In vitro anticancer screening of South African plants

Differential Cytotoxic Potential of Acridocarpus orientalis Leaf and Stem Extracts with the Ability to Induce Multiple Cell Death Pathways

This study systematically analyzed the anticancer potential of Acridocarpus orientalis (AO), a traditional medicinal plant of the Arabian Peninsula/East Africa known for its anti-inflammatory and pain relief properties. Tests of serial organic fractions from methanolic extracts of its leaves and stems revealed that only some fractions showed anti-proliferative potential with the dichloromethane fraction from leaves (AOD (L)) showing the most cytotoxic effect against both breast (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) and cervical (HeLa) cancer cell lines. The n-butanol fraction from the stems (AOB (S)), on the other hand, was more effective against cervical cancer cells and did not harm the normal cells. Further characterization of the mode of cell killing revealed that AOD (L) depended more on non-apoptotic pathways for its cytotoxicity in breast cancer cells, while it could activate some apoptosis and necroptosis in HeLa cells. The AOB (S) fraction could primarily activate apoptosis and some necroptosis in HeLa cells. Both fractions perturbed autophagy, but in a dissimilar manner. Thus, different parts of A. orientalis revealed variable potential to induce cell death in cancer cells via apoptotic and non-apoptotic pathways, making A. orientalis a valuable plant for the exploration of anticancer bioactive reagents, some of which may be protective for normal cells.

Natural Products and Synthetic Analogs as a Source of Antitumor Drugs

Cancer is a heterogeneous disease and one of the major issues of health concern, especially for the public health system globally. Nature is a source of anticancer drugs with abundant pool of diverse chemicals and pharmacologically active compounds. In recent decade, some natural products and synthetic analogs have been investigated for the cancer treatment. This article presents the utilization of natural products as a source of antitumor drugs.

A comprehensive characterization of polyphenols by LC-ESI-QTOF-MS from Melipona quadrifasciata anthidioides geopropolis and their antibacterial, antioxidant and antiproliferative effects

The geopropolis is a unique type of propolis produced by some stingless bee species. This product is known in folk medicine for its pharmacological properties, mainly antimicrobial and antioxidant, but there are few scientific studies that prove these properties. The objective of this study was to evaluate the phenolic composition and the antimicrobial, antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of Melipona quadrifasciata geopropolis. The phenolic characterization of the geopropolis ethanolic extract was evaluated by LC-ESI-QTOF-MS. The antimicrobial activity was carried out against Gram-positive (including multiresistant microorganisms), negative and yeast. The synergistic effect was evaluated in association with Sulfamethoxazole + Trimethoprim. DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, ORAC and HPLC on-line were used to evaluate the antioxidant activity. Antiproliferative activity was assessed by the sulforhodamine B assay. Flavonoids and phenolic acids were identified in the extract, which showed promising antimicrobial activity, partially synergistic effect and antioxidant activity.

Identification and Characterization of the Caspase-Mediated Apoptotic Activity of Teucrium mascatense and an Isolated Compound in Human Cancer Cells

Plants of the genus Teucrium (Lamiaceae or Labiatae family) are known historically for their medicinal value. Here, we identify and characterize the anticancer potential of T. mascatense and its active compound, IM60, in human cancer cells. The anti-proliferative effect of a T. mascatense methanol extract and its various fractions were analyzed in MCF-7 and HeLa cells in a dose- and time dependent manner. The dichloromethane fraction (TMDF) was observed to be the most effective with cytotoxicity against a more expanded series of cell lines, including MDA-MB-231. A time and dose-dependent toxicity profile was also observed for IM60; it could induce rapid cell death (within 3 h) in MCF-7 cells. Activation of caspases and PARP, hallmarks of apoptotic cell death pathways, following treatment with TMDF was demonstrated using western blot analysis. Inversion of the phosphatidylserine phospholipid from the inner to the outer membrane was confirmed by annexin V staining that was inhibited by the classical apoptosis inhibitor, Z-VAK-FMK. Changes in cell rounding, shrinkage, and detachment from other cells following treatment with TMDF and IM60 also supported these findings. Finally, the potential of TMDF and IM60 to induce enzymatic activity of caspases was also demonstrated in MCF-7 cells. This study, thus, not only characterizes the anticancer potential of T. mascatense, but also identifies a lead terpenoid, IM60, with the potential to activate anticancer cell death pathways in human cancer cells.

Potential of South African medicinal plants targeting the reduction of Aβ42 protein as a treatment of Alzheimer's disease

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Twenty South African medicinal plant species were selected by conducting a literature review based on the relevant information of their reported traditional medicinal uses and scientific reports against Alzheimer's disease, dementia, anxiety, mental illness, depression, acetylcholinesterase inhibition, headache, epilepsy, convulsion, hysteria, and sedative effects.

AIM OF STUDY

The goal of this study was to investigate the biological activity of the traditionally used medicinal plant extracts against Alzheimer's disease by in vitro screening of the extracts to determine their potential to decrease levels of Aβ42 protein.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Different plant parts (leaves, stem, bark, and stalks) of twenty selected plants were collected from the Manie van der Schijff Botanical Garden, University of Pretoria. Plant parts were dried, ground and then extracted using DCM:MeOH (1:1). We measured the levels of β-amyloid precursor protein proteolytic products in HeLa cells stably transfected with APP carrying the Swedish mutation using ELISA.

RESULTS

Of 33 plant extract 10 (30.3%) were found active based on the potential to significantly reduce the production of Aβ42. Amongst them extracts of leaves of Xysmalobium undulatum (Apocynaceae), leaves of Cussonia paniculata (Araliaceae) and leaves of Schotia brachypetala (Fabaceae) potently decreased the production of Aβ42 by 77.3 ± 0.5%, 57.5 ± 1.3%, and 44.8 ± 0.1%, respectively. X. undulatum and S. brachypetala enhanced non-amyloidogenic processing of β-amyloid precursor protein, thereby decreasing Aβ42 level. We also showed that C. paniculata induced the decrease of Aβ42 level through inhibiting APP processing. In addition, we isolated two cardenolides, compound [A] and [B], from X. undulatum and found that they potently decreased the Aβ42 production.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that the extract of X. undulatum, C. paniculata, and S. brachypetala have potential to be developed for Alzheimer's disease treatment. These active extracts and compounds are considered for further studies which examine their efficacy towards the reduction of Aβ42 through inhibiting APP process.

Resveratrol derivatives from Commiphora africana (A. Rich.) Endl. display cytotoxicity and selectivity against several human cancer cell lines

Commiphora africana (A. Rich.) Endl. (Burseraceae) is a medicinal plant widely used in Nigerian ethnomedicine. The in vitro cytotoxicity of the stem bark extract of C. africana and isolated cytotoxic compounds was investigated. Three resveratrol derivatives: (E)-resveratrol 3-O-rutinoside (1), 5-methoxy-(E)-resveratrol 3-O-rutinoside (2), and pinostilbene (3), together with 3-hydroxy-5-methoxybenzoic acid (4) were isolated from the methanol fraction of C. africana. Their structures were determined by extensive analysis of their HREIMS and NMR spectra. The cytotoxicity of the isolated compounds against four human carcinoma cells was determined using the MTT assay. Compound 1 displayed the highest antiproliferative effect on the cell lines, with IC₅₀ values of 16.80, 21.74, 17.89, and 17.44 μM, against MCF7, A549, PC3, and HepG2 human cancer cell lines, respectively. In addition, compounds 1-3 showed low toxicity against normal human prostate cell line, with selectivity indices greater than five across the carcinoma cells, indicating that the compounds possess potential in the development of low-toxicity chemotherapeutic agents. These results support the traditional use of this plant in the treatment of cancer.

Traditional medical uses of Drimia species in terms of phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology

Drimia genus includes plants that used from ancient time for various ailments such as dropsy, respiratory ailment, bone and joint complications, skin disorders, epilepsy and cancer. Toxic properties of some Drimia species also were noted by ancient scientists and these plants have been traditionally used for rat control. Bufadienolides have been identified as the main constituents in the genus of Drimia. Phenolics, sterols, protein and some of other phytochemicals have been also isolated from these plants. Pharmacological and clinical studies have strongly approved their effect on cardiovascular system. Extracts and compounds isolated from Drimia species showed biological activities such as antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and insecticidal effects through several in vivo and in vitro studies. Moreover, cytotoxic and antitumor activities which may be related to bufadienolide content of these plants have been considered by many researchers. Traditional therapeutic values of these plants for treating respiratory and rheumatic ailments as well as skin disorders are needed to be validated through more researches. Toxic effects of these plants and isolated compounds have been investigated through several in vivo studies. Drimia plants and their isolated compounds have narrow therapeutic index, so patients should be prohibited from applying these plants without medical supervision and should be informed about the main intoxication symptoms before starting treatment. Moreover, interaction of Drimia plants with other constituents of traditional herbal mixtures as well as chemical and biological modalities for reducing toxicity of bufadienolide compounds can be subjected for future studies.

Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray as a medicinal plant: A comprehensive review of its ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, pharmacotoxicology and clinical relevance

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Tithonia diversifolia (TD) is widely valued in several cultures for its medicinal properties. A comprehensive review of the current understanding of this plant species is required due to emerging concerns over its efficacy, toxicity and allergenic potential.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

We critically summarized the current evidence on the botany, traditional use, phytochemistry, pharmacology and safety of TD, with the view to provide perspectives for developing more attractive pharmaceuticals of plant origin, but also to lay a new foundation for further investigations on this plant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A preliminary consultation of search engines such as Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect and other published/unpublished resources provided an overview of extant literature on TD. Then, we meticulously screened all titles, abstracts and full-texts to establish consistency in the application of inclusion criteria. Studies were considered for inclusion if they dealt with taxonomy, global distribution, local and traditional knowledge, phytochemistry, toxicity and biological effects.

RESULTS

1856 articles were retrieved among which 168 were revised and included. Several studies conducted on cell lines and animals provided supporting evidence for some ethnomedicinal claims of extracts from TD. Short-term use of Tithonia extracts were effective and well-tolerated in animals when taken at lower doses. Both the toxic and therapeutic effects were attributed to bioactive principles naturally occurring in this species including sesquiterpene lactones, chlorogenic acid and flavonoids.

CONCLUSIONS

T. diversifolia is a valuable source of bioactive compounds with significant therapeutic implications and favourable safety index. However, more rigorously designed investigations are needed to recommend the whole plant or its active ingredients as a medication, and should focus on understanding the multi-target network pharmacology of the plant, clarifying the effective doses as well as identifying the potential interactions with prescribed drugs or other chemicals.

Ethnobotany, phytochemistry and pharmacology of Arctotis arctotoides (L.f.) O. Hoffm.: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Arctotis arctotoides (Asteraceae) is part of the genus Arctotis. Arctotis is an African genus of approximately 70 species that occur widely in the African continent with diverse medicinal values. This plant is used for the treatment of indigestion and catarrh of the stomach, epilepsy, topical wounds and skin disorders among the ethnic groups in South Africa and reported to have a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The aim of the present review is to appraise the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological potential, analytical methods and safety issues of A. arctotoides. Additionally, this review will help to fill the existing gaps in knowledge and highlight further research prospects in the field of phytochemistry and pharmacology.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information on A. arctotoides was collected from various resources, including books on African medicinal herbs and Zulu medicinal plants, theses, reports and the internet databases such as SciFinder, Google Scholar, Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Mendeley by using a combination of various meaningful keywords. This review surveys the available literature of the species from 1962 to April 2017.

RESULTS

In vitro and in vivo studies of the medicinal properties of A. arctotoides were reviewed. The main isolated and identified compounds were reported as sesquiterpenes, farnesol derivatives, germacranolide, guaianolides and some steroids, of which, nine were reported as antimicrobial. Monoterpenoids and sesquiterpenoids were the predominant essential oil compound classes of the leaves, flowers, stems and roots. The present review revealed potential pharmacological properties such as anti-oxidant, antibacterial, antifungal and anticancer activities of plant extracts as well as isolated compounds. Moreover, the review reports the safety profile (toxicity) of the crude extracts that had been screened on brine shrimps, rats and human cell lines.

CONCLUSIONS

The present review has focused on the phytochemistry, botany, ethnopharmacology, biological activities and toxicological information of A. arctotoides. On the basis of reported data, A. arctotoides has emerged as a good source of natural medicine for the treatment of microbial infections, skin diseases, anti-inflammatory and anticancer agents and also provides new insights for further isolation of new bioactive compounds, especially the discovery of antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anticancer novel therapeutic lead drug molecules. Additionally, intensive investigations regarding pharmacological properties, safety assessment and efficacy with their mechanism of action could be future research interests before starting clinical trials for medicinal practices.

Ent-abietane diterpenoids from Suregada zanzibariensis Baill. (Euphorbiaceae), their cytotoxic and anticancer properties

The stem bark extract of Suregada zanzibariensis afforded a previously undescribed ent-abietane diterpenoid trivially named mangiolide (1) and a known jolkinolide B (2) via anticancer bioassay-guided fractionation. The CH₂Cl₂:MeOH extract of S. zanzibariensis was initially analysed for its anticancer properties against three cancer cell lines, renal (TK10), melanoma (UACC62), and breast (MCF7) and was found to be potent at low μg/mL ranges. Compound 1, 6α-acetoxy-14-keto-ent-abieta-7(8),13(15)-diene-16,12-olide (mangiolide) inhibited the growth of renal (TK10) with a GI₅₀ of 0.02 μg/mL; a GI₅₀ of 0.03 μg/mL for melanoma (UACC62) and a GI₅₀ of 0.05 μg/mL for breast (MCF7) cancer cell lines. Compound 2, 8,13-diepoxy-13,15-ent-abietene-16,12-olide (jolkinolide B) inhibited the growth (GI₅₀) of the cell lines at 3.31 μg/mL for renal (TK10), 0.94 μg/mL for melanoma (UACC62) and 2.99 μg/mL for the breast (MCF7). The structures were established on the basis of their spectroscopic analysis and the absolute stereostructures assigned using electronic circular dichroism (ECD).

Ethnobotanical investigation on medicinal plants in Algoz area (South Kordofan), Sudan

BACKGROUND

The inhabitants of western Sudan use traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments due to lack of medical doctors and unaffordable prices of pharmaceutical products. The present study is the first documentation of the traditional plant knowledge on medicinal uses of plants by healers in Algoz (South Kordofan), Sudan.

METHOD

Ethnobotanical data were collected over a period from March to November 2015 using semi-structured interviews with 30 healers (24 male and 6 female) living in the investigated area. Quantitative indices such as use categories, use value (UV) and informant consensus factor (ICF) were intended to evaluate the importance of medicinal plant species.

RESULTS

A total of 94 medicinal plants, which belong to 45 families and 81 genera, were recorded in the study area. The most represented families are Leguminosae with 20 species followed by Combretaceae (6 species), Rubiaceae (5 species) and Asteraceae (4 species). The reported species were belonging to herbs (43%), trees (28%), shrubs (22%), climbers (4%) and parasites (3%). Root and stem (21% each) were the most plant parts used. A majority of remedies are administered orally (67%) where infusion (36%) and maceration (32%) are the most used methods. The highest ICF (0.87) was reported for poisonous animal bites followed by urinary system diseases (0.89), blood system disorders (0.88) and gynaecological diseases (0.87). Anastatica hierochuntica, Ctenolepis cerasiformis, Echinops longifolius, Cleome gynandra, Maerua pseudopetalosa, Martynia annua, Oldenlandia uniflora, Opuntia ficus-indica, Solanum dubium, Sonchus cornutus, Tribulus terrestris and Drimia maritima were reported for the first time in this study.

CONCLUSION

The number of medicinal plants reported in this paper reflects evidence that Algoz area had a high diversity of medicinal plants which will continue to play an important role in the healthcare system in the study area.

Antioxidative, Antiproliferative and Antimicrobial Activities of Phenolic Compounds from Three Myrcia Species

Myrcia bella Cambess., Myrcia fallax (Rich.) DC. and Myrcia guianensis (Aubl.) DC. (Myrtaceae) are trees found in Brazilian Cerrado. They have been widely used in folk medicine for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, hemorrhagic and infectious diseases. Few reports have been found in the literature connecting their phenolic composition and biological activities. In this regard, we have profiled the main phenolic constituents of Myrcia spp. leaves extracts by ESI(−)Q-TOF-MS. The main constituents found were ellagic acid (M. bella), galloyl glucose isomers (M. guianensis) and hexahydroxydiphenic (HHDP) acid derivatives (M. fallax). In addition, quercetin and myricetin derivatives were also found in all Myrcia spp. extracts. The most promising antioxidant activity, measured by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity, was found for M. fallax extracts (EC50 8.61 ± 0.22 µg·mL−1), being slightly less active than quercetin and gallic acid (EC50 2.96 ± 0.17 and 2.03 ± 0.02 µg·mL−1, respectively). For in vitro antiproliferative activity, M. guianensis showed good activity against leukemia (K562 TGI = 7.45 µg·mL−1). The best antimicrobial activity was observed for M. bella and M. fallax to Escherichia coli (300 and 250 µg·mL−1, respectively). In conclusion, the activities found are closely related to the phenolic composition of these plants.

Biological activity, quantitative structure-activity relationship analysis, and molecular docking of xanthone derivatives as anticancer drugs

Background

Xanthone derivatives have a wide range of pharmacological activities, such as those involving antibacterial, antiviral, antimalarial, anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, antiprotozoal, and anticancer properties. Among these, we investigated the anticancer properties of xanthone. This research aimed to analyze the biological activity of ten novel xanthone derivatives, to investigate the most contributing-descriptors for their cytotoxic activities, and to examine the possible mechanism of actions of xanthone compound through molecular docking.

Materials and methods

The cytotoxic tests were carried out on WiDR and Vero cell lines, by a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay method. The structural features required for xanthone’s anticancer activity were conducted by using the semi-empirical Austin Model-1 method, and continued with quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) analysis using BuildQSAR program. The study of the possible mechanism of actions of the selected xanthone compound was done through molecular docking with PLANTS.

Results

The three novel xanthone derivatives (compounds 5, 7, and 8) exhibited cytotoxic activity with compound 5 showed the highest degree of cytotoxicity at concentration 9.23 µg/mL (37.8 µM). The following best equation model was obtained from the BuildQSAR calculation: log 1/IC₅₀ = −8.124 qC1 −35.088 qC2 −6.008 qC3 + 1.831 u + 0.540 logP −9.115 (n = 10, r = 0.976, s = 0.144, F = 15.920, Q2 = 0.651, SPRESS = 0.390). This equation model generated 15 proposed new xanthone compounds with better-predicted anticancer activities. A molecular docking study of compound 5 showed that xanthone formed binding interactions with some receptors involved in cancer pathology, including telomerase, tumor-promoting inflammation (COX-2), and cyclin-dependent kinase-2 (CDK2) inhibitor.

Conclusion

The results suggested that compound 5 showed the best cytotoxic activity among the xanthone derivatives tested. QSAR analysis showed that the descriptors contributed to xanthone’s cytotoxic activity were the net atomic charge at qC1, qC2, and qC3 positions, also dipole moment and logP. Compound 5 was suspected to be cytotoxic by its inhibition of telomerase, COX-2, and CDK2 receptors.

Breast cancer in Africa: prevalence, treatment options, herbal medicines, and socioeconomic determinants

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women worldwide. GLOBOCAN estimated about 1.7 million new cases of breast cancer diagnoses worldwide and about 522,000 deaths in 2012. The burden of breast cancer mortality lies in the developing low-income and middle-income countries, where about 70% of such deaths occur. The incidence of breast cancer is also rising in low-income and middle-income countries in Africa as trend towards urbanization, and adoption of Western lifestyles increases. In general, the triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) subtype tends to be frequent in women of African ancestry. What are the factors contributing to this prevalence? Are there genetic predispositions to TNBC in African women? This review addresses these questions and provides an update on the incidence, survival, and mortality of breast cancer in Africans, with a focus on sub-Saharan Africans. We have also addressed factors that could account for ethical disparities in incidence and mortality. Further, we have highlighted challenges associated with access to essential drug and to healthcare treatment in some African countries and outlined alternative/herbal treatment methods that are increasingly implemented in Africa and other developing nations.

RANDOMIZED ANTICANCER AND CYTOTOXICITY ACTIVITIES OF GUIBOURTIA COLEOSPERMA AND DIOSPYROS CHAMAETHAMNUS

BACKGROUND

Plants have consistently proven to be a reliable and yet not fully explored source of medicines. In light of this, there is a constant demand for new treatment regimens for cancer. Namibia has a rich diversity of plant species of over 4300 with 17 % of them being endemic to Namibia. Plants growing in Namibia's diverse climatic zones produce many secondary metabolites as part of adaptation to their environment. This article focused on the screening of such phytochemicals and their cytotoxic and anticancer properties in vitro. Two Namibian plants Diospyros chamaethamnus and Guibourtia coleosperma were randomly selected for this purpose.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The plants were screened for the presence of coumarins, alkaloids, flavonoids, anthraquinones, steroids and terpenoids using thin layer chromatography. Anticancer screening was performed on a panel of three cancer cell lines, while cytotoxicity was determined using a human fibroblast cell line, both using the SRB method.

RESULTS

Alkaloids, anthraquinones, flavonoids and steroids were detected in both organic and aqueous extracts of the two plants. The organic plant extracts had a greater anti-proliferative effect on the cancer cell lines than the aqueous extracts; the D. chamaethamnus organic root extract was the most potent with an IC₅₀ of 16.08, 29.12 and 24.67 µg/mL against TK10, UACC62 and MCF7 cells, respectively. Furthermore, cytotoxicity analysis revealed the non-toxic nature of the extracts, except for the organic root extract of D. chamaethamnus that showed significant cytotoxicity (IC₅₀ 13.03 µg/mL).

CONCLUSION

D. chamaethamnus is a potential candidate for the development of a plant based cancer treatment. The study showed the value of random screening in drug discovery from plants for pharmacological activity that is unrelated to their ethnomedicinal uses.

An overview on Leucosidea sericea Eckl. & Zeyh.: A multi-purpose tree with potential as a phytomedicine

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Leucosidea sericea (the sole species in this genus) is a tree species found in southern Africa and possesses several therapeutical effects against infectious diseases in humans and livestock. This review aims to document and summarize the botany, phytochemical and biological properties of Leucosidea sericea.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using the term 'Leucosidea sericea', we systematically searched literature including library catalogues, academic dissertations and databases such as PubMed, SciFinder, Web of Science, Google Scholar and Wanfang. Taxonomy of the species was validated using 'The Plant List' (www.theplantlist.org).

RESULTS

Leucosidea sericea remains a widely used species among the different ethnic groups in southern Africa. The species is a rich source of approximately 50 essential oils and different classes of phytochemicals (phenolics, phloroglucinols, cholestane triterpenoids, alkaloids and saponins) which may account for their diverse biological properties. Documented biological activities which were mainly observed under in vitro systems included antimicrobial, anti-parasitic, antioxidant, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition and anti-inflammatory properties. Preliminary safety tests on Leucosidea sericea extracts suggest moderate cytotoxic effects based on a few cell lines that were investigated.

CONCLUSIONS

Leucosidea sericea possesses diverse medicinal potential with the antimicrobial, anti-parasitic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities being the most prominent. The relative abundance and tendency of Leucosidea sericea to evade in nature suggest an abundant reservoir of raw materials for potential commercialization (upon validation of its pharmacological potential). However, more stringent investigations on the extracts (and isolated bioactive compounds) focusing on the mode of actions, which will inevitably unravel their pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and clinical relevance remain pertinent.

Pogostone induces autophagy and apoptosis involving PI3K/Akt/mTOR axis in human colorectal carcinoma HCT116 cells

ETHNOPHAMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Pogostemon cablin is a medicinal herb widely used to treat gastrointestinal diseases in many Asian countries. Pogostone is an important constituent of Pogostemon cablin, and possesses various bioactivitys. In this study, we performed to investigate the anti-colorectal tumor property of Pogostone by inducing aurophagy and apoptosis in human colorectal cancer cells, and to define the potential molecular mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In vitro, The anti-tumor activity of pogostone was assessed using MTT assay. Autophagy was monitored by transmission electron microscopy observation and mRFP-GFP-LC3 fluorescence analysis in colorectal tumor cell line. Apoptosis was measured by flow cytometry and annexinV-FITC/PI staining. The protein expressions or activition of LC3-Ⅱ, AKT, mTOR, caspase-3 and caspase-7 were detected through western blotting. In vivo, the anti-tumor effect of pogostone was tested with HCT116 colorectal tumor cells transplantation tumor model. The expression of Ki-67 was determined by Immunohistochemistry staining and the apoptosis was evaluated using TUNEL assay.

RESULTS

In vitro, pogostone exhibits significant anti-tumor activity against human cancer cell lines, especially for HCT116 (18.7±1.93μg/ml). Transmission electron microscopy observation, mRFP-GFP-LC3 fluorescence analysis, flow cytometry and assay and western blotting detection revealed that the anti-colorectal tumor activity of pogostone was dependent on inducing autophagy and apoptosis through up-regulating the expression of LC3-Ⅱ, cleaved caspase-7 and caspase-3, and decreasing the phosphorylation of AKT/mTOR. In vivo, 150mg/kg pogostone inhibited the HCT116 tumor growth in immunodeficient mice with an inhibitory rate of 43.3%, decreased the expression of Ki67, and induced apoptosis in three days.

CONCLUSION

Pogostone showed anti-colorectal tumor effects by inducing autophagy and apoptosis involving PI3K/Akt/mTOR axis. Thus, pogostone may be a promising lead compound to be further developed for cancer therapy.

Cytochrome P450 and P-Glycoprotein-Mediated Interactions Involving African Herbs Indicated for Common Noncommunicable Diseases

Herbal remedies are regularly used to complement conventional therapies in the treatment of various illnesses in Africa. This may be because they are relatively cheap and easily accessible and are believed by many to be safe, cause fewer side effects, and are less likely to cause dependency. On the contrary, many herbs have been shown to alter the pharmacokinetics of coadministered allopathic medicines and can either synergize or antagonize therapeutic effects as well as altering the toxicity profiles of these drugs. Current disease burden data point towards epidemiological transitions characterised by increasing urbanization and changing lifestyles, risk factors for chronic diseases like hypertension, diabetes, and cancer which often present as multimorbidities. As a result, we highlight African herb-drug interactions (HDIs) modulated via cytochrome P450 enzyme family (CYP) and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and the consequences thereof in relation to antihypertensive, antidiabetic, and anticancer drugs. CYPs are enzymes which account for to up to 70% of drug metabolism while P-gp is an efflux pump that extrudes drug substrates out of cells. Consequently, regulation of the relative activity of both CYP and P-gp by African herbs influences the effective drug concentration at the site of action and modifies therapeutic outcomes.

Medicinal Plants Used by Traditional Healers in Sangurur, Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya

Background:

Although herbal medical products are still widely used in Kenya, many of the medicinal plants used by traditional medical practitioners (TMPs) have not been documented, despite several challenges that are now threatening the sustainability of the practice.

Objective:

To document the medicinal plants and healing methods used by TMPs in a region of Kenya with several recognized herbalists for potential research.

Materials and Methods:

Semi-structured interviews, group discussions, and direct observations were used to collect ethnopharmacological information. The participant's bio-data, clinical conditions treated, methods of treatment, medicinal plants used, methods of preparation and administration, and dosage forms were recorded.

Results:

A total of 99 medicinal plants and 12 complementary preparations employed in the treatment of 64 medical conditions were identified. The most widely used plant was Rotala tenella which was used to treat nine medicinal conditions; seven each for Aloe tweediae and Dovyalis abyssinica; and six each for Basella alba and Euclea divinorum. The plants belonged to 55 families with Fabaceae family being the most frequently used (10), followed by Apocynaceae and Solanaceae, each with six species, respectively. We identified plants used to determine the sex of an unborn baby and those used to treat several conditions including anthrax and cerebral malaria and herbs used to detoxify meat from an animal that has died from anthrax. Of special interest was R. tenella which is used to prevent muscle injury.

Conclusions:

We have documented several plants with potential therapeutic effects. Further research may be conducted to determine their efficacy.

SUMMARY

The medicinal plants used by traditional healers in a community which still practices herbal medicine in Kenya were documented. A total of 99 medicinal plants and 12 complementary preparations employed in the treatment of 64 medical conditions were identified. Further research may be carried out in order to determine their therapeutic efficacies.

Abbreviations Used: F_ic: Informant consensus factor, N_ur: Number of use reports in each category, N_s: Number of reported species, TMPs: Traditional medical practitioners.

Lippia javanica (Burm.f.) Spreng.: Traditional and Commercial Uses and Phytochemical and Pharmacological Significance in the African and Indian Subcontinent

Lippia javanica occurs naturally in central, eastern, and southern Africa and has also been recorded in the tropical Indian subcontinent. The potential of L. javanica as herbal or recreational tea and herbal medicine and its associated phytochemistry and biological properties are reviewed. The extensive literature survey revealed that L. javanica is used as herbal tea and has ethnomedicinal applications such as in colds, cough, fever, malaria, wounds, diarrhoea, chest pains, bronchitis, and asthma. Multiple classes of phytochemicals including volatile and nonvolatile secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, amino acids, flavonoids, iridoids, and triterpenes as well as several minerals have been identified from L. javanica. Scientific studies on L. javanica indicate that it has a wide range of pharmacological activities which include anticancer, antiamoebic, antidiabetic, antimalarial, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiplasmodial, and pesticidal effects. Although many of the traditional uses of L. javanica have been validated by phytochemical and pharmacological studies, there are still some gaps where current knowledge could be improved. Lippia javanica is popular as both herbal and recreational tea, but there is need for more precise studies to evaluate the safety and clinical value of its main active crude and pure compounds and to clarify their mechanisms of action.

Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used to manage High Blood Pressure and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Bitterfontein, Western Cape Province, South Africa

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The aim of this study was to identify and document medicinal plants used to manage High Blood Pressure and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Bitterfontein, Western Cape Province, South Africa.

METHODS

One hundred and twelve (112) respondents were interviewed between August 2014 and September 2015 through semi-structured surveys to gather data on the percentage of people who had been diagnosed with High Blood Pressure and/or Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and to determine the frequency of medicinal plant and allopathic medicine use. Twelve (12) key respondents were subsequently selected, using a non-probability snowball sampling method. They were interviewed in-depth concerning their plant practices and assisted with plant collection.

RESULTS

Twenty-four plant (24) species belonging to 15 families were identified for the management of High Blood Pressure and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. The most frequently reported families were Asteraceae (20.8%), Lamiaceae (16.67%), Crassulaceae (8.33%) and Aizoaceae (8.33%). The remaining (45.54%) were evenly split over eleven families- Fabaceae, Amaryllidaceae, Anacardiaceae, Capparaceae, Geraniaceae, Apiaceae, Convolvulaceae, Apocynaceae, Rutaceae, Asphodelaceae and Thymelaeaceae. The most commonly used plant species overall was Lessertia frutescens (96.55%). The most frequently used plant parts included leaves (57.63%) roots/bulbs (15.25%) and stems (11.86%), mostly prepared as infusions or decoctions for oral administration.

CONCLUSIONS

Medicinal plants are widely used by High Blood Pressure and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus sufferers. They employ diverse plant species to manage both conditions. In addition, some sufferers often use prescribed allopathic medication, as well as medicinal plants, but at different intervals. Despite high usage the plants identified are not currently threatened (Red Data list status: least concern).

Medicinal plants used in Lesotho for treatment of reproductive and post reproductive problems

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Reproductive healthcare has been highlighted as a major challenge in Lesotho mainly due to the high prevalence of HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections. As a result other reproductive ailments have not received much attention, particularly because healthcare facilities are already limited and many of them are inaccessible. For these reasons, medicinal plants play a major role in primary healthcare system in the country, in addition the plants are easily accessible, more affordable, and their use forms part of the cultural heritage. However, documentation of medicinal plants used for reproductive ailments is scattered, more importantly the biological and pharmacological properties, as well as toxicity of many of these plants are not yet known.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To document the plants used by both male and female Basotho (residing in Lesotho) for the treatment of reproductive ailments, to explore their recorded biological and pharmacological effects as well as their toxicity, and to establish if these plants are used for similar purposes in other southern African cultures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The results stem from published findings of recent interviews of traditional medicinal practitioners in the Maseru District of Lesotho, first author's own experiences and observations from the Qacha's Nek District as well as comprehensive literature survey including numerous books and unpublished data. Electronic databases such as Google, Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect were also used to search for the chemical compounds, pharmacological activity, and toxicity of the plants.

RESULTS

A total of 87 plant species are reported to be used for the treatment of several reproductive problems such as infertility, complications associated with pregnancy (twelve plants are used to treat conditions such as colic, heartburn, nausea, and constipation), cleansing and/ or toning of the uterus (with a purpose either to induce pregnancy or to get rid of the placenta, for example Withania somnifera and Zantedeschia albomaculata), difficult childbirth, as well treatment of breast and cervical cancer, cysts, fibroids, and testicular tumours (e.g. Hypoxis hemerocallidea). For the toning of the uterus, it is common to use a combination of plants, e.g. Gunnera perpensa, Scabiosa columbaria, and Eriospermum ornithogaloides.

CONCLUSIONS

Of the 87 plants used for reproductive healthcare, the highest number (31) is used for the treatment of infertility (in both men and women). The pharmacological effects, active compounds, and toxicology of many of these plants are not yet known.

Eugenia aurata and Eugenia punicifolia HBK inhibit inflammatory response by reducing neutrophil adhesion, degranulation and NET release

BACKGROUND

Eugenia spp. are used in popular medicine in the treatment of pain, diabetes, intestinal disorders and cough. The aim of the work is to evaluate, ex vivo and in vivo, the anti-inflammatory activity of the hydroethanolic extracts of the leaves of Eugenia aurata (EA) and Eugenia punicifolia HBK (EP) upon neutrophils.

METHODS

Ex vivo, isolated human neutrophils were sensitized by Eugenia extracts (0.1-1000 μg/mL) and stimulated by PMA. In these conditions, different neutrophil activities related to inflammatory process were measured: adhesion, degranulation and NET release. Neutrophil viability and tumor line cells were monitored. In vivo, neutrophil influx was evaluated by peritonitis model performed in mice pretreated with different concentrations of Eugenia extracts. Phytochemical profile was assessed by mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

Ex vivo, EA and EP (1000 μg/mL) reduced cell adhesion and degranulation, respectively. NET release was inhibited by EA and EP. Anti-inflammatory activities occurred in the absence of cytotoxicity. In vivo, both EA as EP inhibited neutrophil migration. The phytochemical profile revealed that EA contains myricitrin, rutin, quinic acid and quercetin derivatives. EP presents gallic acid, quercetin derivatives, syringic acid, ellagic acid, monogalloyl-glucose, glycosyringic acid, mudanoside B, HHDP glucose isomer and digalloylglucose isomer. EA and EP inhibit neutrophil migration by different pathways.

CONCLUSION

Different chemical compositions may explain the anti-inflammatory effects described herein for EA and EP. Both extracts inhibit NET release but only EA reduces cell adhesion whereas EP decreases elastase secretion. This work contributes to the elucidation of cellular mechanisms related to the anti-inflammatory activity for leaves of E. aurata and E. punicifolia HBK.

Cytotoxicity of methanol extracts of Annona muricata, Passiflora edulis and nine other Cameroonian medicinal plants towards multi-factorial drug-resistant cancer cell lines

BACKGROUND

Cancer cells rapidly acquire resistance leading to treatment failures. In the present study, we have evaluated the cytotoxicity of 17 methanol extracts from 11 Cameroonian medicinal plants against the sensitive leukemia CCRF-CEM cells and the best ones were further tested on a panel of 8 other human cancer cell lines, including various MDR phenotypes as well as against the normal AML12 hepatocytes.

METHODS

The cytotoxicity of the extracts was determined using a resazurin reduction assay meanwhile flow cytometry was used to measure cell cycle, apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and reactive oxygen species.

RESULTS

In an initial screening using leukemia CCRF-CEM cells, ten extracts from five plants namely Alchornea floribunda, Annona muricata, Euphorbia prostata, Pachypodanthium staudtii and Passiflora edulis displayed IC50 values below 20 µg/mL. They were further tested in 8 other cell lines as well as in normal AML12 hepatocytes. All selected extracts were active against leukemia CEM/ADR5000 cells with IC50 value below 40 µg/mL. IC50 values ranging from 10.13 µg/mL (towards CEM/ADR5000 cells) to 72.01 µg/mL [towards resistant colon carcinoma HCT116 (p53-/-) cells] for Pachypodanthium staudtii roots and from 0.11 µg/mL (towards CCRF-CEM cells) to 108 µg/mL (towards P-glycoprotein-over-expressing CEM/ADR5000 cells) for doxorubicin were obtained in the eight other cancer cell lines studied. Extracts from Annona muricata leaves (AML) and seeds (AMS), and Passiflora edulis fruit (PEF) had IC50 values below 1 µg/mL against CCRF-CEM cells and below 10 µg/mL against its MDR subline CEM/ADR5000 cells. AML, AMS and PEF induced MMP-loss-mediated apoptosis in CCRF-CEM cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of the present study suggest that some of the tested plants namely Alchornea floribunda, Annona muricata, Euphorbia prostata, Pachypodanthium staudtii and Passiflora edulis represent a source of anticancer drugs. Annona muricata and Passiflora edulis are good cytotoxic plants that could be exploited to develop phytomedicine to fight mostly hematological cancers including MDR phenotypes.

Kigelia africana (Lam.) Benth. (Sausage tree): Phytochemistry and pharmacological review of a quintessential African traditional medicinal plant

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Kigelia africana is a quintessential African herbal medicinal plant with a pan-African distribution and immense indigenous medicinal and non-medicinal applications. The plant is use traditionally as a remedy for numerous disease such as use wounds healing, rheumatism, psoriasis, diarrhea and stomach ailments. It is also use as an aphrodisiac and for skin care.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The present review aims to compile an up-to-date review of the progress made in the continuous pharmacological and phytochemistry investigation of K. africana and the corresponding commercial and pharmaceutical application of these findings with the ultimate objective of providing a guide for future research on this plant.

METHOD

The scholarly information needed for this paper were predominantly sourced from the electronic search engines such as Google, Google scholar; publishing sites such as Elsevier, scienceDirect, BMC, PubMed; other scientific database sites for chemicals such as ChemSpider, PubChem, and also from online books.

RESULTS

Pharmacological investigations conducted confirm the anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant and anticancer activity of the extract of different parts of the plant. Bioactive constituents are found to be present in all parts of the plant. So far, approximately 150 compounds have been characterized from different part of the plant. Iridoids, naphthoquinones, flavonoids, terpenes and phenylethanoglycosides are the major class of compounds isolated. Novel compounds with potent antioxidant, antimicrobial and anticancer effect such as verbascoside, verminoside and pinnatal among others, have been identified. Commercial trade of K. africana has boosted in the las few decades. Its effect in the maintenance of skin has been recognized resulting in a handful of skin formulations in the market.

CONCLUSIONS

The pharmaceutical potentials of K. africana has been recognized and have witness a surge in research interest. However, till date, many of its traditional medicinal uses has not been investigated scientifically. Further probing of the existential researches on its pharmacological activity is recommended with the end-goal of unravelling the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, clinical relevance and possible toxicity and side effects of both the extract and the active ingredients isolated.

Inhibition of growth and induction of apoptosis in A549 cells by compounds from oxheart cabbage extract

BACKGROUND

Oxheart cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) is a member of the Brassica genus. Although some studies on the anticancer effects of extracts from oxheart cabbage have been reported, comprehensive information on the bioactive fractions and components from oxheart cabbage extracts is still lacking. The aim of this study was to isolate and identify the bioactive fractions and components from oxheart cabbage seeds using activity-guided isolation methods.

RESULTS

The cytotoxicity and apoptotic effects of fraction II, fraction III, iberverin, sulforaphane and iberin from oxheart cabbage seed extract were investigated. The results showed that all five components had inhibitory effects on the in vitro growth of A549 cells which were dose-dependent. These compounds also changed the morphology of A549 cells, and their inhibitory activity on A549 cells was as follows: sulforaphane > iberin > iberverin > fraction III > fraction II. The IC50 values were 3.53 ± 0.63, 4.93 ± 1.02, 7.07 ± 0.51, 15.56 ± 0.24 and 27.32 ± 0.63 µg mL(-1) respectively. Fraction II, fraction III, iberverin, sulforaphane and iberin induced cell apoptosis by increasing early apoptosis and late apoptosis/necrosis, and activation of caspase-3, -8 and -9.

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that the decrease in A549 cell viability by active compounds from oxheart cabbage seed extract was due to the induction of apoptosis. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry.

Cytotoxicity of South-African medicinal plants towards sensitive and multidrug-resistant cancer cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional medicine plays a major role for primary health care worldwide. Cancer belongs to the leading disease burden in industrialized and developing countries. Successful cancer therapy is hampered by the development of resistance towards established anticancer drugs.

AIM

In the present study, we investigated the cytotoxicity of 29 extracts from 26 medicinal plants of South-Africa against leukemia cell lines, most of which are used traditionally to treat cancer and related symptoms.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We have investigated the plant extracts for their cytotoxic activity towards drug-sensitive parental CCRF-CEM leukemia cells and their multidrug-resistant P-glycoprotein-overexpressing subline, CEM/ADR5000 by means of the resazurin assay. A panel of 60 NCI tumor cell lines have been investigated for correlations between selected phytochemicals from medicinal plants and the expression of resistance-conferring genes (ABC-transporters, oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes).

RESULTS

Seven extracts inhibited both cell lines (Acokanthera oppositifolia, Hypoestes aristata, Laurus nobilis, Leonotis leonurus, Plectranthus barbatus, Plectranthus ciliates, Salvia apiana). CEM/ADR5000 cells exhibited a low degree of cross-resistance (3.35-fold) towards the L. leonurus extract, while no cross-resistance was observed to other plant extracts, although CEM/ADR5000 cells were highly resistant to clinically established drugs. The log10IC50 values for two out of 14 selected phytochemicals from these plants (acovenoside A and ouabain) of 60 tumor cell lines were correlated to the expression of ABC-transporters (ABCB1, ABCB5, ABCC1, ABCG2), oncogenes (EGFR, RAS) and tumor suppressors (TP53). Sensitivity or resistance of the cell lines were not statistically associated with the expression of these genes, indicating that multidrug-resistant, refractory tumors expressing these genes may still respond to acovenoside A and ouabain.

CONCLUSION

The bioactivity of South African medicinal plants may represent a basis for the development of strategies to treat multidrug-resistant tumors either by phytotherapeutic approaches with whole plant preparations or by classical drug development with isolated compounds such as acovenoside A or ouabain.

Latex protein extracts from Calotropis procera with immunomodulatory properties protect against experimental infections with Listeria monocytogenes

BACKGROUND

The latex from the medicinal plant Calotropis procera is often used in folk medicine against infectious and inflammatory diseases.

PURPOSE

In this study, we investigate a protein fraction with immunomodulatory properties, named LPPI, against experimental infections, in vitro and in vivo, with a virulent strain of Listeria monocytogenes.

STUDY DESIGN

LPPI was exposed to cultured macrophages or Swiss mice and then challenged with L. monocytogenes.

METHODS

Peritoneal macrophages were obtained from Swiss mice, and cultured in 96-well microplates. Soluble latex proteins (LP) were subjected to fractionation by ion-exchange chromatography. The major peak (LPPI) was added into wells at 10 or 100µg/ml. Albumin (100µg/ml) was used for comparison between protein treatments. After incubation for 1h at 5% CO2/ 37°C, the supernatant was discarded and 0.2ml of L. monocytogenes overnight culture was added in the wells. Following 4h and 24h infection, the cytokine mRNA expression was evaluated as well as the number of intracellular colony forming units. Swiss mice (n=16) were injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) with LPPI (5 and 10mg/kg) while the control mice received albumin (10mg/kg) or LP (10mg/kg). After 24h, all animal groups were challenged with L. monocytogenes (10(6) CFU/ ml), also by i.p. route.

RESULTS

LPPI was not toxic to uninfected macrophages (pMØ) and significantly increased mRNA expression of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β and iNOS. Following infection, cell viability was reduced by 50% in albumin-treated pMØ (control); but only 17% in pMØ treated with LPPI at 100µg/ml. In this case, LPPI increased expression of TNF-α and IL-6 whereas the number of bacterial colony-forming units was reduced 100-fold in comparison to control groups. Swiss mice pretreated with LPPI showed dose-dependent survival rates that reached 80%, while mice that received albumin died 1-3 days after infection. After 24h infection, leukocyte migration to the infectious foci was high in LPPI-treated mice whereas the number of viable bacteria in the peritoneal fluid, liver and bloodstream were significantly reduced.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that LPPI present immunomodulatory properties that are beneficial for prevention of systemic bacterial infections caused by the intracellular bacteria L. monocytogenes.

Theobroma cacao: Review of the Extraction, Isolation, and Bioassay of Its Potential Anti-cancer Compounds

Plants have been a good source of therapeutic agents for thousands of years; an impressive number of modern drugs used for treating human diseases are derived from natural sources. The Theobroma cacao tree, or cocoa, has recently garnered increasing attention and become the subject of research due to its antioxidant properties, which are related to potential anti-cancer effects. In the past few years, identifying and developing active compounds or extracts from the cocoa bean that might exert anti-cancer effects have become an important area of health- and biomedicine-related research. This review provides an updated overview of T. cacao in terms of its potential anti-cancer compounds and their extraction, in vitro bioassay, purification, and identification. This article also discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the techniques described and reviews the processes for future perspectives of analytical methods from the viewpoint of anti-cancer compound discovery.

Antiproliferative effect of extracts and pyranonaphthoquinones obtained from Cipura paludosa bulbs

CONTEXT

Cipura paludosa Aubl. (Iridaceae) is widely used in folk medicine to treat several ailments. Experimental studies have confirmed its anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, and neuroprotective effects.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluates the possible antiproliferative potential of the crude methanol extract and three isolated compounds from the bulbs of C. paludosa.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Phytochemical analysis was carried out by conventional chromatographic techniques, and the resulting compounds were identified by NMR (1)H and (13)C. The antiproliferative activity was analysed using the sulforhodamine B assay.

RESULTS

Crude methanol extract of C. paludosa bulbs showed GI50 values of between 1.6 and 30.8 μg/mL. The naphthoquinone derivatives (eleutherine, isoeleutherine, and eleutherol) isolated from the bulbs of C. paludosa exhibited promising cytotoxicity against several human tumour cell lines, especially the two main compounds, eleutherine and isoeleutherine, against glioma and breast cancer cell lines, with TGI values of between 2.6 and 13.8 μg/mL.

CONCLUSION

Cipura paludosa bulbs produce active principles with relevant antiproliferative potential, such as naphthoquinone derivatives, identified as eleutherine, isoeleutherine, and eleutherol. This is the first report indicating C. paludosa with antiproliferative potential.

Medicinal Plants: Their Use in Anticancer Treatment

Globally cancer is a disease which severely effects the human population. There is a constant demand for new therapies to treat and prevent this life-threatening disease. Scientific and research interest is drawing its attention towards naturally-derived compounds as they are considered to have less toxic side effects compared to current treatments such as chemotherapy. The Plant Kingdom produces naturally occurring secondary metabolites which are being investigated for their anticancer activities leading to the development of new clinical drugs. With the success of these compounds that have been developed into staple drugs for cancer treatment new technologies are emerging to develop the area further. New technologies include nanoparticles for nano-medicines which aim to enhance anticancer activities of plant-derived drugs by controlling the release of the compound and investigating new methods for administration. This review discusses the demand for naturally-derived compounds from medicinal plants and their properties which make them targets for potential anticancer treatments.

Antiproliferative activity of flavonoids from Croton sphaerogynus Baill. (Euphorbiaceae)

Croton sphaerogynus is a shrub from the Atlantic Rain Forest in southeastern Brazil. A lyophilized crude EtOH extract from leaves of C. sphaerogynus, obtained by maceration at room temperature (seven days), was suspended in methanol and partitioned with hexane. The purified MeOH phase was fractionated over Sephadex LH-20 yielding five fractions (F1–F5) containing flavonoids, as characterized by HPLC-DAD and HPLC-MS analyses. The antiproliferative activity of the crude EtOH extract, MeOH and hexane phases, and fractions F1–F5 was evaluated on in vitro cell lines NCI-H460 (nonsmall cell lung), MCF-7 (breast cancer), and U251 (glioma). The MeOH phase showed activity (mean log GI₅₀ 0.54) higher than the hexane phase and EtOH extract (mean log GI₅₀ 1.13 and 1.19, resp.). F1 exhibited activity against NCI-H460 (nonsmall cell lung) (GI₅₀ 1.2 μg/mL), which could be accounted for the presence of flavonoids and/or diterpenes. F4 showed moderate activity (mean log GI₅₀ 1.05), while F5 showed weak activity (mean log GI₅₀ 1.36). It is suggested that the antiproliferative activity of the crude EtOH extract and MeOH phase is accounted for a synergistic combination of flavonoids and diterpenes.

Phytochemical screening and antioxidant, antimitotic, and antiproliferative activities of Trichodesma indicum shoot

BACKGROUND

Traditionally Trichodesma indicum has been used for its therapeutic effect in folk medicine that include anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anticancer properties. In this work, we validate the anticancer potential of the plant.

AIMS

To screen the shoot extracts T. indicum for their antimitotic and antiproliferative activities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The dried aerial parts of T. indicum were successively extracted with petroleum ether, successive chloroform extract (SCH), successive ethanol extract (SEE) and water. The plant extracts were subjected to study of in vitro antioxidant activity using 2,2'- diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, 2,2'- azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) radical inhibition systems. The extracts were also tested for their in vitro antimitotic activity in Allium cepa root and antiproliferative activity using the yeast model and five human cell lines (MCF-7, HOP-62, MOLT-4, HCT-15 and PRO).

RESULT AND CONCLUSION

The mitotic index for SCH and SEE was found to be 12.01 ± 1.34 and 12.99 ± 0.25 mg/mL, respectively. The IC50 value in the antiproliferative assay was found to be 30.14s-35.36 mg/mL for SCH and SEE respectively. Both SCH and SEE extracts showed significant antimitotic and antiproliferative activity when compared to the standard methothreaxate, vincreastine and adriamycin. Among the extracts, SEE showed strong inhibition against MCF-7 and MOLT-4 cell lines at concentration <30 μg/mL. Phytochemical analysis of extracts indicated the presence of β-sitosterol, gallic acid and catechin. Based on these results, it is concluded that T. indicum may be a good candidate for the treatment of a variety of cancer. Thus, its traditional use is validated.

Medicinal plants with potential anti-arthritic activity

ETHNO PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional medicinal plants are practiced worldwide for treatment of arthritis especially in developing countries where resources are meager. This review presents the plants profiles inhabiting throughout the world regarding their traditional usage by various tribes/ethnic groups for treatment of arthritis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Bibliographic investigation was carried out by analyzing classical text books and peer reviewed papers, consulting worldwide accepted scientific databases from the last six decades. Plants/their parts/extracts/polyherbal formulations, toxicity studies for arthritis have been included in the review article. The profiles presented also include information about the scientific name, family, dose, methodology along with mechanism of action and toxicity profile. Research status of 20 potential plant species has been discussed. Further, geographical distribution of research, plants distribution according to families has been given in graphical form.

RESULTS

485 plant species belonging to 100 families, traditionally used in arthritis are used. Among 100 plant families, malvaceae constitute 16, leguminasae 7, fabaceae 13, euphorbiaceae 7, compositae 20, araceae 7, solanaceae 12, liliaceae 9, apocynaceae, lauraceae, and rubiaceae 10, and remaining in lesser proportion. It was observed in our study that majority of researches are carried mainly in developing countries like India, China, Korea and Nigeria.

CONCLUSION

This review clearly indicates that list of medicinal plants presented in this review might be useful to researchers as well as practioners. This review can be useful for preliminary screening of potential anti-arthritis plants. Further toxicity profile given in the review can be useful for the researchers for finding the safe dose.

The in vitro cytotoxic activity of ethno-pharmacological important plants of Darjeeling district of West Bengal against different human cancer cell lines

Background

Plant derived components have attracted particular attention as an alternative source to battle several diseases including cancer. The variation in the climate, the geographical location and the rich ethnomedicinal traditions has made the Darjeeling Himalayas an abode of invaluable repository of traditional medicinal plants. In this study, we explored the in vitro anticancer properties of traditionally used medicinal plants from the Darjeeling hills against different human cancer cell lines.

Methods

The ethanolic leaf extracts of 30 medicinal plants were tested for their cytotoxicity against human breast adenocarcinoma cell line (MCF 7), human hepatocarcinoma cell line (HepG₂) and human cervix adenocarcinoma cell line (HeLa). The cytotoxicity was evaluated by performing MTT assay, trypan blue exclusion assay and morphological assessment under phase contrast inverted microscope. For the extracts which tested positive, IC₅₀ (the concentration that inhibited cell growth by 50%) was calculated. The extract(s) were further subjected to Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) to determine their phytochemical profile.

Results

Out of the 30 plant extracts tested, five plants, Artemisia indica, Eupatorium odoratum, Eupatorium adenophorum, Maesa macrophylla and Phlogacanthus thyrsiformis showed a > 50% growth inhibition of cancer cell lines at a concentration of 50 μg/ml. The sensitivity to different extracts varied according to the cell type under investigation. Of these plants, Maesa macrophylla, exhibited the most potent cytotoxicity against HeLa and MCF7 cell with IC₅₀ values of 9.55 μg/ml and 16.19 μg/ml respectively. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of coumarins, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, steroids and terpenes.

Conclusions

This is perhaps the first report of screening of traditional medicinal plants from Darjeeling district in West Bengal, India, for their cytotoxic activity against three human cancerous cell lines MCF7, HeLa and HepG₂. The extracts of Maesa macrophylla significantly inhibited the growth of HeLa and MCF7 cancerous cell lines and constituted of multiple known biologically active compounds. The present study may provide the landmark for further exploration of M. macrophylla for its potent anticancer constituents.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12906-015-0543-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.