Therapeutic Antioxidant Research Articles

Photo-controlled multifunctional hydrogel for photothermal sterilization and microenvironment amelioration of infected diabetic wounds

Diabetic foot ulcers are linked to a high disability rate, with no effective treatment currently available. Addressing infection, reducing oxidative stress, and safely managing chronic inflammation remain major challenges. In this study, a composite hydrogel dressing was developed using natural substances or clinically approved components (dopamine, D-alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate, and rhein). Upon near-infrared laser irradiation, the composite system rapidly heats and solidifies into a gel with photothermal antibacterial properties. Additionally, the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide releases oxygen, alleviating wound hypoxia. The hydrogel exhibited strong bactericidal activity against multiple bacterial strains. Without laser irradiation, the hydrogel effectively scavenged various free radicals and intracellular reactive oxygen species, restoring redox balance. Furthermore, it significantly reduced the expression of inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-6 and interleukin-1β. In a diabetic mouse wound model infected with S. aureus, the mild photothermal therapy, combined with the antibacterial action of rhein, effectively managed bacterial infections, reduced inflammation, and promoted wound healing. Consequently, the photo-controlled therapeutic approach, offering antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects, holds promise for the effective treatment and management of infected diabetic wounds.

Perspective on the Oxidative Stress Biomarkers and Antioxidant Defense Strategies

Abstract: Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species are produced via a variety of endogenous and exogenous mechanisms that lead to severe impairment in human diseases. Nevertheless, thanks to the presence of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, which in favors of neutralizing these species. Along with several non-enzymatic antioxidants with modest molecular masses, the human body additionally possesses a highly potent intrinsic enzymatic antioxidant system. An imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants in favor of the oxidants, leading to a disruption of redox signaling and control and/or oxidative damage. These oxidative injuries are frequently linked to cancer, aging, and neurological diseases. Direct measurements of the concentrations of reactive species are nearly impossible due to their incredibly short half-lives and fairly expensive systems. Therefore, rather than directly measuring reactive species, products created by oxidative damage to proteins, lipids, and DNA are frequently utilized to estimate the degree of oxidative damage. These oxidative damage products are typically referred to as biomarkers. The assessment of these biomarker concentrations, as well as fluctuations in the concentration of protective antioxidants, might provide significant information for preventing certain diseases and maintaining optimal health. This study aims to summarize the data of the potential biomarkers related to the putative ROS pathway that have been implicated. Additionally, the intervention using therapeutic exogenous antioxidant as defense strategies in balancing the redox reactions and their ramifications has also been discussed.

Paederia foetida Ameliorates Diabetic Cardiomyopathy in Rats Models by Suppressing Apoptosis

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most prevalent global public health issues associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases, contributing to morbidity and mortality. Research has demonstrated that elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in diabetes can trigger apoptosis, exacerbating diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). This study investigates the cardioprotective effects of Paederia foetida in rats’ models of type 2 diabetes induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ) treatment. The diabetic model was established in Sprague Dawley rats by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 40 mg/kg). Sprague Dawley rats were treated with varied concentrations of standardized extract of P. foetida (50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg), administered orally once daily for four weeks. Standardized extract from P. foetida has a range of therapeutic potential, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-diabetic properties. The common metabolic disorder indices and myocardial apoptosis were investigated. The findings from this study demonstrated increased expression of Bcl-2 and decreased expression of Bcl-2 Associated X-protein BAX as indicated by IRS scoring in cardiomyocytes, suggesting that P. foetida has a significant protective effect on diabetic cardiomyopathy by decreasing apoptosis. Increased Bcl-2 and decreased BAX levels may be related to regulating oxidative stress and mitochondrial pathways involving myocardial apoptosis. P. foetida extract could be a potential intervention for attenuating cardiomyopathy in diabetes mellitus.

Research Progress with Atractylone as an Antitumor Agent.

Atractylone is a sesquiterpenoid compound extracted from Rhizoma Atractylodis. As one of the main active components in the volatile oil of the Atractylodes genus, it has exhibited certain therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antioxidant, antiallergic, antiangiogenic, and neuroprotective activities, among others. With further research on the chemical constituents and pharmacology of sesquiterpenes, research on the antitumor activity of Atractylone has also been further expanded. Much of the current literature pays particular attention to the antitumor activity of Atractylone, which was found to inhibit the apoptosis of tumor cells and prevent growth, invasion, and migration through different apoptosis pathways and signaling pathways. Due to its promising potential for cancer prevention, it may play a role in reducing the incidence of malignant tumors. In this paper, the antitumor activity and mechanism of Atractylone are reviewed, providing a reference to inform future research on the tumor treatment, clinical application, and further development and utilization of this plant genus.

Cardiospermum halicacabum Extract Inhibits the Production of Nitric Oxide and Reactive Oxygen Species in LPS-Stimulated RAW 264.7 Cells through Erk/p38 Signalling Pathways

The medicinal plant Cardiospermum halicacabum has been extensively studied for its potential in various therapeutic activities, including anti-inflammation, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal and antiparasitic effects. However, the specific molecular mechanisms responsible for its anti-inflammatory properties remain largely unknown. In order to shed light on this aspect, the current investigation was aimed at elucidating the underlying mechanisms through which C. halicacabum exerts its anti-inflammatory response. The different concentrations of C. halicacabum extract were tested for cytotoxicity on RAW264.6 murine macrophage cells by MTT assay. The inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) in LPS-induced cell pre-treated with the extract was evaluated by Griess assay using Griess reagent. Flow cytometry and fluorescent microscopy were used to examine the reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the treated cells. The expression of iNOS and the phosphorylation status of Erk1/2, p38 and NF-kB were determined by western blotting. The C. halicacabum extract at concentrations up to 125 µg/mL did not cause the cytotoxicity to the RAW264.6 murine macrophage cells. Incubation of LPS-induced cells with the extract significantly minimized the production of NO as compared with the LPS-stimulated cells. Further, the extract significantly reduced ROS generation in LPS-induced cells. In the present of C. halicacabum, LPS-treated cells had the reduced NOS expression as well as had low phosphorylation on Erk1/2, p38 and NF-kB. C. halicacabum attenuates NO and ROS production under the regulation of Erk1/2 and p38 pathway as well as NF-kB. HIGHLIGHTS The underlying mechanisms of halicacabum on its anti-inflammatory response were investigated. halicacabum extract significantly reduced ROS and NO generation in LPS-induced cells. halicacabum attenuates NO and ROS production under the regulation of Erk1/2 and p38 pathway as well as NF-kB. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Comprehensive Insight into Green Synthesis Approaches, Structural Activity Relationship, and Therapeutic Potential of Pyrazolic Chalcone Derivative.

Pyrazolic chalcone exhibits diverse therapeutic activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antitumor, and anti-diabetic properties. Structural activity relationship (SAR) studies play a crucial role in understanding the molecular aspects governing their biological effects, guiding the rational design of derivatives with enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects. This review provides an overview of pyrazolic chalcone derivatives, emphasizing their synthesis through both conventional and green methods. In comparison, conventional synthesis methods have been widely employed in the past for the production of pyrazolic chalcones, often relying on traditional chemical processes that may involve the use of hazardous reagents and generate significant waste. On the other hand, green synthesis methods, in harmony with the growing emphasis on sustainable practices in drug discovery, offer a more environmentally friendly alternative. Green synthesis typically involves the use of eco-friendly reagents, solvents, and energy-efficient processes, resulting in reduced environmental impact and improved resource efficiency. Overall, pyrazolic chalcone derivatives represent a promising class of compounds with significant potential for therapeutic applications.

Comprehensive Review on Nilofar (Nymphaea alba Linn): Unani Perspectives and Therapeutic Potentials

Nilofar (Nymphaea alba Linn) is commonly known as the white-water lily. It is a hydrophyte with enormous medicinal properties, renowned for its alluring white flowers. It is distributed worldwide in ponds, lakes, and marshy areas. Its various parts have been extensively utilized in Unani medicine globally, particularly in the Indian subcontinent, to prevent and treat a variety of ailments. Numerous research findings have documented its therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-hepatitis C, anti-diarrheal, hepatoprotective, antibacterial, anticarcinogenic, antiurolithiatic, uterotonic, anxiolytic, antidepressant, CNS depressant, anticonvulsant, antihyperlipidemic, and antioxidant activities. In Unani medicine, Nilofar is used to treat various illnesses such as palpitations, diarrhea, hepatotoxicity, inflammation, migraines, anxiety, depression, and convulsions. Nilofar contains a variety of chemical constituents, including alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, phenolic content, glycosides, aglycons, phenolic acids, cardiac glycoside nymphalin, and others. This review explores the therapeutic potential of Nilofar, shedding light on its pharmacological properties, traditional uses, and emerging research. By combining traditional knowledge with the latest scientific findings, this review aims to encourage further research and facilitate its integration into mainstream healthcare practices.

Mentha aquatica (Water Mint) as a Source of ActivePharmaceutical and Cosmetic Ingredients: ACriticalReview.

Mentha aquatica L., or water mint, is an important member of the Mentha genus, and has long been used in traditional medicine, mainly to treat respiratory diseases such as the common cold. Nevertheless, although over the years many studies have shown that it's potential grows beyond this use, a review that highlights M. aquatica L.'s true potential is still lacking. Thus, the main purpose of the present article is to provide a thorough and multidisciplinary critical review of M. aquatica L., including its phytochemical characterization, main bioactivities, and current marketed cosmetic products. Many compounds have been identified as part of M. aquatica L. composition, such as terpenes, phenolic acids, phenols, and terpenoids, which have been linked to a vast therapeutic potential, namely anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, antiobesity, and hepatoprotection bioactivities, with additional anticancer potential for several types of tumors (breast, lung, and skin), and psycho and neuroactive potential in depression, or Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease. Additionally, it has been proven to be suitable for cosmetic application since several cleansing, hydrating, protecting, and/or odor masking products containing it are already available, with the main functions attributed to M. aquatica including refreshing/cooling effects, calming/soothing/relaxing effects, and purifying effects, properties closely related to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant bioactivities. Hence, M. aquatica is an extremely versatile plant, with its extracts and essential oils having great therapeutic and cosmetic potential. With many marketed cosmetic products, future studies should focus on this plant's medicinal aspects, so that 1 day it can be part of therapeutic regimens.

Biotransformation of Xanthohumol by Entomopathogenic Filamentous Fungi.

Xanthohumol (1) is a major prenylated flavonoid in hops (Humulus lupulus L.) which exhibits a broad spectrum of health-promoting and therapeutic activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer effects. However, due to its lipophilic nature, it is poorly soluble in water and barely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, which greatly limits its therapeutic potential. One method of increasing the solubility of active compounds is their conjugation to polar molecules, such as sugars. Sugar moiety introduced into the flavonoid molecule significantly increases polarity, which results in better water solubility and often leads to greater bioavailability. Entomopathogenic fungi are well known for their ability to catalyze O-glycosylation reactions. Therefore, we investigated the ability of selected entomopathogenic filamentous fungi to biotransform xanthohumol (1). As a result of the experiments, one aglycone (2) and five glycosides (3-7) were obtained. The obtained (2″E)-4″-hydroxyxanthohumol 4'-O-β-D-(4‴-O-methyl)-glucopyranoside (5) has never been described in the literature so far. Interestingly, in addition to the expected glycosylation reactions, the tested fungi also catalyzed chalcone-flavanone cyclization reactions, which demonstrates chalcone isomerase-like activity, an enzyme typically found in plants. All these findings undoubtedly indicate that entomopathogenic filamentous fungi are still an underexploited pool of novel enzymes.

A Review on Herbal Components used for Polyherbal Facewash

Cosmetics, derived from the Greek word "kosmetikos," are substances used to enhance, cleanse, and promote attractiveness. Face wash has evolved to address various skin concerns, including acne and aging. Herbal cosmetics, utilizing plant-based products, offer aesthetically pleasing physiological effects such as skin healing and smoothening. Their mild and non-toxic nature, along with natural ingredients like oils and extracts, contribute to their benefits. They are rich in nutrients, environmentally friendly, and economically viable, making them a preferred choice for consumers seeking natural alternatives The skin's multi-layered structure, including the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis, plays a crucial role in protecting against external threats, regulating body temperature, and preserving moisture. Face wash products serve therapeutic purposes, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-acne, and antioxidant properties. Herbal face wash products, derived from various botanical families, contribute to their therapeutic and aesthetic properties. The integration of various herbs such as Aloe vera, Rosemary, Buckwheat seeds, Betel-nut palm, Calendula, Babchi, Burdock root, Chia, Sacha inchi, and Jojoba oil into face wash formulations further enriches the landscape. In summary, this literature review provides a comprehensive understanding of herbal cosmetics, the formulation of face wash products, their benefits, and therapeutic applications.

Insight into the Various Approaches Undertaken for the Synthesis of Quinoline Hybrids Imparting Diverse Therapeutic Activities

Abstract: Quinoline is one of the promising and prominent biologically active N-based heterocyclic compounds. This review paper aims to discuss the synthetic approaches, summarized from various research articles on the preparation of quinoline derivatives intended for different therapeutic activities like antifungal activity, anticancer activity, anticonvulsant activity, antitubercular activity, antimalarial activity, anti-Alzheimer activity and so on. The comprehensive study complies with all related publications and trademark publications demonstrating the synthesis and biological aspects of quinoline derivatives. Various types of quinoline hybrids were synthesized and treated for therapeutic activity, including anticancer, antitubercular, anti-Alzheimer, antioxidant, and antifungal activity, which have been analyzed. Quinoline is a planner hetero-aromatic compound with the chemical formula C9H7N. Several wellknown synthetic routes to the quinoline skeleton include Friedlander synthesis, Knorr quinoline synthesis, and Skraup reaction. Researchers may use other techniques or alter current strategies to reach their objectives, depending on what exact structure and therapeutic action they are investigating. The availability of starting materials, reaction conditions, scalability, desired regioselectivity, and functionalization of the quinoline core all have a role in the choice of synthetic method. This review covers the latest literature and knowledge on the synthetic procedures for numerous quinoline and its derivatives and their biological and pharmacological application.

A Comprehensive Review of Traditional Medicinal Uses, Geographical Distribution, Botanical Characterization, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology of Aralia continentalis Kitag.

Aralia continentalis Kitag. (A. continentalis) holds significant medicinal value among the Aralia genus. It has traditionally been employed in ethnomedicine to address a wide range of conditions, including wind-cold-dampness arthralgia; rheumatic pain in the waist and lower extremities; lumbar muscular strain; injuries resulting from falls, fractures, contusions, and strains; headache; toothache; and abscesses. Modern pharmacological research has validated its therapeutic potential, encompassing anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, antimicrobial, insecticidal, hepatoprotective, anti-diabetic, and cytotoxic properties, among other pharmacological effects. To compile comprehensive knowledge on A. continentalis, a rigorous literature search was undertaken utilizing databases like SciFinder, PubMed, and Web of Science. This review seeks to delve into the plant's traditional applications, geographical distribution, botanical characteristics, phytochemistry, and pharmacology. The objective is to lay a foundation and propose novel research directions for exploring the plant's potential applications. Currently, one hundred and fifty-nine compounds have been isolated and identified from A. continentalis, encompassing diterpenoids, steroids, triterpenoids, volatile components, phenolics, vitamins, trace elements, and other compounds. Notably, diterpenoids, steroids, triterpenoids, volatile components, and phenolics have exhibited pronounced pharmacological effects, such as anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial activities. However, despite the extensive research conducted, further studies are imperative to unravel new components and mechanisms of action, necessitating more in-depth investigations. This comprehensive exploration could pave the way for advancing and harnessing the potential of A. continentalis.

Plant‐derived exosomes: A Green Nanomedicine for Cancer

AbstractExosomes are signalling molecules related to cell‐to‐cell communication. Based on sources (plants, stem cells, and immune cells derived exosomes) it offers promising therapeutic activity against cancer. Plant‐derived exosomes (PDEs) are natural extracellular vesicles (EVs) that are potent to provide organic precision nanomedicine to cancer therapeutics including targeted drug delivery. PDEs are gaining attention due to their safety and efficacy. There are plenty of different sources of PDEs in nature. This article explores various plants such as carrots, ginger, lemons, cabbages, blueberries, oranges, tomatoes, grapefruits, and tea leaves, which provide exosomes with distinct therapeutic properties, including anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. PDEs exhibit significant potential in drug delivery. Ongoing research and clinical trials predict that PDEs will become effective, and affordable solutions for cancer treatment.

Biological Activity and Its Application of Alpinia officinarum hance in Dentistry: A Systemic Review of Medicinal Properties

ABSTRACT The use of natural products, particularly herbs, in medicine has a long history and holds great potential in the search for novel pharmaceuticals. Alpinia officinarum hance (A. officinarum) is a dicotyledonous herb of the family Zingiberaceae, including its botanical profile, phytochemical constituents, and various pharmacological activities. A. officinarum has been found to possess diverse therapeutic properties, including antibacterial, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects. This herb is widely used in traditional medicine to address general health conditions. The search was performed using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar to identify relevant published articles on this database to obtain relevant articles published from the inception of the databases until April 2023 using the following set of keywords: (1) Alpinia officinarum OR Zingiberaceae and (2) Antibacterial agent OR Antioxidant OR Anticancer Agent OR Dentistry. Isolated microbial activity studies were included in the review due to its well-established wealth of literature. Extensive research has been conducted on the herb, revealing its potential applications in dentistry and contributing to our understanding of its medicinal properties. Although the herb shows promising therapeutic potential, further translational research is needed for future drug development. Compile comprehensive information on A. officinarum has a positive antibacterial activity and potential application toward oral health maintenance and management in dentistry.

Phytochemistry of Punica granatum Fruit: Its Nutritional and Biological Potential

The present review provides a comprehensive overview of the phytochemistry, nutritional composition, and therapeutic implications associated with the consumption of pomegranate (Punica granatum) fruit, renowned for its dual role as a taste delicacy and a medicinal agent. A detailed exploration of the phytochemical composition is undertaken. Recognized for its myriad health benefits, this fruit has been historically employed as a remedy for diverse disorders, with its leaves, peel, and bark demonstrating efficacy in treating gastrointestinal issues leading to diarrhea. Notably, pomegranate juice has been utilized in treating cholera, while the oil extracted from seeds exhibits notable efficacy in addressing skin and breast cancer. The review underscores the presence of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, tannins, ellagitannins, catechin, and phenols, across various species of P. granatum. In addition to its rich phytochemical profile, pomegranate emerges as a nutritionally rich fruit, boasting significant quantities of vitamins C and D, magnesium, potassium, and dietary fibers. Its nutritional composition aligns with its therapeutic properties, encompassing anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and antimicrobial attributes. Notably, a single cup of pomegranate arils contains 72 calories, 16 g of carbohydrates, and 3 g of dietary fiber. This review serves to deepen our understanding of the multifaceted nature of pomegranate, and addresses emerging and technological advancements in pomegranate phytochemistry.

ADME, Molecular Targets, Docking, and Dynamic Simulation Studies of Phytoconstituents of Cymbopogon citratus (DC.)

Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf. is utilized in both culinary and medicinal contexts, wherein its extracts demonstrate a range of therapeutic properties, including antidiabetic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. This investigation aimed to computationally analyze phytochemicals of C. citratus, evaluating their pharmacokinetics and binding dynamics. The findings revealed a combination of high and low gastrointestinal absorption (GIA) for C. citratus (DC.) phytochemicals, with some exhibiting permeability across the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Xanthine dehydrogenase/oxidase (XDH) emerged as the primary human molecular target of C. citratus phytocompounds, while XDH and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) have central connectivity in the protein interaction network. Orientin has best binding affinity with XDH (−9.083 kcal.mol−1) and MMP9 (−9.051 kcal.mol−1). Molecular dynamic simulations indicated the favorable stability and interactions of XDH with orientin and quercetin, respectively. In summary, this investigation underscores the potential of twenty-six (26) phytochemicals in C. citratus extract to combat cancer and neurodegenerative diseases through mechanisms targeting XDH and MMP9.

Lignin-Based Antioxidant Hydrogel Patch for the Management of Atopic Dermatitis by Mitigating Oxidative Stress in the Skin.

Atopic dermatitis (AD), a chronic skin condition characterized by itching, redness, and inflammation, is closely associated with heightened levels of endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the skin. ROS can contribute to the onset and progression of AD through oxidative stress, which leads to the release of proinflammatory cytokines, T-cell differentiation, and the exacerbation of skin symptoms. In this study, we aim to develop a therapeutic antioxidant hydrogel patch for the potential treatment of AD using lignin, a biomass waste material. Lignin contains polyphenol groups that enable it to scavenge ROS and exhibit antioxidant properties. The lignin hydrogel patches, possessing optimized mechanical properties through the control of the lignin and cross-linker ratio, demonstrated high ROS-scavenging capabilities. Furthermore, the lignin hydrogel demonstrated excellent biocompatibility with the skin, exhibiting beneficial properties in protecting human keratinocytes under high oxidative conditions. When applied to an AD mouse model, the hydrogel patch effectively reduced epidermal thickness in inflamed regions, decreased mast cell infiltration, and regulated inflammatory cytokine levels. These findings collectively suggest that lignin serves as a therapeutic hydrogel patch for managing AD by modulating oxidative stress through its ROS-scavenging ability.

Vaccarin Ameliorates Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity via Inhibition of p38 MAPK Mediated Mitochondrial Dysfunction.

Doxorubicin is a frequently used chemotherapeutic agent for treating various malignancies. However, it leads to severe cardiotoxic side effects, such as heart failure, and elevates the risk of sudden cardiac death among cancer patients. While oxidative stress has been identified as the primary cause of doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity, therapeutic antioxidant approaches have yielded unsatisfactory outcomes. The aim of this study is to explore the therapeutic potential of vaccarin, an active flavonoid glycoside extracted from traditional Chinese herbal agent Semen Vaccariae, in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. We observed that vaccarin significantly ameliorates doxorubicin-induced heart dysfunction in mouse model and suppresses oxidative stress mediated cell apoptosis via specifically inhibiting the activation of p38 MAPK pathway. In vitro, we observed that vaccarin alleviates doxorubicin-induced mitochondrial membrane depolarization and ROS generation in H9c2 cell, but the p38 MAPK agonist anisomycin reverses these effects. Our findings provide a promising natural antioxidant to protect against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity.

Exploring Therapeutic Potential of Catalase: Strategies in Disease Prevention and Management.

The antioxidant defense mechanisms play a critical role in mitigating the deleterious effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Catalase stands out as a paramount enzymatic antioxidant. It efficiently catalyzes the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into water and oxygen, a potentially harmful byproduct of cellular metabolism. This reaction detoxifies H2O2 and prevents oxidative damage. Catalase has been extensively studied as a therapeutic antioxidant. Its applications range from direct supplementation in conditions characterized by oxidative stress to gene therapy approaches to enhance endogenous catalase activity. The enzyme's stability, bioavailability, and the specificity of its delivery to target tissues are significant hurdles. Furthermore, studies employing conventional catalase formulations often face issues related to enzyme purity, activity, and longevity in the biological milieu. Addressing these challenges necessitates rigorous scientific inquiry and well-designed clinical trials. Such trials must be underpinned by sound experimental designs, incorporating advanced catalase formulations or novel delivery systems that can overcome existing limitations. Enhancing catalase's stability, specificity, and longevity in vivo could unlock its full therapeutic potential. It is necessary to understand the role of catalase in disease-specific contexts, paving the way for precision antioxidant therapy that could significantly impact the treatment of diseases associated with oxidative stress.

Embelin mitigates hepatotoxicity induced by isoniazid and rifampicin in rats

Isoniazid and rifampicin are reliable drugs against tuberculosis, but while effective, their use is associated with the risk of drug-induced liver damage. Embelin, a natural parabenzoquinone derived from the Embelia ribes plant, has gained attention for its potential therapeutic properties, antioxidant and organ-protective effects. The study aimed to assess the hepatoprotective properties of embelin against liver dama­ge induced by isoniazid and rifampicin in rats. Wistar rats were used, and liver damage was induced by administration of isoniazid (100 mg/kg) and rifampicin (100 mg/kg). Embelin was given at doses of 50, 75, and 100 mg/kg for 21 days. All the drugs were given orally. Serum levels of the oxidative stress markers, aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity measured by enzymatic assay kits (Elabscience, China), and the levels of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukins IL-1β and IL-6 measured by ELISA kits (Randox, UK) were estimated. Embelin administration at varying doses effectively restored AST, ALT, ALP, SOD and catalase activity and notably decreased MDA and nitric oxide concentration as well as expression of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 in the serum of animals with drug-induced liver damage. These findings underscore embelin’s hepatoprotective effects, likely attributed to its radical scavenging properties and ability to suppress cytokine production. Keywords: antioxidant effect, cytokine suppression, embelin, hepatoprotection, isoniazid, rifampicin