Traditional Formulation Research Articles

A Conceptualist Reading of the Continuity Argument

In this paper I analyze the non-conceptualist continuity argument to show that it implies an implausible conception of perceptual experience in animals that are supposed to lack concepts. In order to do this, I show the limitations and implicit premises in the traditional formulations of the argument, and the additional premises needed to use it as an objection against conceptualism. Then, I review studies in cognitive neuroscience, ethology, comparative psychology, developmental psychology, and philosophical considerations to show that the argument implies a conception of animal experience that is at odds with our scientific theories and even with the motivations for adopting non-conceptualism. I conclude that, if we wish to defend the continuity between adult human’s and other animal’s experiences, we should do it by attributing concepts to the latter.

Mitigating type 2 diabetes: Scientific validation of Biophytum sensitivum (L.) DC. and Mimosa pudica L. as substitutes for Cassia mimosoides L. in ayurvedic medicine

The Ayurvedic concept of 'pratinidhi dravya' (substitute drugs) offers a systematic approach to replaces scarce ingredients in traditional formulations with botanically or pharmacologically similar alternatives. This practice aims to maintain therapeutic efficacy and safety while preventing adulteration. However, scientific validation of these substitutes is essential. This study investigates the substitution of the rare species Cassia mimosoides L. (CM) with two more readily available species recommended in Ayurveda: Biophytum sensitivum (L.) DC. (BS) and Mimosa pudica L. (MP). The research focuses on their potential use in the popular antidiabetic Ayurvedic medicine Katakakhadiradi Kashayam, specifically examining their antioxidant and antidiabetic properties. Our findings revealed that the substituted species, BS and MP, exhibit a remarkable richness in phenolic and flavonoid content compared to the species CM, indicating their potent antioxidant capabilities (IC50 values: CM: 19.55 μg/ml, BS: 60.38 μg/ml, MP: 39.49 μg/ml). LC-MS/MS profiling and quantification indicate a significant amount of different pharmacologically active polyphenols in the three species. Among the identified compounds, orientin (CM-EA: 44.362 mg/kg, BS-EA: 20.528 mg/kg, MP-EA: 34.094 mg/kg) and isoorientin (CM-EA: 85.022 mg/kg, BS-EA: 25.168 mg/kg, MP-EA: 45.035 mg/kg) were the major compounds present in substantial quantity in all three species. Additionally, shikimic acid and chlorogenic acid were present in higher concentrations in the BS-EA and MP-EA extracts. Furthermore, these species demonstrated significant activity against α-glucosidase in various solvent extracts, with IC50 values of 16.44 μg/ml for CM, 56.65 μg/ml for MP, and 69.25 μg/ml for BS, suggesting their promising role in managing diabetes mellitus. These findings support the efficacy of BS and MP as substitutes for CM in managing diabetes and oxidative stress, emphasizing the importance of scientific validation in herbal medicine substitution and adulteration prevention.

A Review: Microneedle Drug Delivery

The various common techniques for transdermal medication delivery include hypodermic needles, topical lotions, and transdermal patches. Because the stratum corneum layer of the skin acts as a barrier for molecules, the action of most therapeutic medicines is restricted, and only a few molecules are able to penetrate and reach the location of action. A novel type of delivery technology known as micro needles aids in improving medication distribution through this channel and addressing the many issues associated with traditional formulations. Because of the problems associated with oral medication delivery methods, transdermal drug administration utilising micro needles is gaining popularity. The possibilities and uses of micro needles are discussed in this review. Micro needles of many sorts can be manufactured, including solid, dissolving, hydrogel, coated, and hollow micro needles. The fabrication process chosen is determined on the kind and material of the micro needle. This technique is now being used in a variety of sectors, including oligonucleotide distribution, vaccine administration, insulin delivery, and even cosmetics.

Recent developments in intranasal drug delivery of nanomedicines for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders.

Neuropsychiatric disorders are multifaceted syndromes with confounding neurological explanations. It includes anxiety, depression, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, schizophrenia, Tourette's syndrome, delirium, dementia, vascular cognitive impairment, and apathy etc. Globally, these disorders occupy 15% of all diseases. As per the WHO, India has one of the largest populations of people with mental illnesses worldwide. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) makes it extremely difficult to distribute medicine to target cells in the brain tissues. However, it is possible through novel advancements in nanotechnology, molecular biology, and neurosciences. One such cutting-edge delivery method, nose-to-brain (N2B) drug delivery using nanoformulation (NF), overcomes traditional drug formulation and delivery limitations. Later offers more controlled drug release, better bioavailability, improved patient acceptance, reduced biological interference, and circumvention of BBB. When medicines are delivered via the intranasal (IN) route, they enter the nasal cavity and go to the brain via connections between the olfactory and trigeminal nerves and the nasal mucosa in N2B. Delivering phytochemical, bioactive and synthetic NF is being investigated with the N2B delivery strategy. The mucociliary clearance, enzyme degradation, and drug translocations by efflux mechanisms are significant issues associated with N2B delivery. This review article discusses the types of neuropsychiatric disorders and their treatment with plant-derived as well as synthetic drug-loaded NFs administered via the IN-delivery system. In conclusion, this review provided a comprehensive and critical overview of the IN applicability of plant-derived NFs for psychiatric disorders.

Chemical, elemental, morphological and toxicological characteristics of traditional Indian Siddha formulation: Kasthuri Karuppu

AbstractThe chemical, elemental, morphological and toxicological characteristics of organometallic formulation (Kasthuri Karuppu) were assessed using UV-spectrophotometer, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ICP-OES, Energy dispersive X-ray, XRD and Zeta potential. The physical properties such as size (10–80 nm), surface area (3.1 m2/g), surface charge (-36mV), and bandgap energy (3.6 eV) were correlated with reactivity. Based on the elemental distribution of Hg, As and S, the proportion favours HgS that is less toxic and reactive. There were no toxic effects of the tested formulation at concentration 60 µg/mL against normal and cancer cells (observed during 24 h). However, the increase in time duration (72 h) had lethal effects in both the cells. The developmental toxicity of the organometallic formulation was assessed in Zebrafish embryos. The safe dosage was found to be 100 µg/mL. The toxicity of the formulation in vitro and in vivo is based on the exposure time and dosage.

Enhanced Therapeutic Potential of Liposome-Coated Bushen Jianpi Recipe for Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) poses a major healthcare burden globally. Traditional Chinese medicine formula Bushen Jianpi (BSJP) recipe shows inhibitory effects on HCC but suffers from low bioavailability. This study aims to develop a BSJP-loaded liposome (BSJP@Lip) for targeted HCC treatment. BSJP@Lip was prepared using a microfluidic device. Particle characterization included size, morphology, drug loading, encapsulation efficiency, and release kinetics analysis. In vitro cytotoxicity, cellular uptake, apoptosis, and protein expression were evaluated in hepG2, Smmc-7721, and hepa 1-6 hepatic cancer cell lines treated with BSJP@Lip. BSJP@Lip nanoparticles showed a uniform spherical shape with an average size of 50 nm and zeta potential at around -2.24 mV. They significantly inhibited cell viability and induced apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner compared with traditional decoction formulations. Enhanced cellular uptake of BSJP@Lip increased the expression of proinflammatory factors IL-18 and NLRP3. BSJP@Lip nanoparticles were found to be efficiently internalized by hepatic cancer cell lines, resulting in a dose-dependent inhibition of cell viability and induction of apoptosis. This effect was accompanied by the upregulation of IL-18 and NLRP3.

Current Formulation Strategies to Design Novel Carriers for Targeted Drug Delivery and Management of Infectious Keratitis: A Comprehensive Review on the Present State of the Art

Objective: Infectious keratitis is a pernicious disease that affects the anterior segment of the eye and is one the leading causes of blindness worldwide. This disease may cause severe visual impairment or permanent vision damage if left untreated. Discussion: No doubt there are many conventional drug delivery systems to treat ocular keratitis, yet it is the fifth leading cause of blindness globally. This is the result of the eye's complex anatomy and barrier system, which restricts the total ocular contact time of the conventional formulations resulting in underdosing. The widely used traditional formulations to treat keratitis, like antibiotic eye drops and ointments, are rendered useless due to less ocular contact time and low therapeutic drug levels at the target ocular site. The main requirement of the present time is to develop novel drug delivery-backed stratagems to overcome the shortcomings of conventional formulations, which will reduce the morbidity associated with infectious keratitis and improve clinical outcomes. It is worth mentioning that there are documented incidents of Herpetic keratitis of the cornea followed by COVID-19 infection and vaccination. Conclusion: This paper is a rigorous review of all the novel drug delivery strategies to combat ocular keratitis. These future drug delivery strategies will pave the way for the present time researcher and formulation chemists to develop multi-dimensional novel formulations that are safe, patient-compliant, and surpass the ocular barriers to maintain therapeutic drug levels in ocular tissues.

Replacing poly(ethylene glycol) with RAFT lipopolymers in mRNA lipid nanoparticle systems for effective gene delivery

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have emerged as promising carriers to efficiently transport mRNA into cells for protein translation, as seen with the mRNA vaccines used against COVID-19. However, they contain a widely used polymer – poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) – which lacks the functionality to be easily modified (which could effectively control the physicochemical properties of the LNPs such as its charge), and is also known to be immunogenic. Thus, it is desirable to explore alternative polymers which can replace the PEG component in mRNA LNP vaccines and therapeutics, while still maintaining their efficacy. Herein, we employed reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerisation to synthesise five PEG-lipid alternatives that could stabilise LNPs encapsulating mRNA or pDNA molecules. Importantly, the resultant RAFT lipopolymer LNPs exhibit analogous or higher in vivo gene expression and antigen-specific antibody production compared to traditional PEG-based formulations. Our synthesis strategy which allows the introduction of positive charges along the lipopolymer backbone also significantly improved the in vivo gene expression. This work expands the potential of RAFT polymer-conjugated LNPs as promising mRNA carriers and offers an innovative strategy for the development of PEG-free mRNA vaccines and therapeutics.

A systematic review on anticancer potential of traditional Chinese medicine (Yang Zheng XiaoJi)

BackgroundThe term "cancer" refers to illnesses in which cells can proliferate uncontrollably, infiltrate, and spread to various body organs. Since it has been used for thousands of years, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is now commonly regarded as an alternative for treating cancer. It has been demonstrated that Yangzheng Xiaoji (YX), a traditional Chinese medicine formulation, has anticancer effects in patients with different tumor types. MethodSearches were conducted in several electronic databases from the year 2003 to 2024, including Pubmed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Science Direct, to find evidence about YX. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of YX's anticancer research findings. ResultA result of the limited understanding of the fundamental mechanisms of action of the herbs, modern medicine frequently conflicts with traditional medicine, such as Chinese herbal medicine. Our research demonstrates the broad spectrum of anticancer potential of the YX formulation. Additionally, the particular YX component was also searched for anticancer potential. DiscussionWe have chosen to emphasize only some aspects of each YX ingredient's function in cancer therapy because it has been suggested that several processes are involved when applying TCM therapies. Furthermore, the effect of YX therapy on various malignancies is also covered. Additionally, we have emphasized YX treatment research that alters the tumor microenvironment and eradicates cancer. ConclusionThe data gathered in this review will act as a strong basis for creating YX for cancer therapy.

Potential Advantages of Idarubicin-Loaded Trastuzumab-Coated Liposomes for Combating Head and Neck Squamous Cancer Cells.

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) with a high mortality rate is among the most common types of cancer in the world. Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is expressed higher than normal level in the most HNSCC tumors, making them resistant to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Therefore, HER2 has been introduced as a suitable target for anticancer drugs. The aim of this study is to examine the efficacy of a treatment protocol involving targeted delivery of idarubicin encapsulated in trastuzumab-decorated liposomes to HNSCC cells. In the current experimental study, efficacies of idarubicin, prepared liposomal idarubicin, and constructed immunoliposomal idarubicin (trastuzumab-decorated) were investigated in killing HN5 cells, a HER2- overexpressing HNSCC-originating cell line. Liposomal content of idarubicin and trastuzumab were qualified by UVVisible spectroscopy and preparations were characterized for shape and size by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). To clarify role of the missing parts of the available crystal structure (PDB ID: 1n8z) within trastuzumab-HER2 interactions, we used a 40 ns molecular dynamic simulation approach. Based on the obtained results, liposomal idarubicin showed higher toxicity of the encapsulated drug on HN5 cells compared to the traditional free drug formulations. The immunoliposomal form of idarubicin was more effective than the liposomal formulation, in killing of HN5 cells. In addition, simulation of interactions between trastuzumab and HER2 revealed that the missing parts (in the crystal structure) of HER2 have critical interaction with trastuzumab, through salt-bridges and hydrogen bonds. It seems that the prepared immunoliposomes could attach more efficiently to HER2 overexpressing cells, which consequently leads to increasing cellular uptake of idarubicin through a receptor-mediated endocytosis mechanism. Moreover, simulation of the interaction between HER2 and trastuzumab suggested considerable possibilities for increasing trastuzumab affinity to HER2.

Characterization and In vitro Release & In vivo Behavior Study of Self-Assembled Nano-Emulsion in XiaoYao Pill for Enhanced Drug Delivery.

Traditional Chinese medicine formulations often contain hydrophobic components with limited solubility and stability, leading to low oral bioavailability. Self-assembled nanoparticles (SANs) have shown promise in enhancing oral bioavailability of these components. However, whether un-decocted Chinese herbal pellets can generate SANs and the impact of SANs formed by multiple components on pharmacokinetic parameters remains unexplored. In this study, single-factor approach was employed to determine the optimal separation method of nano-emulsion phase of XiaoYao pill (N-XY). Morphological and particle size analyses confirmed the nanoscale nature of N-XY. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) fingerprint analysis was conducted to compare the distribution of active ingredients among three different phases of XiaoYao pill (XY pill). In vitro release studies were performed to evaluate the release mechanism of four ingredients from N-XY. Additionally, in vivo pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution behaviors were investigated in rats. N-XY exhibited uniform and stable characteristics as a water-in-oil (O/W) nano-emulsion. Fingerprint analysis identified 25 characteristic peaks and 8 key ingredients in N-XY, with the highest peak areas. In vitro release studies showed a sustained release behavior of N-XY. The pharmacokinetics study showed that the ferulic acid of N-XY had a 1.37-fold higher AUC, 1.44-fold lower Vd/F, 1.39-fold lower CL/F, and a prolonged t1/2 than A-XY, indicating enhanced bioavailability due to reduced elimination. Furthermore, the tissue distribution revealed that the levels of paeoniflorin and ferulic acid from N-XY significantly increased in liver, spleen, lungs, uterus and ovaries, exhibiting targeting characteristics. This study comprehensively explored the formation, characterization, and pharmacokinetics of nano-emulsion in XY pill, introducing novel perspectives and initiating preliminary research on potential SANs in un-decocted traditional Chinese medicine formulations. It also emphasized the importance of enhancing pharmacokinetics of hydrophobic components in Chinese herbal formulations and laid the foundation for future nano-formulation research for XY pill.

Design of Nanocarriers for Chemotherapy of Prostate Cancer

Any part of the body might become cancerous. It begins when regular cells are pushed out by out-of-control cells. This can spread to other parts of the body and interfere with normal bodily functions. Globally, cancer is considered to be a huge burden that will only get worse as the population ages and grows. Given the various drawbacks and adverse effects of the traditional formulations, novel strategies for medication delivery to prostate cancer cells are being researched and explored. With their many advantages over traditional chemotherapy, including improved drug solubility, protection from macrophage uptake, which lengthens the drug's blood residence time, and controlled drug delivery to the target prostate cancer, polymeric nanoparticles have been identified as promising candidates for drug delivery to prostate cancer.

Panax notoginseng saponins and acetylsalicylic acid co-delivered liposomes for targeted treatment of ischemic stroke

In this study, we aimed to develop brain-targeted co-delivery liposomes for the concurrent delivery of Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) for the treatment of ischemic stroke. Within this system, PNS served as a cholesterol substitute, integrating into the phospholipid bilayer of the liposomes, while ASA was encapsulated internally. A poly-2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (PMPC) polymer was synthesized and incorporated into the liposome surface. This formulation demonstrated an enhanced PNS-loading capacity and facilitated the synchronized delivery of key saponin components. Following PMPC modification, the liposomes exhibited prolonged circulation and improved transport across the blood–brain barrier (BBB) through acetylcholine receptor-mediated pathways. Furthermore, the co-delivery system exhibited enhanced therapeutic efficacy in a rat model of cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury via the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase C pathway. Additional analyses revealed significant effects on the metabolism of neurotransmitters, amino acids, folate, and various other pathways, indicating a multi-faceted therapeutic effect. Overall, this study presents an innovative research strategy for the comprehensive delivery of diverse components in traditional Chinese medicine formulations, highlighting the potential for synergistic treatments that combine traditional Chinese medicine with chemical agents.

Retrospective cohort study on the postoperative survival rate enhancement of patients with colorectal cancer using three traditional Chinese medicine formulations: evidence from 1,361 cases

Background: Prior studies have affirmed the safety and effectiveness of traditional Chinese medicine in treating colorectal cancer patients. However, definitive evidence regarding whether traditional Chinese medicine can significantly enhance the survival of colorectal cancer patients remains elusive. This study seeks to provide conclusive insights by examining the postoperative administration of Xihuang capsules, Pingxiao capsules, and Zilongjin tablets and its impact on the 5-year overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) rates among colorectal cancer patients. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted, involving 1,361 patients selected from the medical center. This retrospective study was carried out at a medical center in Tianjin, China. We assessed differences in postoperative OS and DFS between the control group and the medication group using Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards modeling. Additionally, propensity score matching was used to mitigate imbalances in baseline characteristics among patients. Results: Before propensity score matching, Xihuang capsules could prolong the 5-year OS (79.9% vs. 81.4%, P = 0.0480) and 5-year DFS (74.9% vs. 79.5%, P = 0.0046) of patients after surgery. Similar conclusions were obtained after propensity score matching: OS (74.8% vs. 78.3%, P = 0.0084), DFS (72.7% vs. 78.9%, P = 0.008). Patients taking Pingxiao capsules showed improved 5-year OS (77.2% vs. 84.0%, P = 0.0383) and 5-year DFS (69.9% vs. 80.0%, P = 0.0157) after propensity score matching. Patients taking Zilongjin tablets showed improvement in the 2-year OS (84.2% vs. 93.1%, P = 0.0390) and 1-year DFS (88.2% vs. 92.0%, P = 0.0320) after propensity score matching. Conclusion: Xihuang capsules and Pingxiao capsules significantly improved the 5-year OS and DFS of patients with colorectal cancer after surgery. Zilongjin tablets showed improvement in the 2-year OS and 1-year DFS after surgery for patients.

The Dual Role of NRF2 in Colorectal Cancer: Targeting NRF2 as a Potential Therapeutic Approach.

Colorectal cancer (CRC), as the third most common bisexual cancer worldwide, requires urgent research on its underlying mechanisms and intervention methods. NRF2 is an important transcription factor involved in the regulation of redox homeostasis, protein degradation, DNA repair, and other cancer processes, playing an important role in cancer. In recent years, the complex role of NRF2 in CRC has been continuously revealed: on the one hand, it exhibits a chemopreventive effect on cancer by protecting normal cells from oxidative stress, and on the other hand, it also exhibits a protective effect on malignant cells. Therefore, this article explores the dual role of NRF2 and its related signaling pathways in CRC, including their chemical protective properties and promoting effects in the occurrence, development, metastasis, and chemotherapy resistance of CRC. In addition, this article focuses on exploring the regulation of NRF2 in CRC ferroptosis, as well as NRF2 drug modulators (activators and inhibitors) targeting CRC, including natural products, compounds, and traditional Chinese medicine formulations.

A REVIEW ON VISHAVILWADI AGADA

Kerala has a proven unique background in the field of toxicology (Visha chikitsa). Many eminent Visha vaidyas in Kerala managed snake bites and other poisonous stings/ bites. Rather than classical Ayurvedic texts, many books were written by the Visha Vaidyas of Kerala based on their practical knowledge. Kriyakoumudi is one such book which describes many yogas which contain herbal and herbo-mineral drugs for the treatment of Visha as well as its complications. Many formulations mentioned in this book, once used as first-line management of poisonous bites and stings, are now being neglected and forgotten. Vishavilwadi agada is one such antitoxic formulation. In the present day, only a few antitoxic formulations and practices are used for the management of poisoning, the reason for the same being the non-availability of the drugs, the controversy regarding the identity of the ingredients of the formulations mentioned in the classical texts and the lack of knowledge about the traditional treatment procedures and formulations. Vishavilwadi agada, once practised as a lifesaving medicine, remains unrecognized.

Mechanism of modified danggui buxue decoction in glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis: A discussion based on network pharmacology and molecular docking

ObjectiveGlucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) represents a major complication arising from the long-term use of glucocorticoids, which are widely prescribed for various inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Despite its prevalence, the current therapeutic options for GIOP are limited in terms of efficacy, safety profiles, and patient compliance. The Modified Danggui Buxue Decoction (DGBXD), a traditional Chinese herbal formulation, has shown promise in preliminary studies for its potential osteoprotective effects. The present study aimed to explore the mechanistic underpinnings of DGBXD's action on GIOP using network pharmacology and molecular docking approaches, bridging traditional medicine with modern pharmacological insights. MethodNetwork pharmacology is applied to screen drug-active compounds and potential core target proteins for disease treatment and to explore the drugs’ therapeutic mechanisms. ResultAltogether, 78 DGBXD active compounds and 223 DGBXD-related, 146 component-disease common, and 2168 GIOP-associated target genes were obtained. The PPI network had 43 nodes and 462 edges, and a total of 10 core target genes, including TP53, JUN and MAPK3, were identified. The results of the GO enrichment analysis implied that DGBXD might participate in biological activities, including responses to oxidative stress and nutrient levels. The outcomes of the KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that DGBXD may treat GIOP through TNF, IL-17, and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt signaling pathways. Based on to the molecular docking results, biologically active compounds (beta-carotene, formononetin, luteolin, and isorhamnetin) exhibited good binding to AKT1 and ESR1. ConclusionDGBXD may aid in GIOP treatment by modulating multiple therapeutic targets and signaling pathways.

Gut microecology: effective targets for natural products to modulate uric acid metabolism.

Gut microecology,the complex community consisting of microorganisms and their microenvironments in the gastrointestinal tract, plays a vital role in maintaining overall health and regulating various physiological and pathological processes. Recent studies have highlighted the significant impact of gut microecology on the regulation of uric acid metabolism. Natural products, including monomers, extracts, and traditional Chinese medicine formulations derived from natural sources such as plants, animals, and microorganisms, have also been investigated for their potential role in modulating uric acid metabolism. According to research, The stability of gut microecology is a crucial link for natural products to maintain healthy uric acid metabolism and reduce hyperuricemia-related diseases. Herein, we review the recent advanced evidence revealing the bidirectional regulation between gut microecology and uric acid metabolism. And separately summarize the key evidence of natural extracts and herbal formulations in regulating both aspects. In addition,we elucidated the important mechanisms of natural products in regulating uric acid metabolism and secondary diseases through gut microecology, especially by modulating the composition of gut microbiota, gut mucosal barrier, inflammatory response, purine catalyzation, and associated transporters. This review may offer a novel insight into uric acid and its associated disorders management and highlight a perspective for exploring its potential therapeutic drugs from natural products.

Phytoconstituents of a Traditional Oil Formulation Inhibits IL-17A and TNF-α involved in Psoriasis: A Molecular Docking Study

Psoriasis is one of the chronic inflammatory conditions with multifactorial aetiology. Even though there are different treatments available, there is no cure for psoriasis. A Siddha polyherbal formulation, Sivanar vembu kuzhi thailam (SVKT), is used to treat various skin diseases. In this study, methanolic extract of SVKT was analysed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) which showed the presence of 86 compounds. They were further subjected to molecular docking to find the effect of SVKT on inflammatory proteins, IL-17A and TNF-α, involved in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Four shortlisted compounds from SVKT exhibited their inhibitory potential on IL-17A with binding energy varying between -8.2 to -6.6 kcal/mol and three compounds on TNF-α with binding energy varying between -7.8 to -5.6 kcal/mol. Pharmacokinetic properties (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion and Toxicity-ADMET) were also evaluated in silico which showed favourable features. 2-(hydroxymethyl)-6-octylsulfanyloxane-3,4,5-triol and α-Lactose among the shortlisted constituents, inhibited both proteins through exhibiting multiple interactions. Hence this study provides valuable insights into the inhibitory effect of phytochemicals present in SVKT on IL-17A and TNF-α which may pave way to the discovery of new drugs to treat psoriasis.

Traditional Chinese medicine formulation ChangQing compound has significant therapeutic effects on chickens infected with Eimeria tenella

Coccidiosis poses a significant challenge to the poultry industry. However, the excessive and improper use of anticoccidial drugs and vaccines has led to resistance and food safety concerns. Consequently, traditional Chinese herbs have garnered attention as a potentially safer and more effective alternative. ChangQing compound derived from various Chinese herbal medicines is a promising anticoccidiosis agent, but its therapeutic effects have not been comprehensively evaluated. This study aimed to assess the therapeutic efficacy of ChangQing Compound against Eimeria tenella-induced coccidiosis in chickens on the basis of physiological indicators, cecum lesions, and changes in microbial diversity. The comparison with the positive control group revealed the average weight gain (AWG) and anticoccidial index (ACI) of the chicks were significantly higher, in contrast, the feed conversion ratio (FCR), cecal lesion score (CLS), and oocyst count per gram of cecal content (OPG) were significantly lower (P<0.05). Notably, AWG (138.87 g), OPG (0.57 × 106), ACI (177.92), and FCR (2.51) reflected the significant therapeutic effect of the 2.5 g/L ChangQing compound treatment (CQM). Histological sections showed that the cecal villus damage and intestinal wall swelling were minimal in the CQM, consistent with the CLS (0.73). Additionally, the 2.5 g/L ChangQing compound treatment effectively prevented the decrease of red blood cells, platelets, and hemoglobin, while promoting the release of anti-inflammatory factors interleukin-10 and interleukin-4, and inhibiting the pro-inflammatory factors interferon-γ and interleukin-17. The microbial community structure in the CQM was most similar to that of the negative control group. In summary, ChangQing compound had multiple positive effects (e.g., promoting weight gain, alleviating anemia, suppressing coccidial proliferation, reducing intestinal damage, modulating immunity, and maintaining intestinal microbiota homeostasis). The study results may be relevant to developing a novel strategy for the clinical management of coccidiosis.