Assessment of Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L.) transgenics expressing Bt ICPs, Cry2Aa and Cry1AcF under nethouse containment implicated an effective control against herbivory by Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner)

BACKGROUND

Pigeonpea is a source of quality proteins and the main constituent of a well-balanced diet for majority of Indian population. One of the major constraints in the production of pigeonpea is a polyphagous insect pest, Helicoverpa armigera. Non-availability of resistant sources in the germplasm and limitations in conventional breeding have been key factors for continued yield losses. Additionally, hazards of chemical fertilizers on the environment have prompted the scientific community to develop alternative strategies. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticidal proteins (ICPs) have emerged as the most reliable source for the control of insect pests through transgenics.

RESULTS

Transgenic pigeonpea plants harboring validated Bt ICPs, Cry2Aa and Cry1AcF were developed by a non-tissue culture based in planta transformation strategy and assessed for integration of Transfer-DNA (T-DNA) and efficacy against pod borer under in vitro conditions. For the first time this study demonstrates the successful evaluation of 19 transgenic pigeonpea events (11 with cry2Aa and 8 with cry1AcF) under soil and pot conditions in a nethouse containment. The stability in the performance was assessed stringently by deliberate H. armigera larval challenging. The trial identified ten promising events of both the genes that portrayed reduced damage to the herbivore.

CONCLUSION

We present the first ever successful evaluation of pigeonpea transgenics with the ability to mitigate pod borer under nethouse conditions. The transgenics depicted molecular evidence for the stability of T-DNA integration, consistency in the expression of Cry proteins and resistance against H. armigera. These events can form a pool of useful transgenics to manage the devastating pod borer. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

Enzymatic release of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (gliptins) from pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) nutrient reservoir proteins: In silico and in vitro assessments

In silico and in vitro parameters were used to assess the potential of pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) nutrient reservoir proteins as sources of dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP)-4 inhibitors. In silico, 40 pigeon pea proteins evaluated had 46% of amino acids associated with DPP-4 inhibition. After virtual hydrolysis, pepsin had the highest frequency of release and bioactivity of released DPP-4 inhibiting peptides, compared to papain and thermolysin. In vitro, thermolysin released the most active DPP-4 inhibitors. The protein hydrolysates contained similar amino acids but different particle sizes. Thus, the bioactivity patterns are attributable to the different nature and behavior of proteins/peptides under actual and virtual conditions. Using eight physicochemical variables, a random forest model with moderate prediction accuracy was developed for predicting DPP-4 inhibitory activity of papain hydrolysates. The findings demonstrate that proteins from pigeon pea are precursors of DPP-4 inhibitors, with potential use in formulating functional food for managing type 2 diabetes. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The emerging use of in silico simulations to predict bioactivity of peptides can provide a framework to direct further wet lab assessments. This pattern can enhance focusing on factors relevant to the bioactive properties of interest. However, there is still limited evidence to confirm the reliability and accuracy of this tool. This study therefore provides insight into the practical use of in silico simulations to predict bioactivity of food peptides by assessing the factors relevant to the enzymatic release of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors from pigeon pea seed storage proteins and validating the findings with wet lab assessment. This work also provides important information that can enhance the utilization of pigeon pea, which is an orphan crop, in developing functional food products for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus in developing countries.

Glycemic Response in Diabetic Subjects to Biscuits Produced from Blends of Pigeon Pea and Wheat Flour

This study evaluated the glycemic response to pigeon pea (PP) - wheat flour (WF) composite biscuits by diabetic patients. Biscuits were produced from flour made from the mixture of WF and PP flour in the proportion of 100:0 (100 - PP), 75:25 (75-PP), 50:50 (50-PP), 25:75 (25-PP), and 0:100 (WF), 4.5% ginger was used as flavor. Sensory evaluation revealed that 100-PP (6.54 ± 0.05) had highest acceptability and palatability attributes (p < 0.05). Glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) of the biscuits ranged from 100 - PP (41.36 ± 0.30) to CAB (79.89 ± 1.00) and 100-PP (10.57 ± 0.01) to CAB (30.70 ± 0.40), respectively. All the composite biscuits had low GI < 60 and GL < 20. Composite biscuit may suggest a cheap, adequate and safe supplementary diet for diabetic patients.

Spermatotoxicity and Testicular Pathology in Wistar Strain Rats fed Graded Levels of Pigeon Pea Diet

Pigeon pea is an important grain legume in the tropics and subtropics and it is a valuable source of low-cost plantprotein for humans and animals, but it remains an underutilized legume. Effects of feeding graded levels of raw pigeon pea seed inclusion diets on testicular function in Wistar rats was investigated. Thirty male Wistar rats weighing between 120 and 160 g were assigned into six groups (A-F) of 5 rats each.

Effect of lablab and pigeon pea leaf meal supplementation on performance of goats fed a basal diet of haricot bean haulms

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of lablab and pigeon pea leaf supplementation on feed intake, digestibility, weight gain, and carcass characteristics of goats fed a basal diet of haricot bean haulms. Thirty-two yearling intact male goats with an average initial body weight of 14.4 ± 1.04 kg (Means ± SD) were assigned to one of the four treatments in a randomized complete block design. The dietary treatments were 17.5% lablab + 17.5% pigeon pea leaf + 63% wheat bran (T1), 35% pigeon leaf + 63% wheat bran (T2), 35% lablab leaf + 63% wheat bran (T3), and 88% wheat bran + 10% noug seed cake (T4). In addition, all treatment diets contained 1 and 1% limestone. The feeding trial lasted for 90 days followed by 7 days of digestibility trial. Carcass evaluation was conducted at the end of the feeding trial. Final body weight ranged from 16.3 kg for T4 to 21.1 kg for T3. The total dry matter (DM) intake for T3 was higher (P < 0.05) than T2 and T4. The total crude protein (CP) intake for T2 was greater (P < 0.05) than T3 and T4. Goats supplemented with T3 diets had the highest (P > 0.05) digestibility of DM, organic matter, and CP and attained the highest (P < 0.05) average daily gain, the heaviest (P < 0.05) hot carcass weight, and the highest (P < 0.05) rib-eye muscle area than those supplemented with T1, T2, and T4 diets. In conclusion, 35% lablab leaf meal and 63% what bran (T3) were found to be a very promising supplement in sheep fed low-quality crop residues under the condition of the current experiment.

Effect of brewery wastewater obtained from different phases of treatment plant on seed germination of chickpea (Cicer arietinum), maize (Zea mays), and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan)

Brewing industry releases large quantities of wastewater after product generation. Brewery wastewater contains organic compounds which are biodegradable in nature. These biodegradable wastes can be recycled and reused and hence considered as suitable products for agriculture. But before using wastewater for agriculture, it is better to evaluate the phytotoxic effects of wastewater on crops. Hence, the main objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of brewery effluent on seed germination and growth parameters of selected crop species like chickpea (Cicer arietinum), maize (Zea mays), and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan). Study comprised seven types of water treatments-tap water as control, diluted UASBR effluent (50% effluent + 50% distilled water): UASBR50, undiluted UASBR effluent: UASBR100, diluted TC effluent (50% effluent + 50% distilled water): ETP50,TC effluent without dilution: ETP100, 10% diluted reverse osmosis (RO10) reject (10% RO reject + 90% distilled water), and 25% diluted reverse osmosis(RO25) reject (25% RO reject + 75% distilled water) with three replications in completely randomized design. Germination test was performed in petri plates for 5 days. Parameters like germination percentage, germination rate index, seedling length, phytotoxicity index, seed vigor index, and biomass were calculated. All parameters decreased with increase in respective effluent concentration. Among all treatments, RO25 showed highest inhibitory effect on all three crops. Even though undiluted effluent of UASBR and ETP effluent showed positive effect on germination, seedling growth of three crops was promoted to the maximum by UASBR50 and ETP50. Hence, from the study, it was concluded that dilution of brewery effluent can be recommended before using it for irrigational purpose.

Phytomedicines (medicines derived from plants) for sickle cell disease

BACKGROUND

Sickle cell disease, a common recessively inherited haemoglobin disorder, affects people from sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, Mediterranean basin, Indian subcontinent, Caribbean and South America. It is associated with complications and a reduced life expectancy. Phytomedicines (medicine derived from plants in their original state) encompass many of the plant remedies from traditional healers which the populations most affected would encounter. Laboratory research and limited clinical trials have suggested positive effects of phytomedicines both in vivo and in vitro. However, there has been little systematic appraisal of their benefits. This is an update of a Cochrane Review first published in 2004, and updated in 2010, 2013, and 2015.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the benefits and risks of phytomedicines in people with sickle cell disease of all types, of any age, in any setting.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Haemoglobinopathies Trials Register, the International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number Register (ISRCTN), the Allied and Complimentary Medicine Database (AMED), ClinicalTrials.gov and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP).Dates of most recent searches: Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Haemoglobinopathies Trials Register: 10 April 2017; ISRCTN: 26 July 2017; AMED: 24 August 2017; ClinicalTrials.gov: 02 August 2017; and the WHO ICTRP: 27 July 2017.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised trials with participants of all ages with sickle cell disease, in all settings, comparing the administration of phytomedicines, by any mode to placebo or conventional treatment, including blood transfusion and hydroxyurea.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Both authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data.

MAIN RESULTS

Two trials (182 participants) and two phytomedicines Niprisan^® (also known as Nicosan^®) and Ciklavit^® were included. The Phase IIB (pivotal) trial suggests that Niprisan^® was effective in reducing episodes of severe painful sickle cell disease crisis over a six-month period (low-quality evidence). It did not affect the risk of severe complications or the level of anaemia (low-quality evidence). No serious adverse effects were reported. The single trial of Cajanus cajan (Ciklavit^®) reported a possible benefit to individuals with painful crises (low-quality evidence), and a possible adverse effect (non-significant) on the level of anaemia (low-quality evidence).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

While Niprisan^® appeared to be safe and effective in reducing severe painful crises over a six-month follow-up period, further trials are required to assess its role in the management of people with sickle cell disease and the results of its multicentre trials are awaited. Currently no conclusions can be made regarding the efficacy of Ciklavit^®. Based on the published results for Niprisan^® and in view of the limitations in data collection and analysis of both trials, phytomedicines may have a potential beneficial effect in reducing painful crises in sickle cell disease. This needs to be further validated in future trials. More trials are required on the safety and efficacy of phytomedicines used in managing sickle cell disease.

Intravaginal practices are associated with greater odds of high-risk HPV infection in Haitian women

OBJECTIVE

Haitian women have the highest incidence of cervical cancer within the Western hemisphere. Intravaginal hygiene practices have been linked with human papilloma virus (HPV) infection and cervical dysplasia. These practices, known as 'twalet deba' in Haitian Creole, are common among Haitian women and are performed with various natural and synthetic agents. As part of a community-based participatory research initiative aimed at reducing cervical cancer disparities in rural Haiti, we explored the use of intravaginal agents and their associations with high-risk HPV infection.

DESIGN

Community Health Workers recruited 416 women for cervical self-sampling from two neighborhoods within Thomonde, Haiti. Participants were interviewed regarding intravaginal hygiene practices and completed a cervical self-sampling procedure. Cervical samples were analyzed for the presence of high-risk HPV infection. Associations between each intravaginal agent and high-risk HPV infection were examined via univariate logistic regression analyses, as well as via multivariate analyses controlling for sociodemographic factors and concurrent agent use.

RESULTS

Nearly all women (97.1%) performed twalet deba, using a variety of herbal and commercially produced intravaginal agents. Approximately 11% of the participants tested positive for high-risk HPV. Pigeon pea and lime juice were the only agents found to be associated with high-risk HPV in the univariate analyses, with women who used these agents being approximately twice as likely to have high-risk HPV as those who did not. Only pigeon pea remained significantly associated with high-risk HPV after controlling for sociodemographic factors and concurrent agent use.

CONCLUSION

Two agents, pigeon pea and lime juice, may contribute to risk for HPV infection in this population. Results suggest that in addition to cervical cancer screening interventions, future preventive initiatives should focus on minimizing risk by advocating for the use of less-toxic twalet deba alternatives.

A Systematic Review of Perennial Staple Crops Literature Using Topic Modeling and Bibliometric Analysis

Research on perennial staple crops has increased in the past ten years due to their potential to improve ecosystem services in agricultural systems. However, multiple past breeding efforts as well as research on traditional ratoon systems mean there is already a broad body of literature on perennial crops. In this review, we compare the development of research on perennial staple crops, including wheat, rice, rye, sorghum, and pigeon pea. We utilized the advanced search capabilities of Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Agricola to gather a library of 914 articles published from 1930 to the present. We analyzed the metadata in the entire library and in collections of literature on each crop to understand trends in research and publishing. In addition, we applied topic modeling to the article abstracts, a type of text analysis that identifies frequently co-occurring terms and latent topics. We found: 1.) Research on perennials is increasing overall, but individual crops have each seen periods of heightened interest and research activity; 2.) Specialist journals play an important role in supporting early research efforts. Research often begins within communities of specialists or breeders for the individual crop before transitioning to a more general scientific audience; 3.) Existing perennial agricultural systems and their domesticated crop material, such as ratoon rice systems, can provide a useful foundation for breeding efforts, accelerating the development of truly perennial crops and farming systems; 4.) Primary research is lacking for crops that are produced on a smaller scale globally, such as pigeon pea and sorghum, and on the ecosystem service benefits of perennial agricultural systems.

Phytomedicines (medicines derived from plants) for sickle cell disease

BACKGROUND

Sickle cell disease, a common recessively inherited haemoglobin disorder, affects people from sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, Mediterranean basin, Indian subcontinent, Caribbean and South America. It is associated with complications and a reduced life expectancy. Phytomedicines (medicine derived from plants in their original state) encompass many of the plant remedies from traditional healers which the populations most affected would encounter. There has been little systematic appraisal of their benefits. This is an update of a Cochrane Review first published in 2010 and updated in 2013.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the benefits and risks of phytomedicines in people with sickle cell disease of all types, of any age, in any setting.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Haemoglobinopathies Trials Register, the International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number Register (ISRCTN) and the Allied and Complimentary Medicine Database (AMED).Dates of most recent searches: Haemoglobinopathies Trials Register: 13 October 2014;

ISRCTN

17 January 2015; AMED: 20 January 2015.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised trials with participants of all ages with sickle cell disease, in all settings, comparing the administration of phytomedicines, by any mode to placebo or conventional treatment, including blood transfusion and hydroxyurea.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Both authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data.

MAIN RESULTS

Two trials (182 participants) and two phytomedicines Niprisan(®) (also known as Nicosan(®)) and Ciklavit(®) were included. The Phase IIB (pivotal) trial suggests that Niprisan(®) was effective in reducing episodes of severe painful sickle cell disease crisis over a six-month period. It did not affect the risk of severe complications or the level of anaemia. No serious adverse effects were reported. The single trial of Cajanus cajan (Ciklavit(®)) reported a possible benefit to individuals with painful crises, and a possible adverse effect (non-significant) on the level of anaemia.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

While Niprisan(®) appeared to be safe and effective in reducing severe painful crises over a six-month follow-up period, further trials are required to assess its role in the management of people with sickle cell disease and the results of its multicentre trials are awaited. Currently no conclusions can be made regarding the efficacy of Ciklavit(®). Based on the published results for Niprisan(®) and in view of the limitations in data collection and analysis of both trials, phytomedicines may have a potential beneficial effect in reducing painful crises in sickle cell disease. This needs to be further validated in future trials. More trials are required on the safety and efficacy of phytomedicines used in managing sickle cell disease.

Phytomedicines and nutraceuticals: alternative therapeutics for sickle cell anemia

Sickle cell anemia is a genetically inherited disease in which the "SS" individual possesses an abnormal beta globin gene. A single base substitution in the gene encoding the human β -globin subunit results in replacement of β 6 glutamic acid by valine, leading to the devastating clinical manifestations of sickle cell disease. This substitution causes drastic reduction in the solubility of sickle cell hemoglobin (HbS) when deoxygenated. Under these conditions, the HbS molecules polymerize to form long crystalline intracellular mass of fibers which are responsible for the deformation of the biconcave disc shaped erythrocyte into a sickle shape. First-line clinical management of sickle cell anemia include, use of hydroxyurea, folic acid, amino acids supplementation, penicillinprophylaxis, and antimalarial prophylaxis to manage the condition and blood transfusions to stabilize the patient's hemoglobin level. These are quite expensive and have attendant risk factors. However, a bright ray of hope involving research into antisickling properties of medicinal plants has been rewarding. This alternative therapy using phytomedicines has proven to not only reduce crisis but also reverse sickling (in vitro). The immense benefits of phytomedicines and nutraceuticals used in the management of sickle cell anemia are discussed in this paper.

Phytomedicines (medicines derived from plants) for sickle cell disease

BACKGROUND

Sickle cell disease (SCD), a common recessively inherited haemoglobin disorder, affects people from sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, Mediterranean basin, Indian subcontinent, Caribbean and South America. It is associated with complications and a reduced life expectancy. Phytomedicines (medicine derived from plants in their original state) encompass many of the plant remedies from traditional healers which the populations most affected would encounter. There has been little systematic appraisal of their benefits.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the benefits and risks of phytomedicines in people with SCD of all types, of any age, in any setting.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Haemoglobinopathies Trials Register, the International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number Register (ISRCTN) and the Allied and Complimentary Medicine Database (AMED).Dates of most recent searches:Haemoglobinopathies Trials Register: 05 July 2012;ISRCTN: 28 December 2009;AMED: August 2003.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised trials with participants of all ages with SCD, in all settings, comparing the administration of phytomedicines, by any mode to placebo or conventional treatment, including blood transfusion and hydroxyurea.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Both authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data.

MAIN RESULTS

Two trials (182 participants) and two phytomedicines Niprisan(®) (also known as Nicosan(®)) and Ciklavit(®) were included. The Phase IIB (pivotal) trial suggests that Niprisan(®) was effective in reducing episodes of severe painful SCD crisis over a six-month period. It did not affect the risk of severe complications or the level of anaemia. No serious adverse effects were reported. The single trial of Cajanus cajan (Ciklavit(®)) reported a possible benefit to individuals with painful crises, and a possible adverse effect (non-significant) on the level of anaemia.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

While Niprisan(®) appeared to be safe and effective in reducing severe painful crises over a six-month follow-up period, further trials are required to assess its role in the management of people with SCD and the results of its multicentre trials are awaited. Currently no conclusions can be made regarding the efficacy of Ciklavit(®). Based on the published results for Niprisan(®) and in view of the limitations in data collection and analysis of both trials, phytomedicines may have a potential beneficial effect in reducing painful crises in SCD. This needs to be further validated in future trials. More trials are required on the safety and efficacy of phytomedicines used in managing SCD.

Phytomedicines (medicines derived from plants) for sickle cell disease

BACKGROUND

Sickle cell disease (SCD), a common recessively inherited haemoglobin disorder, affects people from sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, Mediterranean basin, Indian subcontinent, Caribbeans and South America. It is associated with complications and a reduced life expectancy. Phytomedicines (medicine derived from plants in their original state) encompass many of the plant remedies from traditional healers which the populations most affected would encounter. There has been little systematic appraisal of their benefits.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the benefits and risks of phytomedicines in people with SCD of all types, of any age, in any setting.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Haemoglobinopathies Trials Register and the ISRCTN Register for all publication years; AMED was searched by the previous authors for an earlier version of this review for the period 1985 to August 2003.Dates of most recent searches:Haemoglobinopathies Trials Register: 07 July 2010;ISRCTN: 28 December 2009;AMED: August 2003.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised trials with participants of all ages with SCD, in all settings, comparing the administration of phytomedicines, by any mode to placebo or conventional treatment, including blood transfusion and hydroxyurea.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Both authors independently assessed trial quality and extracted data.

MAIN RESULTS

Two trials (182 participants) and two phytomedicines Niprisan(®) (also known as Nicosan(®)) and Ciklavit(®)) were included. The Phase IIB (pivotal) trial suggests that Niprisan(®) was effective in reducing episodes of severe painful SCD crisis over a six-month period. It did not affect the risk of severe complications or the level of anaemia. No serious adverse effects were reported. The single trial of Cajanus cajan (Ciklavit(®)) reported a possible benefit to individuals with painful crises, and a possible adverse effect (non-significant) on the level of anaemia.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

While Niprisan(®) appeared to be safe and effective in reducing severe painful crises over a six-month follow-up period, further trials are required to assess its role in the management of people with SCD and the results of its multicentre trials are awaited. Currently no conclusions can be made regarding the efficacy of Ciklavit(®). Based on the published results for Niprisan(®) and in view of the limitations in data collection and analysis of both trials, phytomedicines may have a potential beneficial effect in reducing painful crises in SCD. This needs to be further validated in future trials. More trials are required on the safety and efficacy of phytomedicines in managing SCD.

[Baked product development based fermented legumes and cereals for schoolchildren snack]

The objective of this work was to develop three foodstuffs based on mixes of wheat and fermented and non-fermented legumes, for the purpose of contributing with a healthy alternative for school snacks. To this aim, refined wheat flour was partially substituted with whole legume flours for the preparation of cakes, brownies and cookies, foodstuffs traditionally consumed by school age children. Cakes were formulated substituting 20% of wheat flour with Phaseolus vulgaris flour, brownies with 30% of Cajanus cajan flour and cookies with 30% of Vigna sinensis flour, using fermented and non-fermented legumes in the three products. When these products were subjected to sensorial evaluation through a test of degree of acceptability and using a hedonic scale of 7 points, values higher than 5 in the attributes taste, color and overall appraisal were found for all the products. In addition, the preference was measured with a group of 90 school children, corroborating the results obtained at laboratory level. Chemical characterization showed protein contents between 12 and 13% for the cake, 10 and 11% for the brownies and 10% for the cookies and protein digestibilities in vitro of 91%, 87% and 93%, respectively. The calorie supply, calculated per portion was of 199 kcal, 246 kcal and 237 kcal, for cakes, brownies and cookies, respectively. It was concluded that it is technically possible to incorporate fermented and non-fermented Phaseolus vulgaris, Vigna sinensis and Cajanus cajan, to highly consumed products such as cakes, brownies and cookies with a higher nutritional content and well-accepted by school-age children.

Effects of water extract of Cajanus cajan leaves on the osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation of mouse primary bone marrow stromal cells and the adipocytic trans-differentiation of mouse primary osteoblasts

The effects of water extract of Cajanus cajan (Linn.) Millsp. (Leguminosae) leaves (WECML) on the osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation of mouse primary bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) and the adipocytic trans-differentiation of mouse primary osteoblasts (OBs) were studied. The results indicated that WECML promoted the proliferation of BMSCs and OBs at most concentrations. WECML promoted the osteogenic differentiation and formation of mineralized matrix nodules of BMSCs at concentrations of 0.1, 1, and 10 microg/mL, but inhibited the osteogenic differentiation and formation of mineralized matrix nodules of BMSCs at concentration of 0.01 microg/mL. WECML inhibited the adipogenic differentiation of BMSCs and adipocytic trans-differentiation of OBs at concentrations of 0.001, 0.1, 1, 10, and 100 microg/mL, but had no effects at concentration of 0.01 microg/mL. The results suggest that WECML has protective effects on bone and these protective effects may be mediated by decreasing adipocytic cell formation from BMSCs, which may promote the proliferation, differentiation, and mineralization function of OBs. The defined active ingredients in the WECML and the active mechanism need to be further studied.

Preliminary in vitro antisickilng properties of crude juice extracts of Persia Americana, Citrus sinensis, Carica papaya and Ciklavit®

The antisickling properties of crude juice extracts of the edible portions of three commonly consumed tropical fruits namely Persia americana, Citrus sinensis, and Carica papaya were investigated in vitro alongside a new drug preparation called Ciklavit® that has antisickling activity. Four different solvent extracts of the crude juice of each fruit including aqueous, acidic, alkaline and alcoholic extracts were prepared and their antisickling effects on sickle cell trait (HbAS) and sickle cell disease (HbSS) blood samples checked alongside Ciklavit®. Blood samples were stabilized using normal saline and the antisickling effects were checked by counting the number of sickle cells remaining after incubation of the blood samples with the crude fruit extracts and Ciklavit® for twenty-four hours. The results showed that Ciklavit® produced a sustained reduction in the number of sickle cells in both HbAS and HbSS blood samples. Also the alkaline and alcoholic extracts of P. americana and C. papaya produced significant reduction in the number of sickle cells.

Cajanus cajan Linn. (Leguminosae) prevents alcohol-induced rat liver damage and augments cytoprotective function

AIM OF THE STUDY

Cajanus cajan Linn. (Leguminosae) is a nontoxic edible herb, widely used in Indian folk medicine for the prevention of various liver disorders. In the present study we have demonstrated that methanol-aqueous fraction (MAF2) of Cajanus cajan leaf extract could prevent the chronically treated alcohol induced rat liver damage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Chronic doses of alcohol (3.7 g/ kg) orally administered to rats for 28 days and liver function marker enzymes such as GPT, GOT, ALP and anti-oxidant enzyme activities were determined. Effect of MAF2 at a dose of 50mg/kg body weight on alcohol treated rats was noted.

RESULTS

Alcohol effected significant increase in liver marker enzyme activities and reduced the activities of anti-oxidant enzymes. Co-administration of MAF2 reversed the liver damage due to alcohol; it decreased the activities of liver marker enzymes and augmented antioxidant enzyme activities. We also demonstrate significant decrease of the phase II detoxifying enzyme, UDP-glucuronosyl transferase (UGT) activity along with a three- and two-fold decrease of UGT2B gene and protein expression respectively. MAF2 co-administration normalized UGT activity and revived the expression of UGT2B with a concomitant expression and nuclear translocation of Nrf2, a transcription factor that regulates the expression of many cytoprotective genes.

CONCLUSION

Cajanus cajan extract therefore shows a promise in therapeutic use in alcohol induced liver dysfunction.

Management of disease complex caused by root knot nematode and root wilt fungus on pigeonpea through soil organically enriched with Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhiza, karanj (Pongamia pinnata) oilseed cake and farmyard manure

This investigation was undertaken to compare the percentage response of colonization and development of VA-Mycorrhiza (Glomus fasciculatum) on a number of pulse crops viz. cowpea, chickpea, soybean, pigeonpea and lentil under glasshouse conditions. Among the above-mentioned crops, pigeonpea exhibited the best performance and was selected for further studies. In this host the development and colonization percentage of G. fasciculatum was investigated under two separate substrates i. e. soil amended with FYM and karanj oilseed cake keeping a control treatment of field soil. A third treatment amended with karanj oilseed cake and farm yard manure (FYM) was also kept which responded best in terms of colonization percentage. This treatment showing improved plant health as well as integration with G. fasciculatum was selected as an ideal treatment for the management of disease complex caused by root knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita and root wilt fungus, Fusarium udum on pigeonpea. Thus the treatment constituting FYM, karanj oilseed cake and VA-Mycorrhiza reduced the disease incidence caused by both maladies to a great extent with the most promising improvement in plant growth parameters as compared to all others. The present investigation, in addition to proposing an ideal eco-friendly treatment for the management of this disease complex also proposed an excellent medium for the proliferation of the obligate bio-protectant, G. fasciculatum.

Antileishmanial and antifungal activity of plants used in traditional medicine in Brazil

The antileishmanial and antifungal activity of 24 methanol extracts from 20 plants, all of them used in the Brazilian traditional medicine for the treatment of several infectious and inflammatory disorders, were evaluated against promastigotes forms of two species of Leishmania (L. amazonensis and L. chagasi) and two yeasts (Candida albicans and Cryptococcus neoformans). Among the 20 tested methanolic extracts, those of Vernonia polyanthes was the most active against L. amazonensis (IC(50) of 4 microg/ml), those of Ocimum gratissimum exhibited the best activity against L. chagasi (IC(50) of 71 microg/ml). Concerning antifungical activity, Schinus terebintifolius, O. gratissimum, Cajanus cajan, and Piper aduncum extracts were the most active against C. albicans (MIC of 1.25 mg/ml) whereas Bixa orellana, O. gratissimum and Syzygium cumini exhibited the best activity against C. neoformans (MIC of 0.078 mg/ml).

Clinical evaluation of extract of Cajanus cajan (Ciklavit) in sickle cell anaemia

The major pathology in sickle cell anaemia (SCA) is sickling of red cells due to the precipitation of reduced haemoglobin. We report our experience with extract of Cajanus cajan as a possible antisickling agent by determining changes, if any, in clinical and laboratory features of the disease in patients given the extract in a single-blind placebo-controlled study. One hundred patients with steady-state SCA were randomized into treatment and placebo arms. The extract/placebo were administered twice daily to the subjects. Weight, hepatosplenomegaly, blood levels of biliurubin, urea, creatinine, and packed cell volume (PCV) were monitored over a 6-month period. Recall episodes of pain 6 months before enrolment were compared with episodes of pains recorded during the treatment period. Twenty-six cases (55.3 per cent) had hepatomegaly on enrolment. This significantly reduced to 33.3 per cent at 6 months (p = 0.03); but increased in the placebo arm (p > 0.05). The total number of recall painful episodes in cases was 207 (mean 4.4 +/- 10.3 (SD), range 0-60) and fell to 191 (mean 4.2 +/- 4.4 (SD), range 0-16); p = 0.03. Episodes of pain increased from 109 in controls (mean 2.6 +/- 5.0 (SD), range 0-26) to 164 (mean 3.9 +/- 4.3 (SD), range 0-22); p = 0.01. Mean PCV in the cases showed no appreciable changes (p = 0.1) but there was a significant increase in the controls (p = 0.02). In conclusion, the extract may cause a reduction of painful crises and may ameliorate the adverse effects of sickle cell anaemia on the liver. The mechanism of action remains to be determined.

Antiplasmodial constituents of Cajanus cajan

Bioactivity-guided fractionation of extracts of roots and leaves of Cajanus cajan afforded 8 compounds: betulinic acid, biochanin A, cajanol, genistein and 2'-hydroxygenistein, longistylin A and C, and pinostrobin. The two stilbenes, longistylin A and C, and betulinic acid showed a moderately high in vitro activity against the chloroquine-sensitive Plasmodium falciparum strain 3D7.

The kinetics of reversal of pre-sickled erythrocytes by the aqueous extract of Cajanus cajan seeds

The aqueous methanol extract (3:1, v/v) of the seeds of Cajanus cajan was investigated for antisickling properties. The extract possessed significant antisickling activity and was found to be concentration-dependent. The kinetics of reversal of presickled erythrocyte (HbSS) cells using the extract at 0.5 mg/mL, 1.0 mg/mL, 1.5 mg/mL, 2.0 mg/mL and 2.5 mg/mL showed first-order kinetics with rate constants of 5.833 x 10(-3) min(-1), 6.143 x 10(-3) min(-1), 5.957 x 10(-3) min(-1) 6.00 x 10(-3) min(-1) and 6.046 x 10(-3) min(-1), respectively, and with an average half-life 115.6 min. Phytochemical screening of the extract revealed the presence of free amino acids, phenolic compounds, tannins, globulins and saponins. These results show that the extract has potential use in the management of painful episodes experienced by sickle cell patients.

Prophylactic effect of multi-herbal extract 'Agbo-Iba' on malaria induced in mice

OBJECTIVE

To determine the efficacy of a multi-herbal preparation extract of 'Agbo-Iba' on rodent malaria induced in mice.

DESIGN

An experimental design in which mice were divided into four groups A,B,C,D representing control, prophylactic, chloroquine and 'Agbo-Iba' groups respectively. Each mouse was intraperitoneally inoculated with Plasmodium yoelii nigeriensis and treated with oral herbal extract or chloroquine syrup depending on group.

SETTING

College of Medicine of the University of Lagos Medical Microbiology and Parasitology Laboratory.

SUBJECTS

One hundred and twenty male and female albino mice aged 10-12 weeks with an average weight of 25 grams.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The herbal extract was effective, preventing the development of parasitaemia in the prophylactic group of mice.

RESULTS

After intraperitoneal inoculation of Plasmodium yoelii nigeriensis, a prepatent period of two days was observed before parasitaemia was established in all but the prophylactic group of mice. Induced infection was promptly aborted with oral chloroquine treatment in group C, while in groups A and D, infection terminated fatally. Group B mice appeared normal throughout the duration of investigation with 100% survival rate.

CONCLUSION

'Agbo-Iba' extract has some prophylactic action against malaria induced in mice with no apparent significant side effects.