendly and safe alternative to MT to induce masculinization of rainbow trout.

Chromatography-mass spectrometry based chemical profiling of Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. and its beneficial effect against hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress in HEK 293T cells and breast cancer cells

Chemical profiling of Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. and exploring its efficacy against H2O2-induced oxidative stress in HEK 293T cells and anticancer potential was the aim of this pilot study. One of the main areas of natural product research in the modern period is the search of naturally occurring antioxidants and their potential to ward-off cancer. So, medicinally and pharmacologically important plant M. pruriens was selected for the study. The collected M. pruriens seeds were sequentially extracted with hexane, chloroform, methanol, water and chemoprofiled using GC-MS, GC-FID and LC-QTOF-MS/MS. DPPH, phosphomolybdenum, FRP and ferrous chelating assays were performed for in vitro antioxidant efficacies whereas Folin-Ciocalteu method for total phenolic content of sequential extracts. The cellular antioxidant efficacy of the screened extract was studied through H2O2-induced oxidative stress in HEK 293T cells (MTT and PI Live dead assay with FACS). The anticancer effect of sequential extracts was checked on MCF-7 cells using MTT assay. The chemical profiling revealed the presence of high-value phytochemicals like terpenes, alkaloids and phenolic compounds in these extracts. Water extract was profound for in vitro antioxidant activity and comparable with the synthetic antioxidant. The total phenolic content of the extracts and its positive correlation with antioxidant activity were also established. The screened water extract further showed a promising protective effect on the oxidative stress induced HEK 293T cells and also effective for its cytotoxicity on MCF-7 cells. Many of the identified metabolites are reported for the first time from the selected plant. The potential of water extract to serve as a cheap and alternative antioxidant instead of synthetic options was explored. The high in vitro cytotoxicity of water extract against breast cancer cells indicates the chance of exploration of these extracts/its high-value phytochemicals as an anticancer drug. Since the water extract is screened with remarkable activities, this study has further relevance as both economic and environmental friendly. As it is water and devoid of any solvent residues, the screened extract would not impart any environmental pollution and health hazards.

Bioactive compounds from four Indian medicinal plants have different potency to induce sex reversal in Nile tilapia: A chromatographic, molecular docking and in silico analysis.

Herbal plants such as Basella alba (Family: Basellaceae), Tribulus terrestris (Family: Zygophyllaceae), Asparagus racemosus (Family: Asparagaceae) and Mucuna pruriens (Family: Fabaceae) are mentioned in Indian traditional system of medicine Ayurveda to possess androgenic activity and increase male virility. The plants have been reported to improve testosterone level and sperm production in experimental male rodents as well. Male Nile tilapias grow more quickly than females and hence are preferred for monosex Nile tilapia culture. Ethanol extracts of B. alba leaves (EB) and T. terrestris seeds (ET), and methanol extract of A. racemosus roots (MA) and M. pruriens seeds (MM) were found effective to induce masculinization in Nile tilapia. The present study intends to evaluate the anti-aromatase activity of EB, ET, MA and MM, to identify the androgenic bioactive compounds in the extracts, and to determine their pharmacokinetics. The study may validate the use of those plant extracts and their major bioactive phytoconstituents in the field of aquaculture and pharmaceuticals. The four crude plant extracts were first fractioned through column and thin layer chromatography (TLC). Three days old Nile tilapia juveniles (mean weight 0.025±0.009g; mean length 12.50±0.12mm; n=50 fish/replicate, 3 replicates/treatment) were then fed diets fortified with the obtained fractions for 30 days. After 30 days, fish were sacrificed and gonad aromatase mRNA expression, and 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT) and estradiol (E2) levels were measured. Fractions yielding the highest male percentage for each plant were subject to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. The in silico docking and SwissADME study were conducted with the components showing higher peak percentage in chromatogram. After column chromatography and TLC analysis, EB, ET, MM and MA yielded 6 (EB1 - EB6), 8 (ET1- ET8), 14 (MM1-MM14) and 5 (MA1- MA5) fractions, respectively. Fish fed EB2, ET2, MA2 and MM13 fraction fortified diets showed significantly (p<0.05) higher male percentage (92.32%-98.39%) compared to other treatment groups. EB2, ET2, MA2 and MM13 fed fish showed significantly (p<0.05) higher 11-KT level compared to control male (+247.52 - +397.76%) and lower E2 level compared to control female (-95.92% to -90.65%). Aromatase mRNA expression was significantly (p<0.05) down-regulated by all these four fractions (-1.32 to -5.65 fold) with respect to control female. GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of 1-Octadecene (OD) in EB2, Phenol, 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl) (PD) in ET2 and MA2, 9,12-Octadecadienoic acid (Z,Z)- (ODDA) in MM13. In silico molecular docking indicated that PD is more effective than ODDA and OD to inhibit aromatase. In addition, PD showed better pharmacokinetics and more drug-likeness compared to OD and ODDA in SwissADME analysis. The present results indicate that ET and MA are more potent to produce all-male tilapia by means of aromatase inhibition. PD can be an ideal compound to achieve masculinization in Nile tilapia through dietary administration, but further investigation is required.

Effect of crude oil pollution on heavy metal content and GST gene expression of Mucuna pruriens

The study investigated the effect of crude oil pollution on the heavy metal content and gene expression of Mucuna pruriens. Varying amounts of crude oil (0ml, 200ml, 400ml, 800ml and 1000ml) were used to pollute 10kg bags of loam soil, onto which Mucuna pruriens seeds were planted for 8 weeks. Data were collected for heavy metal content of plant tissues and GST gene expression. The highest heavy metal content of the plant tissue was observed at the 800ml treatment (0.0135 g kg-1, 0.074 g kg-1, and 0.0211 g kg-1) and the least was observed for the control treatment (0.0049 g kg-1, 0.034 g kg-1 and 0.0142 g kg-1), thus showing percentage increments of 175.51%, 117.65%, and 48.59% for the copper, zinc, and nickel content respectively. This showed that the increment of crude oil pollution in the soil led to a seemingly dose-dependent increment of heavy metal content of the plant tissue. The normalized expression levels of the target gene (GST) in the calibrator (control) sample “A”, and that of the treated/polluted (test) sample “B” were established as 0.150726 and 0.145592 respectively; and, it was established that there was no significant change in the normalized expression levels of the target gene (GST) in both the control (calibrator) sample and the treated/polluted (test) sample. Crude oil treatment of M. pruriens, despite showing reductions in the morphological parameters and increments in the heavy metal content of the tissues, didn’t affect the expression of the target GST gene, as was evident in the absence of significant difference in the normalized expression levels of the target gene (GST) in both the control (calibrator) sample and the treated/polluted (test) sample. Considering the resilience of M. pruriens and its ability to adapt to the high amounts of crude oil in the soil, it is advised that it be employed in the possible phyto-extraction of crude oil and/or phyto-remediation in crude oil polluted soils.

Effects of Single and Double Treatment Methods on the Micronutrients in Mucuna pruriens (Velvet Bean) Seed Flour

Mucuna pruriens seed is an underutilized legume with good nutritional value with a possibility of changes in its micronutrients’ composition during processing whose data is scanty. Mucuna pruriens seed flour was therefore evaluated for the effect of soaking, cooking, roasting, germination and fermentation as well as some double treatments on its vitamin and mineral contents. Mucuna pruriens seeds were cleaned, washed, soaked, cooked, roasted, germinated and fermented. Vitamins and minerals composition were determined. Soaking, cooking and roasting significantly reduced (p&lt;0.05) all the vitamins. Vitamin B9 was significantly (p&lt;0.05) reduced the most with a range of 0.28 – 21.88 mg/100g. Vitamins B1, B2, B3 and B12 were significantly increased by fermentation with vitamin B2 increased the most (0.26 to 1.50 mg/100g; represents 577% increase). Vitamin B9 was the most significantly reduced (p&lt;0.05) from 21.88 to 0.28 mg/100g by 72 h fermentation. Cooking reduced all the minerals except potassium and sodium. Potassium was increased from 690.50 to 930.75, 760.50 and 730.00 mg/100 in 10, 15 and 20 minutes roasted samples respectively. Germination significantly (p&lt;0.05) reduced all the minerals except 24 h germination which increased calcium from 218.17 mg/100g in the raw Mucuna pruriens seed to 234.36 mg/100g. Fermentation generally reduced all the minerals significantly (p&lt;0.05) except calcium and zinc. Germination and fermentation have proved to be suitable methods for the enhancement of vitamin B2, B3, B12 and zinc in Mucuna pruriens seed flour. Combined process treatments reduce most vitamins and minerals in M. pruriens seed flour and are therefore not suitable for their improvement.

Effect of Mucuna pruriens on brain NMDA receptor and tau protein gene expression in cerebral ischemic rats.

Present study aimed to assess effect of pre-treatment with Mucuna pruriens seed extract and its bioactive molecule(s) on NMDAR and Tau protein gene expression in cerebral ischemic rodent model. Methanol extract of M. pruriens seeds was characterized by HPLC, and β-sitosterol was isolated by flash chromatography. In vivo studies to observe the effect of pre-treatment (28 days) with methanol extract of M. pruriens seed and β-sitosterol on the unilateral cerebral ischemic rat model. Cerebral ischemia induced by left common carotid artery occlusion (LCCAO) for 75min (on day 29) followed by reperfusion for 12h. Rats (n = 48) divided into four groups. GroupI (control,Untreated + LCCAO)-No pre-treatment + cerebral ischemia; GroupII(β-sitosterol + Sham)-pre-treatment with β-sitosterol, 10mg/kg/day + sham-operated; GroupIII(β-sitosterol + LCCAO)-pre-treatment with β-sitosterol, 10mg/kg/day + cerebral ischemia; GroupIV(methanol extract + LCCAO)-pre-treatment with methanol extract of M. pruriens seeds, 50mg/kg/day + cerebral ischemia. Neurological deficit score was assessed just before sacrifice. Experimental animals were sacrificed after 12h reperfusion. Brain histopathology was performed. Gene expression of NMDAR and Tau protein of left cerebral hemisphere (occluded side) was performed by RT-PCR. Results revealed that the neurological deficit score was lower in groups III and IV compared to group I. NMDAR and tau protein mRNA expression in left cerebral hemisphere were upregulated in Group I, downregulated in groups III and IV. Histopathology of left cerebral hemisphere (occluded side) in Group I showed features of ischemic brain damage. Groups III and IV, left cerebral hemisphere showed less ischemic damage compared GroupI. Right cerebral hemisphere showed no areas of ischemia-induced brain changes. Pre-treatment with β-sitosterol and methanol extract of M. pruriens seeds may reduce ischemic brain injury following unilateral common carotid artery occlusion in rats.

Enhanced Physicochemical Stability of the L-DOPA Extract of Mucuna pruriens Seeds by Adding Phyllanthus emblica.

Levodopa (L-DOPA) is an essential drug for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. Currently, L-DOPA can be produced by chemical synthesis and can also be found naturally in many herbs, especially Mucuna Pruriens (MP). According to clinical research, the MP extract containing L-DOPA for the treatment of Parkinson's disease could reduce side effects more than the synthetic one. Unfortunately, MP extracts can be easily degraded. Changes in physical and chemical properties such as the appearance (color, melt, solid lump) and the reduction of L-DOPA content in the extract were commonly observed. Therefore, it is necessary to develop an extraction procedure to stabilize the extract of L-DOPA. This study attempted to enhance the extraction process by modifying the traditional acidification approach using hydrochloric acid, citric acid, or ascorbic acid. According to the stability test results, using Phyllanthus emblica water (PEW) as a solvent improved the preservative properties more than other solvents. The color of the PEW-MP powder changed slightly after 12 months of accelerated storage, but the amount of L-DOPA remained the highest (73.55%). Moreover, L-DOPA was only detected in MP and PEW-MP, but not PEW alone (the HPTLC chromatogram at Rf 0.48 and the HPLC chromatogram at Rt 6.0 min). The chemical profiles of PEW and L-DOPA observed in the chromatograms indicated that they are independently separated. As a result, they can be applied to a quality control process. Therefore, PEW was proven to be a powerful solvent for L-DOPA herbal extract that could be readily used as a raw material for herbal products.

Valorization of some minor plants of Côte d'Ivoire: Biochemical parameters and nutritional composition of the legume Mucuna pruriens seeds according to their maturity stage

The present study was aimed at investigating some biochemical properties, mineral contents and amino acid composition in seeds of Mucuna pruriens as a function of ripening stage. These seeds were harvested at different stages of maturation in a field carried out in the center of Côte d'Ivoire (Gbèkê Region). Seeds and pod were separated, and they were oven dried and ground to obtain the crude flour and analyzed according to standard procedures. Results showed that levels of dry matter (85.229-94.025 g.100g-1 dw), lipids (1.503-2.973 g.100g-1 dw), proteins (17.810-28.617 ± 0.296 g.100g-1 dw), fiber (6.483-7.477 g.100g-1 dw), ash (3.922 -9.231 g.100g-1 dw) and total sugars (10.338 -26.210 g.100g-1 dw) , increase significantly with the stage of maturity, while those of carbohydrates (70.282-51.703 g.100g-1 dw) and the energy value (365.893-348.037 Kcal.100g-1) decreases. Mineral analysis revealed that seeds are rich in essential minerals. Potassium (915.54- 20065.73 ug.100g-1) were the most abundant mineral, followed by magnesium (1335.33-16546.66 ug.100g-1), calcium (808.66-7739.39 ug.100g-1) and phosphorus (732.33-7440.00 ug.100g-1). The least abundant minerals were sodium (0.00-60.22 ug.100g-1), zinc (20.25-56.33 ug.100g-1), iron (41.63-475.52 ug.100g-1), copper (9.76-37.99 ug.100g-1) and manganese (0.00-5.94 ug.100g-1). For all assayed minerals, highest levels were founded in the seeds harvested 45 days after fertilization. Amino-acids profile has showed nutritionally useful amounts of essential amino acids such as histidine (18.32-40.81 mg.g-1 protein), isoleucine (30.76-66.35 mg.g-1 protein), leucine (72.47-103.51 mg.g-1 protein), lysine (27.22-57.28 mg.g-1 protein), methionine (25.51-51.74 mg.g-1 protein), threonine (10.91-37.40 mg.g-1 protein), tryptophan (29.22 -61.62 mg.g-1 protein) and valine (35.71-72.74 mg.g-1 protein). The study revealed M. pruriens seeds are rich in energetic and nutritional compounds. However, to optimize their nutritional qualities they may be harvest 35 days after the fertilization of the flowers.

Mucuna pruriens seeds extract boosts growth, immunity, testicular histology, and expression of immune-related genes of mono-sex Nile tilapia (Oreochromisniloticus)

Nutraceuticals have received increased attention in sustainable aquaculture. Consequently, the present study aimed to evaluate the dietary effects of Mucuna pruriens (MP) seed extract on growth performance, immune status, hepatic function, biochemical profiles, gonadal histology, and expression of immune-related genes in mono-sex Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Fish were allocated into four groups and received MP at rates of 0 (control), 2, 4, and 6 g/kg diet, respectively, for 90 days. The results revealed that MP significantly (P<0.05) modulated growth performance (specific growth rate, final length, and length gain rate, body mass gain, and feed conversion ratio), lysozyme activity, and liver enzymes (AST, ALT). However, a non-significant effect on nitric oxide (NO) or immunoglobulin M (IgM) levels was detected, whereas the dietary inclusion of MP had a hypoglycemic effect. In terms of plasma globulin, albumin, globulin/albumin ratio, and cortisol, the MP receiving groups showed insignificant difference (P<0.05) when compared to controls, except for the 2 g MP-supplemented group. The lower inclusion concentration of MP (2 g/kg diet) demonstrated the best result (P < 0.05) for gonadosomatic index (GSI) and plasma testosterone level that was consistent with the histological findings reflecting an improvement in the testicular development compared with the control group. Expressions of complement component (C5) and interleukin 1-β (IL-1β) genes were significantly up-regulated in MP receiving groups. In conclusion, M. pruriens can be used as a safe natural economic feed additive and a low inclusion level of 2 g/kg diet is recommended to improve growth, enhance immunity, maintain liver functioning, improve testicular development, and to modulate immune-related genes in the mono-sex O. niloticus.

COMPARATIVE ANALYTICAL STUDY OF DIFFERENT EXTRACTS ON MUCUNA PRURIENS

Mucuna pruriens is an under-utilized wild legume, which is widespread in tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. The test was carried out in Mucuna pruriens seed ‘Magic bean’ a species of Fabaceae family is a pot of medicinal uses. Preliminary phytochemical analysis was carried in Mucuna pruriens seed and confirmed the presence of alkaloids, reducing sugar, proteins, carbohydrates, saponins and tannins. Three extracts were prepared namely Oil, Aqueous, Alcohol extracts from Mucuna pruriens for GC-MS analysis. Oil extract of Mucuna pruriens Seed through GC- MS analysis identified about 17 components and the main component is N-Hexadecanoic acid. Water extract of Mucuna pruriens Seed shows Ethane, 1,1-Diethoxy-, 2-Methoxy-1,3-Dioxolane, 1-Butanol, 3-Methyl, Formic Acid, 1- Methylethyl Ester, 3,3-Diethoxy-1-Propanol as main compounds. Ethanolic extract shows 1,2- ethanediamine, n-methyl, tuaminoheptane, 2,2-dimethoxybutan as major compounds. Among the three extracts tested, Ghee extract contains toxic- free compounds analysed by GC-MS and found to be safe for consumption. Oil extract can be recommended for the preparation of Ayurvedic medicine for treating various disease conditions. Keywords: Mucuna pruriens, Phytochemical analysis, GC-MS analysis

Development of Jelly Loaded with Nanogel Containing Natural L-Dopa from Mucuna pruriens Seed Extract for Neuroprotection in Parkinson's Disease.

The first line therapy of patients with Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative disorder caused by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, is levodopa (L-dopa) given orally. Recently, the presence of natural L-dopa in the seed of Mucuna pruriens, a tropical legume in the Fabaceae family, was reported and it showed superior efficiency compared with synthetic L-dopa. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the phytochemical compounds, particularly for natural L-dopa, in M. pruriens seed extract and subsequently prepare a nanogel containing the extract prior to incorporation into a jelly formulation for use as a functional food in elderly patients with Parkinson’s disease. The results show that M. pruriens seed extract contains phenolic compounds, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, terpenoids, and saponins. The quantitative analysis performed by the HPLC method revealed that spray-dried M. pruriens seed extract contained 5.59 ± 0.21% L-dopa. M. pruriens seed extract possesses a ferric-reducing antioxidant power and shows free-radical scavenging activity, determined by DPPH and ABTS methods, suggesting a distinctive antioxidant ability of the extract. M. pruriens seed extract at 10 ng/mL did not show cytotoxicity against a neuronal cell line (SH-SY5Y cells), kidney cells (HEK293 cells), or Caco-2 cells. Nanogel of M. pruriens seed extract prepared by ionic gelation had the hydrodynamic diameter, polydispersity index and zeta potential value of 384.53 ± 11.24 nm, 0.38 ± 0.05, and −11.23 ± 1.15 mV, respectively. The transepithelial transport of L-dopa in M. pruriens seed-extract nanogel through Caco-2 cells was measured. Nanogel containing M. pruriens seed extract at the concentration of 10 ng/mL exhibited neuroprotective activity. A jelly formulation containing M. pruriens seed-extract nanogel was successfully developed. The prepared jelly exhibited the acceptable physical and microbiological stabilities upon 6 months of the stability test. The half-life of natural L-dopa in jelly were 3.2, 0.9, and 0.6 years for storage conditions at 4, 30, and 40 °C, respectively, indicating the thermal degradation of natural L-dopa. The prepared jelly containing natural L-dopa from M. pruriens seed extract with the prominent antioxidant activity is a promising option for elderly patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease.

Mucuna pruriens Seed Aqueous Extract Improved Neuroprotective and Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitory Effects Compared with Synthetic L-Dopa.

L-dopa, a dopaminergic agonist, is the gold standard for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. However, due to the long-term toxicity and adverse effects of using L-dopa as the first-line therapy for Parkinson’s disease, a search for alternative medications is an important current challenge. Traditional Ayurvedic medicine has suggested the use of Mucuna pruriens Linn. (Fabaceae) as an anti-Parkinson’s agent. The present study aimed to quantify the amount of L-dopa in M. pruriens seed extract by HPLC analysis. The cytotoxicity and neuroprotective properties of M. pruriens aqueous extract were investigated by two in vitro models including the serum deprivation method and co-administration of hydrogen peroxide assay. The results showed the significant neuroprotective activities of M. pruriens seed extracts at a concentration of 10 ng/mL. In addition, the effects of L-dopa and M. pruriens seed extract on in vitro acetylcholinesterase activities were studied. M. pruriens seed extract demonstrated acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity, while synthetic L-dopa enhanced the activity of the enzyme. It can be concluded that the administration of M. pruriens seed might be effective in protecting the brain against neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. M. prurience seed extract containing L-dopa has shown less acetylcholinesterase activity stimulation compared with L-dopa, suggesting that the extract might have a superior benefit for use in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.

The Activities of the Central Nervous System Following Ethyl Acetate Extract of Mucuna pruriens Seed Administration in Male BALB/c Mice

A number of reports showed the beneficial psychotropic effects of many of the Nigerian medicinal plants, but few scientific studies have been carried out as empirical evidence. This study investigated the possible neurobehavioural effects of ethyl acetate extract of Mucuna pruriens (MP) seed in male BALB/c mice. Male BALB/c mice (2½-3 months old) were grouped into 5 (n=6), treated with normal saline (0.1 mL), n-propanol extract of MP (200, 100, 50 mg/kg) or reference drug haloperidol (HP) or diazepam (DZP); thereafter, subjected to diverse behavioural models to evaluate the central nervous system (CNS) effects of the extract. A bolus of MP (200, 100, and 50 mg/kg) decreased the rectal temperature, exploratory activities (locomotion, rearing and grooming), anxiety-like responses (% open-arms time, open-arm entries, and the total number of enclosed arms times). Additionally, a one-shot of intraperitoneal administration of MP decimated the total score of apomorphine-induced stereotyped behaviours. Latency to hexobarbitone-induced sleep increased significantly in the 200 mg/kg MP, unchanged in the 100 mg/kg MP, and decreased in the 50 mg/kg MP treated groups. There was a marked decrease in the markers of convulsion (tonic flexion, extension, clonic convulsion, stupor, and recovery time) following MP treatment, especially the higher doses (200 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg). In conclusion, the CNS effects of systemic administration of MP seed are not unrelated to its hypothermic, hypnotic, anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant effects.

Aqueous solutions of organic acids as effective solvents for levodopa extraction from Mucuna pruriens seeds

• Aqueous solutions of organic acids are promising substitutes for organic solvents. • Performance in the extraction of L-dopa from the seeds of M. Pruriens was assessed. • High purity and yields of L-dopa have been achieved with the investigated compounds. Levodopa is an amino acid commonly used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease found in several plants, such as Mucuna pruriens . The extraction of levodopa from biomass has been achieved using methanol, ethanol:water mixtures in presence of ascorbic acid, chloroform in alkaline media, and acetonitrile. Aiming at finding more sustainable solvents and develop efficient extraction processes, in this work, aqueous solutions of carboxylic acids (acetic, propionic, citric, glycolic, and lactic acid) and (poly)alcohols (ethanol, ethylene glycol and glycerol) were studied for the extraction of levodopa from Mucuna pruriens seeds. An initial screening with aqueous solutions of these compounds (at 50 wt%) was conducted at 50 °C, with an extraction time of 90 min at a solid/liquid (biomass/solvent) ratio of 1:10. Based on these results, citric acid aqueous solutions were identified as the best solvent, and an experimental design was carried out to optimize the temperature (T), solid/liquid ratio (S:L) and concentration of acid (wt.%), with the following optimal extraction conditions found: T = 60 °C, S:L = 1:7 and concentration of acid at 58 wt%. Under these optimal conditions, an extraction efficiency of 9.2 ± 0.1 wt% of levodopa was achieved. The recovery of levodopa from the acidic aqueous solution was achieved using an ion exchange column, allowing the recovery of approximately 84% of levodopa. The solvent was shown to be reusable in three successive extraction cycles, with no significant losses in the extraction efficiency of levodopa. The results here obtained show that citric acid aqueous solutions can lead to the effective extraction of levodopa from seeds of Mucuna pruriens, serving as basis for the development of more effective and environmentally friendly processes to recover natural products with therapeutic properties.

QBD Approach to Predict the in-vivo Performance Based on in-vitro Results using Mucuna pruriens Seed Mucilage as a Novel Tablet Dosage Form Excipient and Dicofenac Sodium as Model drug Candidate

QBD Approach to Predict the in-vivo Performance Based on in-vitro Results using Mucuna pruriens Seed Mucilage as a Novel Tablet Dosage Form Excipient and Dicofenac Sodium as Model drug Candidate

In vitro Evaluation of the Antimicrobial activity of Methanolic and Aqueous extract of Mucuna pruriens seed

The present investigation was to find out efficacy of Mucuna pruriens (M. pruriens) seeds. The antimicrobial activity of methanol and aqueous extract of M. pruriens seeds was determined by well diffusion method with ATCC strains of gram positive and gram negative bacteria clinical strains of multidrug resistant (MDR) Klebsiella pneumoniae, and clinical strains of Candida albicans. It was observed that both the aqueous and the methanol extract of M. pruriens seeds had antibacterial activity against all the ATCC bacterial strains. The MDR strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae was resistant to both aqueous and methanol extract of M. pruriens seed. Antifungal activity against Candida albicans was exhibited by both aqueous and methanol extracts of M. pruriens seed.