The journey of boswellic acids from synthesis to pharmacological activities

There has been a lot of interest in using naturally occurring substances to treat a wide variety of chronic disorders in recent years. From the gum resin of Boswellia serrata and Boswellia carteri, the pentacyclic triterpene molecules known as boswellic acid (BA) are extracted. We aimed to provide a detailed overview of the origins, chemistry, synthetic derivatives, pharmacokinetic, and biological activity of numerous Boswellia species and their derivatives. The literature searched for reports of B. serrata and isolated BAs having anti-cancer, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, hypolipidemic, immunomodulatory, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, anti-asthmatic, and clastogenic activities. Our results revealed that the cytotoxic and anticancer effects of B. serrata refer to its triterpenoid component, including BAs. Three-O-acetyl-11-keto-BA was the most promising cytotoxic molecule among tested substances. Activation of caspases, upregulation of Bax expression, downregulation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB), and stimulation of poly (ADP)-ribose polymerase (PARP) cleavage are the primary mechanisms responsible for cytotoxic and antitumor effects. Evidence suggests that BAs have shown promise in combating a wide range of debilitating disease conditions, including cancer, hepatic, inflammatory, and neurological disorders.

Influence of Bile Acids on Clindamycin Hydrochloride Skin Permeability: In Vitro and In Silico Preliminary Study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Topical clindamycin formulations are widely used in clinical practice, but poor bioavailability and restricted skin penetration considerably limit their therapeutic efficacy. Penetration enhancement represents a promising and rational strategy to overcome the drawbacks of conventional topical pharmaceutical formulations. We aim to assess the influence of cholic acid (CA) and deoxycholic acid (DCA) on the permeability of clindamycin hydrochloride by performing the in vitro skin parallel artificial membrane permeability assay (skin-PAMPA) at two relevant pH values (5.5 and 6.5) and the interactions of tested substances with skin ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters in silico.

METHODS

After the incubation period, the clindamycin hydrochloride concentrations in both compartments were determined spectrophotometrically, and the apparent permeability coefficients (Papp) were calculated. Vienna LiverTox web service was used to predict the interactions of clindamycin and bile acids with potential drug transporters located in human skin.

RESULTS

Both CA and DCA at the highest studied concentration of 100 μM in the tested solutions increased the skin-PAMPA membrane permeability of clindamycin hydrochloride. This effect was more pronounced for CA and at a higher studied pH value of 6.5, which is characteristic of most dermatological indications treated with topical clindamycin preparations. Clindamycin transport may also be mediated by ABC transporters located in skin and facilitated in the presence of bile acids.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study provide a solid foundation for further research directed at the improvement of topical formulations using bile acids as penetration-enhancing excipients, as well as the therapeutic efficacy of clindamycin hydrochloride.

Safety, Efficacy and Attributes of 2.5% Selenium Sulfide Shampoo in the Treatment of Dandruff: A Single-Center Study

BACKGROUND

Selenium sulfide, available as a shampoo or topical lotion at 1%, or 2.5% concentrations in India, is used as a topical antiseborrheic and antifungal for the treatment of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and tinea versicolor. In the present study, the safety, efficacy, and attributes of 2.5% selenium sulfide shampoo were evaluated in Indian participants with dandruff.

METHODS

A single-center, single-arm, prospective, investigator-initiated, open-label, post-marketing interventional study was conducted on Indian subjects aged 18-70 years diagnosed with moderate dandruff who were prescribed 2.5% selenium sulfide shampoo every three days for four weeks. The primary endpoints were 1) reduction in total dandruff score assessed using a clinical grading scale for adherent and loose dandruff from baseline to weeks 1, 2, and 4, and 2) incidence of adverse events up to the end of the study. The key secondary endpoints were 1) participants' perception of shampoo attributes (dandruff reduction, scalp itch, scalp oiliness/greasiness, or fragrance) as assessed by a subjective self-assessment questionnaire post-first wash and at weeks 1, 2, and/or 4; 2) satisfaction with treatment as assessed by investigators and participants using a subjective self-assessment questionnaire at week 4; and 3) reduction in scalp sebum as assessed with a meibometer at weeks 2 and 4. Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test for continuous variables and the Chi-square test for categorical variables. A p-value of 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

RESULTS

Of 34 enrolled subjects, 30 completed the four-week study. The mean (standard deviation, SD) age of the study participants was 29.8 (7.87) years, with the majority being females (n=18; 60.0%). Mean (SD) total dandruff score significantly (p=0.001) reduced from a baseline score of 11.5 (2.15) to 7.17 (2.12) at week 1, 4.93 (1.72) at week 2, and 2.5 (1.17) at week 4. All the participants reported dandruff reduction and acceptable fragrance of the shampoo at four weeks. Absence of itching and reduction in oiliness was reported by 73.3% (n=22) of participants at week 4 and by 50.0% (n=15) of participants at week 2, respectively. All participants reported good, very good, or excellent satisfaction with the test shampoo at week 4, whereas the investigators rated the shampoo as very good or excellent in managing dandruff in all participants. At week 4, erythema was reported to be absent in all participants. No adverse events were reported during the study.

CONCLUSIONS

The 2.5% selenium sulfide shampoo was found to be effective in the management of dandruff and related symptoms like itching, oiliness, and greasiness and had a good safety profile in Indian participants with dandruff.

Formulation and evaluation of itraconazole-loaded nanoemulgel for efficient topical delivery to treat fungal infections

Aim: The clinical application of conventional oral dosage form of itraconazole is limited due to its poor bioavailability. The aim of the study was to develop nanoemulgel of Itraconazole for topical delivery. Method: Nanoemulsions were prepared, optimized and further incorporated into a gel and evaluated for homogeneity, pH, viscosity, spreadability, in vitro drug release and skin irritation studies. Results: Cumulative drug release from nanoemulsions was within the range of 37.24 to 47.63% at 10 h. Drug release % for all the nanoemulgel formulations at10 h was 32.39, 39.75 and 45.9% respectively. Nanoemulgel was non-irritant as demonstrated by skin irritation studies in animals. Conclusion: Itraconazole nanoemulgels were proved to be potential for effective topical delivery of drug with enhanced bioavailability.

Lipid Horizons: Recent Advances and Future Prospects in LBDDS for Oral Administration of Antihypertensive Agents

The lipid-based drug delivery system (LBDDS) is a well-established technique that is anticipated to bring about comprehensive transformations in the pharmaceutical field, impacting the management and administration of drugs, as well as treatment and diagnosis. Various LBDDSs verified to be an efficacious mechanism for monitoring hypertension systems are SEDDS (self-nano emulsifying drug delivery), nanoemulsion, microemulsions, vesicular systems (transferosomes and liposomes), and solid lipid nanoparticles. LBDDSs overcome the shortcomings that are associated with antihypertensive agents because around fifty percent of the antihypertensive agents experience a few drawbacks including short half-life because of hepatic first-pass metabolism, poor aqueous solubility, low permeation rate, and undesirable side effects. This review emphasizes antihypertensive agents that were encapsulated into the lipid carrier to improve their poor oral bioavailability. Incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as nanotechnology and targeted drug delivery, LBDDS holds promise in addressing the multifactorial nature of hypertension. By fine-tuning drug release profiles and enhancing drug uptake at specific sites, LBDDS can potentially target renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system components, sympathetic nervous system pathways, and endothelial dysfunction, all of which play crucial roles in hypertension pathophysiology. The future of hypertension management using LBDDS is promising, with ongoing reviews focusing on precision medicine approaches, improved biocompatibility, and reduced toxicity. As we delve deeper into understanding the intricate mechanisms underlying hypertension, LBDDS offers a pathway to develop next-generation antihypertensive therapies that are safer, more effective, and tailored to individual patient needs.

Extracellular Vesicles and Hydrogels: An Innovative Approach to Tissue Regeneration

Extracellular vesicles have emerged as promising tools in regenerative medicine due to their inherent ability to facilitate intercellular communication and modulate cellular functions. These nanosized vesicles transport bioactive molecules, such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, which can affect the behavior of recipient cells and promote tissue regeneration. However, the therapeutic application of these vesicles is frequently constrained by their rapid clearance from the body and inability to maintain a sustained presence at the injury site. In order to overcome these obstacles, hydrogels have been used as extracellular vesicle delivery vehicles, providing a localized and controlled release system that improves their therapeutic efficacy. This Review will examine the role of extracellular vesicle-loaded hydrogels in tissue regeneration, discussing potential applications, current challenges, and future directions. We will investigate the origins, composition, and characterization techniques of extracellular vesicles, focusing on recent advances in exosome profiling and the role of machine learning in this field. In addition, we will investigate the properties of hydrogels that make them ideal extracellular vesicle carriers. Recent studies utilizing this combination for tissue regeneration will be highlighted, providing a comprehensive overview of the current research landscape and potential future directions.

Niosome as a promising tool for increasing the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory compounds

Niosomes are drug delivery systems with widespread applications in pharmaceutical research and the cosmetic industry. Niosomes are vesicles of one or more bilayers made of non-ionic surfactants, cholesterol, and charge inducers. Because of their bilayer characteristics, similar to liposomes, niosomes can be loaded with lipophilic and hydrophilic cargos. Therefore, they are more stable and cheaper in preparation than liposomes. They can be classified into four categories according to their sizes and structures, namely small unilamellar vesicles (SUVs), large unilamellar vesicles (LUVs,), multilamellar vesicles (MLVs), and multivesicular vesicles (MVVs). There are many methods for niosome preparation, such as thin-film hydration, solvent injection, and heating method. The current study focuses on the preparation methods and pharmacological effects of niosomes loaded with natural and chemical anti-inflammatory compounds in kinds of literature during the past decade. We found that most research was carried out to load anti-inflammatory agents like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) into niosome vesicles. The studies revealed that niosomes could improve anti-inflammatory agents' physicochemical properties, including solubility, cellular uptake, stability, encapsulation, drug release and liberation, efficiency, and oral bioavailability or topical absorption. See also the graphical abstract(Fig. 1).

Use of herbal medicine during pregnancy and associated factors among pregnant women with access to public healthcare in west Shewa zone, Central Ethiopia: sequential mixed-method study

OBJECTIVE

This study was aimed at assessing the prevalence of herbal drug use among pregnant women with access to modern medicine and associated factors in public health facilities in the west Shewa zone, Oromia regional state, Ethiopia.

DESIGN

A sequential mixed-method study approach was carried out among pregnant women and other stakeholders.

SETTING

This study was conducted at public health facilities, including 3 public hospitals and 20 health centres, in the west Shewa zone of Ethiopia.

PARTICIPANTS

A systematically selected sample of 411 pregnant women was participated in the quantitative study. For the qualitative method, focus group discussions and in-depth interviews were conducted among pregnant women attending antenatal care and key informants using an interview guide until data saturation was achieved.

PRIMARY OUTCOME

For outcome variables, the respondents were asked if they used any herbal medicine during their current pregnancy. It was then recorded as 0=no and 1=yes.

RESULTS

The prevalence of herbal medicines was found to be 19.7%. The most commonly used herbal medicines were Zingiber officinale, Ocimum gratissimum, Eucalyptus globules, Allium sativum and Rutacha lepensis. Herbal medicine use during pregnancy was significantly associated with older maternal age (adjusted OR (AOR) 2.4, 95% CI 1.2 to 5.1), urban residence (AOR 2.3, 95% CI 1.3 to 3.7) and second trimester of pregnancy (AOR 2.3, 95% CI 1.3 to 4.5).

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, one in five pregnant women uses herbal medicine, which is relatively low. Sociodemographic factors and the duration of pregnancy affected the utilisation of herbal drugs during pregnancy. The most common herbals used by pregnant women were intended to treat minor disorders of pregnancy and medical disorders such as hypertension.

Dental aerosol-producing treatments: Comparison of contamination patterns of face shields and surgical masks

During the COVID-19 pandemic, dental face shields were recommended to protect the eyes. This study aimed to examine to what extent face shield and mask contamination differ when a pre-procedural mouth rinsing with Chlorhexidine (CHX) is conducted before treatment. In this prospective, randomized study, three groups of subjects were formed (rinsing with 0.1% CHX, water, or no rinsing (control) before aerosol-producing treatments). After each of the 301 treatments, the practitioner's face shield was swabbed with eSwab and the mask was brought into contact with agar plates. Sampling was done from the exterior surface only. Samples were cultured for 48 h at 35 °C under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Bacteria were classified by phenotypic characteristics, biochemical test methods, and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Colony-forming units were counted and mean values were compared (WSR, H-test, U-test, p < 0.05). Within each subject group, face shields showed significantly more contamination than surgical masks (control group: 350 CFU, 50 CFU; intervention water: 270 CFU, 40 CFU; intervention CHX: 250 CFU, 30 CFU). Comparison of face shields of the different subject groups did not reveal any statistically significant differences. However, CHX resulted in a statistically significant bacterial reduction on surgical masks compared to the water and control group (control: 50 CFU, intervention water: 40 CFU, intervention CHX: 30 CFU). Contamination of face shields and surgical masks was highest in the control group, followed by the water group, and lowest in the intervention group with CHX. Streptococcus spp. and Staphylococcus spp. dominated, representing the oral and cutaneous flora. Contamination of masks worn with or without face shields did not differ. Presumably, face shields intercept first splashes and droplets, while the masks were mainly exposed to bioaerosol mist. Consequently, face shields protect the facial region and surroundings from splashes and droplets, but not the mask itself. A pre-procedural mouth rinse with CHX had no statistically significant reducing effect on contamination of the face shield, but a statistically significant reducing effect was observed on contamination of the mask.

Zingerone Alleviates Morphine Tolerance and Dependence in Mice by Reducing Oxidative Stress-Mediated NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation

Morphine (MPH) is widely used for pain management; however, long-term MPH therapy results in antinociceptive tolerance and physical dependence, limiting its clinical use. Zingerone (ZIN) is a natural phenolic compound with neuroprotective effects. We investigated the effects of single and repeated doses of ZIN on MPH-induced tolerance, dependence, and underlying biochemical mechanisms. After a dose-response experiment, tolerance was developed to MPH (10 mg/kg, i.p.) for seven days. In the single-dose study, ZIN was administered on day seven. In the repeated-dose study, ZIN was administered for seven days. Naloxone (5 mg/kg, i.p., 120 min after MPH) was injected to assess withdrawal signs on day seven. The levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), nitric oxide (NO), total thiol (TT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were measured in the prefrontal cortex. The protein levels of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and NLRP3-ASC-Caspase-1 axis were assessed by ELISA and Western blotting, respectively. Results showed that ZIN (100 mg/kg) had no antinociceptive activity, and subsequent experiments were performed at this dose. Repeated ZIN reversed MPH antinociceptive tolerance, whereas single ZIN did not. Single and repeated ZIN attenuated naloxone-induced jumping. In addition, repeated ZIN significantly inhibited weight loss. Repeated ZIN suppressed the MPH-induced increase in TBARS, NO, IL-1β, NLRP3, ASC, and Caspase-1. It also inhibited MPH-induced TT and GPx reduction. In contrast, single ZIN had no effect. Findings suggest that ZIN reduces MPH-induced tolerance and dependence by suppressing oxidative stress and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. This study provides a novel therapeutic approach to reduce the side effects of MPH.

Evaluation of antihypertensive activity and molecular docking analysis of Padina boergesenii extract

INTRODUCTION

Antihypertensive drugs that are chemically synthesized usually tend to initiate different health complications. The quest for bioactive molecules to create novel medicines has focused on Marine resources like seaweeds. These molecules can furnish a positive probability for patients to gain benefits from these natural substances.

METHODS

This study aims to identify phytoconstituents present in brown seaweed-Padina boergesenii. Five different solvents were used to prepare extracts and their antioxidant activity as well as antihypertensive activity was evaluated. Phytoconstituents were identified using LC-MS/MS, and subjected to molecular interaction against ACE enzyme.

RESULTS

The 70% ethanolic extract exhibited the highest total phenolic content (TPC), significant radical scavenging activity and concentration dependent Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibition activity. LC-MS/MS analysis confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds from which 7,8 dihydroxycoumarin had the highest affinity against ACE enzyme in molecular docking study.

CONCLUSION

These findings advocate that Padina boergesenii can be a potential source for developing novel antihypertensive therapeutic drug(s) and could pave the way for evolving effective and safe remedies from natural resources.

Cardioprotective and hypotensive mechanistic insights of hydroethanolic extract of Cucumis melo L. kernels in isoprenaline-induced cardiotoxicity based on metabolomics and in silico electrophysiological models

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) continue to threaten health worldwide, and account for a significant portion of deaths and illnesses. In both developing and industrialized nations, they challenge their health systems. There are several traditional uses of Cucurbitaceae seeds in Pakistan, India, Iran, and China, including treating cardiovascular, neurological, and urogenital diseases. Methods: In the present work, integrated techniques of metabolomics profiling and computational cardiomyocyte stimulation were used to investigate possible mechanisms of C. melo in isoprenaline (ISO)-induced myocardial infarction. In vitro, vasoconstrictions, paired atria, and in vivo invasive blood pressure measurement models were performed to explore the mechanism of action of C. melo hydroethanolic seed extract (Cm-EtOH). Results: Results showed that Cm-EtOH demonstrates NO-based endothelium-derived relaxing factor (EDRF) vasorelaxant response, negative chronotropic and inotropic response in the atrium, and hypotensive effects in normotensive rats. Results also revealed that Cm-EtOH decreases cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and reverts the altered gene expressions, biochemical, and metabolites in ISO-induced myocardial infarction (MI) rats. The extract additionally reversed ISO-induced MI-induced oxidative stress, energy consumption, and amino acid metabolism. Moreover, C. melo seeds increased EDRF function, energy production, and antioxidant capacity to treat myocardial and vascular disorders. In computational cardiomyocyte simulation, gallic acid reduced action potential duration, upstroke velocity (dV/dtmax), and effective refractory period. Conclusion: This study highlights the therapeutic potential of C. melo seeds to treat cardiovascular diseases and provides mechanistic insight into its antihypertensive and cardioprotective activities.

Bioactivity of Microencapsulated Cell-Free Supernatant of Streptococcus thermophilus in Combination with Thyme Extract on Food-Related Bacteria

The bioactive properties of the combination of microencapsulated cell-free supernatant (CFS) from Streptococcus thermophilus and thyme extract on food-related bacteria (Photobacterium damselae, Proteus mirabilis, Vibrio vulnificus, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC29213, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC29212, and Salmonella Paratyphi A NCTC13) were investigated. The microencapsulated CFS of S. thermophilus, in combination with ethanolic thyme extract, had a particle size in the range of 1.11 to 11.39 µm. The microencapsulated CFS of S. thermophilus had a wrinkled, spherical form. In the supernatant, especially at 2% (v/w), the thyme extract additive caused a decrease in the wrinkled form and a completely spherical structure. A total of 11 compounds were determined in the cell-free supernatant of S. thermophilus, and acetic acid (39.64%) and methyl-d3 1-dideuterio-2-propenyl ether (10.87%) were the main components. Thyme extract contained seven components, the main component being carvacrol at 67.96% and 1,2,3-propanetriol at 25.77%. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in the inhibition zones of the extracts on bacteria. The inhibitory effect of thyme extract on bacteria varied between 25.00 (P. damselae) and 41.67 mm (V. vulnificus). Less antibacterial activity was shown by the microencapsulated CFS from S. thermophilus compared to their pure form. (p < 0.05). As a result, it was found that microencapsulated forms of CFS from S. thermophilus, especially those prepared in combination with 2% (v/w) thyme extract, generally showed higher bioactive effects on bacteria.

Attenuating human fear memory retention with minocycline: a randomized placebo-controlled trial

Pavlovian fear conditioning is widely used as a pre-clinical model to investigate methods for prevention and treatment of anxiety and stress-related disorders. In this model, fear memory consolidation is thought to require synaptic remodeling, which is induced by signaling cascades involving matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9). Here we investigated the effect of the tetracycline antibiotic minocycline, an inhibitor of MMP-9, on fear memory retention. We conducted a pre-registered, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in N = 105 healthy humans (N = 70 female), using a configural fear conditioning paradigm. We administered a single dose of minocycline before configural fear memory acquisition and assessed fear memory retention seven days later in a recall test. To index memory retention, we pre-registered fear-potentially startle (FPS) as our primary outcome, and pupil dilation as the secondary outcome. As control indices of memory acquisition, we analyzed skin conductance responses (SCR) and pupil dilation. We observed attenuated retention of configural fear memory in individuals treated with minocycline compared to placebo, as measured by our primary outcome. In contrast, minocycline did not affect fear memory acquisition or declarative contingency memory. Our findings provide in-vivo evidence for the inhibition of fear memory consolidation by minocycline. This could motivate further research into primary prevention, and given the short uptake time of minocycline, potentially also secondary prevention of PTSD after trauma.

"Combination treatments of imatinib with astaxanthin and crocin efficiently ameliorate antioxidant status, inflammation and cell death progression in imatinib-resistant chronic myeloid leukemia cells"

BACKGROUND

Imatinib resistance remains a major obstacle in the treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML). Crocin (CRC) and astaxanthin (ATX) are phytochemicals with anti-cancer properties.

AIMS

This study aimed to explore the effects of combination treatment of Imatinib with CRC and ATX on Imatinib-resistant K562 (IR-K562) cells.

METHODS AND RESULTS

After the establishment of IR-K562 cells, growth inhibitory activity was determined by the MTT assay. To test the regeneration potential, a colony formation assay was performed. Cell cycle analyses were examined by flow cytometry. Cell injury was evaluated by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage. Real-time PCR was applied to assess the expression of IL6, TNF-α, STAT3, BAD, CASP3, TP53, and Bcl-2 genes. Caspase-3 activity was determined by a colorimetric assay. Antioxidant activity was measured using a diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. After 48 h of treatment, ATX (IC50 = 30µM) and CRC (IC50 = 190µM) significantly inhibited cell proliferation and colony formation ability, induced G1 cell cycle arrest and cell injury, upregulated the expression of apoptosis-associated genes, and downregulated the expression of anti-apoptotic and inflammatory genes. The combination of IM with ATX and/or CRC synergistically reduced cell viability (combination index [CI] < 1).

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that IM shows better therapeutic efficacy at lower doses when combined with ATX and/or CRC.

The performance of hypochlorous acid modified Ag nanoparticle-based assay in the determination of total antioxidant capacity of Boswellia Serrata and Aronia

In this study, the SNPAC method was developed by using hypochlorous (ClO-) at pH 9.3. Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) was used as a stabilizer. The existence of HOCl enables to formation stronger and more stable yellow emission which gives sensitivity. As a result, lower LOD and LOQ values were achieved by the AgNP-HOCl method. The obtaining lower values was attributed to the reoxidation of silver atoms with ClO- ions in the presence of PVP. The newly modified method was applied to the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) measurement of Boswellia Serrata, Aronia Melanocarpa tea, and juice. The results were compared with the results obtained by application of CUPRAC (Cupric ion Reducing Antioxidant Capacity) and FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) assays. The TAC values of Boswellia Serrata, Aronia Melanocarpa tea, and juice were found as 6.18, 137.98, and 12.08 mmol TEAC/kg, respectively.

Effect of Dill (Anethum graveolens) Oil on Pruritus and Quality of Life of Hemodialysis Patients: A Randomized Double-Blind Three-Arm Controlled Trial

Introduction

Anethum graveolens (AG), commonly known as dill, is a plant from the Apiaceae family that has been traditionally used as a skin softener and purifying agent in Persian medicine. In a previous study conducted on male rats, dill was found to have anti-inflammatory effects. The current study aimed to examine the efficacy of topical application of Anethum graveolens oil on pruritus severity, skin dryness, sleep quality, and quality of life in patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Methods

In the current clinical trial, the participants were randomly assigned to one of these groups: topical AG preparation, sesame oil, or a control group receiving no treatment. The study was double-blind and placebo-controlled. The topical treatment was applied twice a day for one month to areas of the skin affected by pruritus. The outcome measures included the severity of skin dryness, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Duo's Uremic Pruritus Severity Scale, and the Itchy QoL questionnaire.

Results

This study involved 106 hemodialysis patients, and after intervention for one month, the medication group had a significantly lower mean score of sleep quality (3.24 ± 2.41) than the placebo (4.54 ± 3.11) and control (5.05 ± 3.21) groups (P=0.032). The mean change in pruritus severity was significantly greater in the medication group (-17.28 ± 8.938) than the placebo (-5.91 ± 5.398) and control (-3.43 ± 3.228) groups (P < 0.001). Moreover, a significant difference was observed in the mean changes in quality of life between the medication, placebo, and control groups, with values of -14.88 ± 7.89, -5.34 ± 4.50, and -1.92 ± 2.86, respectively (P < 0.001). Furthermore, both the medication and placebo groups showed improvement in skin dryness compared to the control group having the values of -1.65 ± 0.91, -1.11 ± 0.79, and -0.38 ± 0.54, respectively (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Topical Anethum graveolens preparation significantly improved the sleep quality and quality of life and reduced skin pruritus and dryness in hemodialysis patients. It could be considered as a simple therapeutic modality to control pruritus in hemodialysis patients. This trial is registered with IRCT2017022032671N1.

Therapeutic potential of traditional Chinese medicine for interstitial lung disease

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a chronic lung dysfunction disease with a poor prognosis and poor recovery. The clinically used therapeutic drugs, such as glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants, have no significant therapeutic effect and are accompanied with severe side effects. In recent years, considerable progress has been made in exploring and applying natural herb components for treating ILD. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) possesses innate, non-toxic characteristics and offers advantages in preventing and treating pulmonary ailments. However, a comprehensive study of TCM on ILD therapy has not yet been reviewed.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review aimed to provide a comprehensive summary of the monomer components, total extracts, and prescriptions of TCM for ILD therapy, elucidating their molecular mechanisms to serve as a reference in treating ILD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The literature information was searched in the PubMed, Web of Science databases. The search keywords included 'interstitial lung disease', 'lung fibrosis' or 'pulmonary fibrosis', and 'traditional Chinese medicine', 'traditional herbal medicine', or 'herb medicine'.

RESULTS

The active components of single herbs, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, phenols, and quinones, have potential therapeutic effects on ILD. The active extracts and prescriptions were also summarized and analyzed. The herbs, Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. (Gancao), Astragalus membranaceus Fisch. Bunge. (Huangqi) and Angelicasinensis (Oliv.) Diels (Danggui), play significant roles in the treatment of ILD. The mechanisms involve the inhibition of inflammatory factor release, anti-oxidative injury, and interference with collagen production, etc. CONCLUSION: This review examines the therapeutic potential of TCM for ILD and elucidates its molecular mechanisms, demonstrating that mitigating inflammation and oxidative stress, modulating the immune system, and promoting tissue repair are efficacious strategies for ILD therapy. The depth research will yield both theoretical and practical implications.

Curcumin-loaded nanostructured systems for treatment of leishmaniasis: a review

Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease that has affected more than 350 million people worldwide and can manifest itself in three different forms: cutaneous, mucocutaneous, or visceral. Furthermore, the current treatment options have drawbacks which compromise efficacy and patient compliance. To face this global health concern, new alternatives for the treatment of leishmaniasis have been explored. Curcumin, a polyphenol obtained from the rhizome of turmeric, exhibits leishmanicidal activity against different species of Leishmania spp. Although its mechanism of action has not yet been fully elucidated, its leishmanicidal potential may be associated with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it has limitations that compromise its clinical use. Conversely, nanotechnology has been used as a tool for solving biopharmaceutical challenges associated with drugs, such as curcumin. From a drug delivery standpoint, nanocarriers (1-1000 nm) can improve stability, increase solubility, promote intracellular delivery, and increase biological activity. Thus, this review offers a deep look into curcumin-loaded nanocarriers intended for the treatment of leishmaniasis.

A Green-and-White Integrative Analytical Strategy Combining Univariate and Chemometric Techniques for Quantifying Recently Approved Multi-Drug Eye Solution and Potentially Cancer-Causing Impurities: Application to the Aqueous Humor

BACKGROUND

Drug impurities are now seen as a major threat to the production of pharmaceuticals around the world and a major part of the global contamination problem, especially when it comes to carcinogenic impurities.

OBJECTIVE

We present the first spectrophotometric strategy based on a combination of univariate and multivariate methods as impurity profiling methods for the estimation of lignocaine (LIG) and fluorescein (FLS) with their carcinogenic impurities: 2,6-xylidine (XYL) and benzene-1,3-diol (BZD).

METHOD

The data processing strategy depends on overcoming unresolved bands by employing five affordable, accurate, selective, and sensitive methods. The methods applied were a direct UV univariate spectrophotometric analysis (D0) and four multivariate chemometric methods, including classical least squares (CLS), principal component regression (PCR), partial least squares (PLS), and genetic algorithm (GA-PLS). FLS analysis (1-16 μg/mL) was performed using the D0 method at 478 nm; then, the application of the ratio subtraction method (RSM) allowed the removal of interference caused by the FLS spectrum. From the resulting ratio spectra, LIG, XYL, and BZD can be efficiently determined by chemometrics. The calibration set was carefully selected at five concentration levels using a partial factorial training design, resulting in 25 mixtures with central levels of 160, 40, and 3 μg/mL for LIG, XYL, and BZD, respectively. Another 13 samples were applied to validate the predictive ability.

RESULTS

The statistical parameters demonstrated exceptional recoveries and smaller prediction errors, confirming the experimental model's predictive power.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed approach was effectively tested using newly FDA-approved LIG and FLS pharmaceutical preparation and aqueous humor. Additionally, it was effectively assessed for whiteness, greenness, and sustainability using five assessment tools.

HIGHLIGHTS

With its remarkable analytical performance, sustainability, affordability, simplicity, and cost-efficiency, the proposed strategy is an indispensable tool for quality control and in situ analysis in little-equipped laboratories, increasing the proposed approach's surveillance ability.

Honey dressing for penile skin avulsion caused by traditional circumcision: a case report

OBJECTIVE

Penile skin avulsion is a rare complication of circumcision but commonly encountered as the result of traditional practice. We aimed to present the use of honey dressing and the benefit of its wound healing properties for management of such a complex wound.

CASE

A 24-year-old male patient with penile bleeding presented to the emergency department after undergoing traditional circumcision. Complete degloving of the penis with active bleeding and foul odour, along with heavy contamination of chewed betel leaves and powdered amoxicillin was found. Honey (Madu Nusantara, PT. Madu Nusantara, Indonesia) was used as dressing after copious irrigation using saline and povidone-iodine with bleeding control.

RESULTS

Honey dressing was shown to be effective for secondary wound healing of such a complicated and contaminated wound-in this case due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, immunostimulatory and autolytic debridement properties. A complete re-epithelialisation of the wound was achieved without progression to the hard-to-heal state by day 43. Suboptimal sexual function and aesthetic result due to wound contracture were observed as surgical reconstruction via split-thickness skin graft was refused due to cost.

CONCLUSION

In this case report, honey dressing was shown to be effective for wound healing, even in a penile avulsion with complete skin loss and heavy contamination. In rural settings, where penile avulsion due to traditional circumcision is common, honey should be considered as one of the dressing choices.

Comparative study between the effect of mesenchymal stem cells microvesicles versus ozone on induced liver injury in adult male albino rats (Histological & Immunohistochemical study)

Liver disease accounts for approximately 2 million deaths er year worldwide. Liver fibrisis results from chronic injury to the liver. If not effectively treated in time, liver fibrosis may transform into liver cirrhosis. MVs are recognized as potential biomarkers and important theraputic tools for a wide sectrum of diseases. Medical ozone has the ability to protect the body against pathological conditions caused by oxidative stress. The influence of ozone and MVs on CCL4 induced liver fibrosis was investigated in this study. Forty-eight adult male albino rats were divided into four equal groups. I control, II CCL4 group, III ozone and IV microvesicles groups. Liver fibrosis was induced in group II, III & IV using 12 SC injections (0.5 ml/kg body weight) of CCL4 dissolved in olive oil twice ber week for weeks. Blood samples were obtained to estimate serum ALT & AST. Liver tissues were processed for measurment of GSH & SOD, light and electron microscopic examination. H&E staine sections og group II showed dilated congested sinusoids and centralveins, mononuclear infiltrations, vacuolations and dark nuclei. Ultrastructurally, group II revealed irregular heterochromatic nuclei of hepatocytes, small scanty mitochondria & vacuolations. Morphometric & statistical analyses were performed. Group III showed some improvement, however, group IV showed more imrovement. The results indicates that MVs caused marked improvement than ozone against CCL4 induced liver damage via antioxidant & antiinflammatory properties.

Sophora tonkinensis and active compounds inhibit mitochondrial impairments, inflammation, and LDLR deficiency in myocardial ischemia mice through regulating the vesicle-mediated transport pathway

Ancient Chinese medicine literature and modern pharmacological studies show that Sophora tonkinensis Gagnep. (ST) has a protective effect on the heart. A biolabel research based on omics and bioinformatics and experimental validation were used to explore the application value of ST in the treatment of heart diseases. Therapeutic potential, mechanism of action, and material basis of ST in treating heart diseases were analyzed by proteomics, metabolomics, bioinformatics, and molecular docking. Cardioprotective effects and mechanisms of ST and active compounds were verified by echocardiography, HE and Masson staining, biochemical analysis, and ELISA in the isoproterenol hydrochloride-induced myocardial ischemia (MI) mice model. The biolabel research suggested that the therapeutic potential of ST for MI may be particularly significant among the heart diseases it may treat. In the isoprenaline hydrochloride-induced MI mice model, ST and its five active compounds (caffeic acid, gallic acid, betulinic acid, esculetin, and cinnamic acid) showed significant protective effects against echocardiographic changes and histopathological damages of the ischemic myocardial tissue. Meanwhile, they showed a tendency to correct mitochondrial structure and function damage and the abnormal expression of 12 biolables (DCTN1, DCTN3, and SCARB2, etc.) in the vesicle-mediated transport pathway, inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10, etc.), and low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR). The biolabel research identifies a new application value of ST in the treatment of heart diseases. ST and its active compounds inhibit mitochondrial impairments, inflammation, and LDLR deficiency through regulating the vesicle-mediated transport pathway, thus achieving the purpose of treating MI.

Rosmarinic acid ameliorates the complications of monocrotaline-induced right ventricular hypertrophy on the left ventricle: Investigating the signaling pathway of Wnt/β-catenin in the heart

Objectives

Right ventricular hypertrophy (RVH) often results in failure of the right ventricle or even the left ventricle. Rosmarinic acid (RA), a natural polyphenol, is commonly found in Boraginaceae species and some species of ferns and hornworts. This study looked at how RA affects oxidative stress and left ventricular hemodynamic functions as well as RVH in monocrotaline (MCT) induced RVH model rats.

Materials and Methods

To cause RVH, MCT (60 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally (IP) injected. Rats were given saline or RA (10, 15, and 30 mg/kg, gavage, over 21 days). In anesthetized rats, the lead II electrocardiogram was recorded. The hemodynamic functions of the isolated heart were measured using the Langendorff apparatus (at constant pressure). Investigations were made into the right ventricular hypertrophy index (RVHI), the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, and Wnt and β-catenin gene expressions in the left ventricle. H&E staining was used.

Results

A significant decline in electrocardiogram parameters and anti-oxidant enzyme activities, an increase in QTc (Q-T corrected) intervals, MDA (Malondialdehyde), RVHI, and Wnt/β-catenin gene expression, and also significant changes in the hemodynamic parameters were demonstrated in the MCT group. RA improved the above-mentioned factors.

Conclusion

According to the findings, RA may act as a cardioprotective agent against cardiovascular complications brought on by RVH due to its capacity to boost the activity of cardiac anti-oxidant enzymes and decrease the expression of genes involved in vascular calcification.

Niosomal Doxycycline and Triamcinolone: A Novel Approach to Minimize Cytotoxicity in Endodontic Medicaments

Introduction

Mechanical root canal preparations and irrigation solutions are essential for reducing microbial counts in the root canal system. However, these methods do not completely eliminate microorganisms. Intracanal medicaments are used to further decrease microbial counts. This study aims to assess the cytotoxicity of various intracanal medicaments.

Materials and methods

In this in vitro study, murine fibroblast cell lines (L929) were cultured in a controlled environment. The MTT assay was employed to evaluate the cytotoxicity of different medicament combinations, including calcium hydroxide and triamcinolone (D1), niosomal doxycycline and triamcinolone (D2), calcium hydroxide (D3), and a combination of doxycycline and triamcinolone (D4). Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA and Dunnett's test.

Results

The results indicated that D1 and D2 had lower cytotoxicity, while D4 exhibited the highest cytotoxicity. D1 was found to be non-cytotoxic up to a concentration of 500 µg/mL over a period of 72 hours. D2 and D3 showed similar effects up to concentrations of 250 µg/mL and 100 µg/mL, respectively, for 72 hours. In contrast, D4 exhibited cytotoxicity at concentrations above 75 µg/mL at 72 hours.

Conclusion

This study suggests that encapsulating doxycycline in niosomal structures (D2) reduces cytotoxicity in murine fibroblast cell lines (L929) for at least 24 and 48 hours. These findings offer promising implications for the development of endodontic medicaments with improved biocompatibility.

Antioxidative effects of α-tocopherol on stored human red blood cell units

BACKGROUND

Red blood cell (RBC) units undergo metabolic, structural, and biochemical changes known as "storage lesions" that can reduce the survival and quality of RBCs. The use of antioxidants such as α-tocopherol may help to improve the quality of RBC units by reducing oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to determine the antioxidant effect of α-tocopherol in RBC units containing citrate-phosphate-dextrose solution with adenine (CPDA1) stored at 1°C-6°C for 35 days.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Four RBC units containing CPDA1 were divided into four equal satellite bags. Three bags were supplemented with 0.125, 0.625, and 3.125 mM concentrations of α-tocopherol as test groups. One bag was supplemented with ethanol (0.5%) as a control group. They were stored at 1°C-6°C for 35 days. Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and hemolysis index (HI) were measured on days 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35.

RESULTS

In all groups, MDA concentration and HI increased and TAC decreased (P < 0.05). MDA concentration and HI in the 3.125 mM of the α-tocopherol group had a lower increase compared to the other test and control groups. Supplementation of RBC units with α-tocopherol resulted in a significant increase of TAC in all three groups compared to the control group (P < 0.05) and had a lower reduction during storage.

CONCLUSION

Supplementation of RBC units with α-tocopherol improves the quality of RBC units by decreasing lipid peroxidation and hemolysis and by increasing TAC. Among the mentioned concentrations, 3.125 mM of α-tocopherol had a significantly more antioxidant effect.

Protective Roles and Therapeutic Effects of Gallic Acid in the Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases: Current Trends and Future Directions

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are serious life-threatening illnesses and significant problematic issues for public health having a heavy economic burden on all society worldwide. The high incidence of these diseases as well as high mortality rates make them the leading causes of death and disability. Therefore, finding novel and more effective therapeutic methods is urgently required. Gallic acid, an herbal medicine with numerous biological properties, has been utilized in the treatment of various diseases for thousands of years. It has been demonstrated that gallic acid possesses pharmacological potential in regulating several molecular and cellular processes such as apoptosis and autophagy. Moreover, gallic acid has been investigated in the treatment of CVDs both in vivo and in vitro. Herein, we aimed to review the available evidence on the therapeutic application of gallic acid for CVDs including myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury and infarction, drug-induced cardiotoxicity, hypertension, cardiac fibrosis, and heart failure, with a focus on underlying mechanisms.

Antidiabetic and hepato-renal protective effects of medicinal plants in STZ induced diabetic rats

Abstract The antidiabetic and hepato-renal protective effects of Citrullus colocynthis and Momordica charantia ethanol extracts were investigated in streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic male albino rats. Diabetic rats were treated with C. colocynthis, M. charantia or C. colocynthis + M. charantia mixed extract at a dose of 250 mg /kg body weight per oral per day for 21 days. The mean body weight of all the diabetic rat groups on day 1 of treatment (day 10 of diabetes) was significantly lower than the normal control rat group (P<0.05). The blood glucose level of all the diabetic rat groups on day 1 of treatment (day 10 of diabetes) was significantly (P<0.05) higher (> 200 mg/dl) than the normal control rat group (95.5 ± 2.7). At the end of treatment (day 21), the diabetic rats treated with plant extracts showed significant increase (P<0.05) in body weight and significant (P<0.05) reduction in blood glucose level when compared to diabetic control animals. Significant increase (< 0.05) was observed in the serum bilirubin, alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), urea and creatinine levels of diabetic control rat group. The serum levels of these liver and kidney-related parameters of diabetic rats treated with plant extract were significantly lower when compared to diabetic control rat group (p < 0.05). Photomicrographs of liver and kidney microsections from diabetic rats treated with these plant extracts showed amelioration in the hepato-renal histoarchitectures. It was concluded that the C. colocynthis and M. charantia methanol extracts are antidiabetic and hepato-renal protective in STZ induced diabetic male rats. Treatment of the diabetic rats with C. colocynthis + M. charantia mixed extract is more effective in the amelioration of diabetes and hepato-renal injuries in STZ induced diabetic male rats.

Design of bio-scaffold conjugated with chitosan-PEG nano-carriers containing bio-macromolecules of Verbascum sinuatum L. to differentiate human adipose-derived stem cells into dermal keratinocytes

Regenerative medicine and drug delivery systems provide promising approaches for the treatment of skin lesions. However, the design of engineered substrates containing therapeutic agents for cell proliferation and its differentiation into skin cells, with skin-like patterns, is the major challenge. Here, to overcome this problem, a hybrid scaffold conjugated with nanoparticles containing the extract of Verbascum sinuatum L. flowers (HE) was designed. To this end, (chitosan-PEG)-based nanocarriers (Chi-PEG) were first prepared in the volume ratios of 90:10, 80:20, 70:30, and 50:50 v/v. The results indicated that the 70:30 ratio possessed better physical/morphologic properties along with more suitable stability than other nanoparticles (encapsulation-efficiency:86.34 %, zeta-potential:21.2 mV, and PDI:0.30). Afterward, PCL-collagen biologic scaffold (PCL-Coll) were prepared by the lyophilization method, then conjugated with selected nanoparticles(Chi-PEG70:30-HE). Notably, in addition to PCL-Coll/Chi-PEG-HE, two scaffolds of PCL-Coll and PCL-Coll/Chi-PEG were prepared to evaluate the role of conjugation in the release behavior of herbal bio-macromolecules. Based on the results, the conjugation process was led to a more stable release, compared to unconjugated nanoparticles. The mentioned process also created an integrated network along with better physicomechanical properties [modulus:12.31 MPa, tensile strength:4.44 MPa, smaller pore size(2 μm), and better swelling (100.27 %) with a symmetrical wettability on the surface]. PCL-Coll/Chi-PEG-HE scaffold was also resulted in higher expression levels of K10 and K14 keratinocytes with biomimetic patterns than PCL-Coll/Chi-PEG scaffold. This could be due to the active ingredients of V. sinuatum extract like alkaloids, flavonoids, and triterpenoids which imparts the wound healing (anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant) properties to this scaffold. It seems that the use of bioactive materials like herbal extracts, in the form of encapsulated into polymeric nanocarriers, in the structure of engineered scaffolds can be a promising option for regenerating damaged skin without scarring. Hence, this study can provide innovative insights into the combination of two techniques of drug delivery and tissue engineering to design bio-scaffolds containing bioactive molecules with better therapeutic approaches.

Amlodipine Ocular Delivery Restores Ferning Patterns and Reduces Intensity of Glycosylated Peak of Carrageenan-Induced Tear Fluid: An In-Silico Flexible Docking with IL-β1

BACKGROUND

The tear ferning test can be an easy clinical procedure for the evaluation and characterization of the ocular tear film.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to examine the restoration of tear ferning patterns and reduction of glycosylation peak after amlodipine application in carrageenan-induced conjunctivitis.

METHODS

At the rabbit's upper palpebral region, carrageenan was injected for cytokine-mediated conjunctivitis. Ferning pattern and glycosylation of the tear fluid were characterized using various instrumental analyses. The effect of amlodipine was also examined after ocular instillation and flexible docking studies.

RESULTS

Optical microscopy showed a disrupted ferning of the tear collected from the inflamed eye. FTIR of the induced tear fluid exhibited peaks within 1000-1200 cm-1, which might be due to the protein glycosylation absent in the normal tear spectrogram. The glycosylation peak reduced significantly in the tear sample collected from the amlodipine-treated group. Corresponding energy dispersive analysis showed the presence of sulphur, indicating protein leakage from the lacrimal gland in the induced group. The disappearance of sulphur from the treated group indicated its remedial effect. The flexible docking studies revealed a stronger binding mode of amlodipine with Interleukin-1β (IL-1β). The reduction in the intensity of the glycosylated peak and the restoration offering are probably due to suppression of IL-1β.

CONCLUSION

This study may be helpful in obtaining primary information for drug discovery to be effective against IL-1β and proving tear fluid as a novel diagnostic biomarker.

Neuroprotective Effect of Lithospermum officinale Callus Extract on Inflamed Primary Microglial Cells

BACKGROUND

Plants that have therapeutic features for humans or animals are commonly referred to as "medicinal plants". They produce secondary metabolites with antioxidant, antimicrobial and/or anti-cancer effects. Lithospermum officinale, known as European stone seed, is a famous medicinal herb. However, due to the pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PzAl) in the root extract of L.officinal, there are therapeutic limitations to this herb.

OBJECTIVE

This research was devoted to the evaluation of the anti-inflammatory capacity of methanolic extracts of L. officinale callus (LoE) (fresh cells) on rat microglial cells, the immune cells of the Central Nervous System, which play an essential role in the responses to neuroinflammation.

METHODS

Primary microglia were obtained from neonatal Wistar rats (1 to 3-days old), and then treated with various concentration of CfA and methanolic extracts of 17 and 31-day-old L. officinale callus before LPS-stimulation. In addition to HPLC analysis of the extracts, viability, nitric oxide production, and evaluation of pro-inflammatory genes and cytokines in the inflamed microglia were investigated by MTT, Griess methos, qrt-PCR, and ELISA.

RESULTS

Methanolic extract of the 17-day-old callus of L. officinale exhibited anti-inflammatory effects on LPS-stimulated microglial cells much higher than observed for CfA. The data were further supported by the decreased expression of Nos2, Tnf-α, and Cox-2 mRNA and the suppression of TNF-α and IL-1β release in the activated microglial cells pretreated with the effective dose of LoE (0.8 mg mL-1).

CONCLUSION

It was assumed that the better anti-neuroinflammatory performance of LoE than CfA in LPS-activated primary microglia could be a result of the synergism of the components of the extract and the lipophilic nature of RsA as the main phenolic acid of LoE. Considering that LoE shows a high antioxidant capacity and lacks PzAl, it is anticipated that LoE extract might be considered a reliable substitute to play a key role in the preparation of neuroprotective pharmaceutical formulas, which require in vivo research and further experiments.

A comparison of adsorption capacity of several synthesis methods of cellulose-based absorbent towards Pb(II) removal: Optimization with response surface methodology

The effects of various synthesis methods of a novel biodegradable magnetically recyclable cellulose-based adsorbent (a magnetized modified silica aerogel) on Pb(II) removal efficiency were studied. QSM (quince seed mucilage) was modified via hydrothermal and ultrasonic modes. Oven-drying and freeze-drying procedures were then used to obtain the final adsorbents. The adsorbents were named A1 to A4 and B1 to B4, depending on the synthesis and drying techniques. XRD, FTIR, BET, and SEM are characterization techniques for identifying the adsorbents. Average crystallite sizes of 15.5, 8.3, 10.9, and 2.7 nm were obtained for A1, A2, A3, and A4 samples (Scherrer formula). SEM image confirmed a Sticky bullets-like morphology. The pHpzc values of 3.4, 6.0, and 4.1 were also determined for Fe-silica aerogel, Fe-QSM, and Fe-silica aerogel-QSM samples. The highest adsorption efficiency of the A2 adsorbent towards Pb(II) cations was followed via the experimental design by the RSM (response surface methodology) approach. ANOVA results showed model F value 185 (>F0.05, 14, 15 = 2.42) and LOF F-value of 0.3831 ( Collapse

Key Words

• Effects of synthesis methods
• Pb(II)-removal
• Quince seed mucilage
• Response surface methodology (RSM)
• Silica aerogel

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MESH Headings

• Cellulose
• Lead
• Adsorption
• Thermodynamics
• Silicon Dioxide
• Kinetics
• Water Pollutants, Chemical/analysis
• Hydrogen-Ion Concentration

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Affiliation(s)

Parastoo Ghahremani Department of Chemical Engineering, Shahreza Branch, Islamic Azad University, P.O. Box 31186145, Shahreza, Isfahan, Iran
Alireza Nezamzadeh-Ejhieh Department of Chemistry, Shahreza Branch, Islamic Azad University, P.O. Box 31186145, Shahreza, Isfahan, Iran.
Mohammad Hassan Vakili Department of Chemical Engineering, Shahreza Branch, Islamic Azad University, P.O. Box 31186145, Shahreza, Isfahan, Iran.

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Biogenic silver nanoparticles: Synthesis, applications and challenges in food sector with special emphasis on aquaculture

Aquaculture, a rapidly expanding global food sector faces challenges like pathogenic infections, water quality management and sustainability. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have emerged as promising tools in aquaculture due to their antimicrobial, antiviral and antifungal properties. AgNPs offer alternatives to traditional antimicrobial agents. Their small size and unique physicochemical properties enhance antimicrobial activity, effectively inhibiting pathogen growth and reducing disease incidence in aquatic organisms. Additionally, AgNPs can improve water quality by catalyzing the removal of pollutants, heavy metals and nutrients, reducing environmental impacts. Despite their potential benefits, several challenges and knowledge gaps exist in the utilization of AgNPs in aquaculture. Addressing challenges related to regulation, sustainability and environmental impact will be crucial for realizing their full potential in the industry. Therefore, the present review aims to provide insight into the role of AgNPs, its challenges in aquaculture and also highlights key areas for future research.

Verbascoside-Rich Plant Extracts in Animal Nutrition

In recent years, the search for dietary intervention with natural products able to sustain animal health and decrease environmental impact, has raised the number of studies pertaining to the use of plants' secondary metabolites. In fact, in livestock, there is a clear relationship between the animals' antioxidant status and the onset of some diseases that negatively affect animal welfare, health, and productive performance. An interesting compound that belongs to the secondary metabolites family of plants, named phenylpropanoids, is verbascoside. The genus Verbascum, which includes more than 233 plant species, is the genus in which this compound was first identified, but it has also been found in other plant extracts. Verbascoside exhibits several properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, chemopreventive, and neuroprotective properties, that have been evaluated mainly in in vitro studies for human health. The present work reviews the literature on the dietary integration of plant extracts containing verbascoside in livestock. The effects of dietary plant extracts containing verbascoside on the productive performance, antioxidant status, blood parameters, and meat quality in several animal species were evaluated. The present data point out that dietary plant extracts containing verbascoside appear to be a favorable dietary intervention to enhance health, antioxidant status, and product quality in livestock.

Prevalence of herbal and traditional medicine in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 20-year studies

BACKGROUND

The widely accepted prevalence of traditional medicine (TM) in Ethiopia was about 80 %, of which 95 % were sourced from plants. The purpose of this study was to update knowledge of the prevalence of herbal medicine or TM in Ethiopia and describe the characteristics of the population mostly relying on herbal medicine or TM to inform health policy-makers.

METHODS

PubMed, Google Scholar, Hinari, Scopus, and the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) were searched. The methodological quality of each included study was assessed using the quality assessment checklist for prevalence studies. Meta-analysis was conducted using STATA version 17, and the heterogeneity between studies was assessed using I2 test statistics based on the random effect model. Forest and funnel plots were used to present the data. Subgroup analysis was done by the study population, region, and setting.

RESULTS

Thirty-six studies with a total of 16,288 participants met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis of the study revealed that the prevalence of herbal medicine use in Ethiopia is 46 % (95 % CI, 37-54 %), with significant heterogeneity among the studies (I2 = 99.19 %). Egger's test for publication bias of herbal medicine use revealed significant results (Egger, P = 0.002) which indicates possible missing of small sample size studies. The prevalence of TM use in Ethiopia is 65 % (95 % CI, 52-77 %) with significant heterogeneity among the studies (I2 = 99.18 %). Egger's test for publication bias of TM use revealed non-significant results (Egger, P = 0.275). The subgroup analysis by the study setting and the region revealed variability amongst the studies. Community-based studies and Oromia National Regional State showed higher prevalence. By population type, a higher prevalence of TM use was observed amongst children and lowest amongst malaria suspects.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study revealed that TM/herbal medicine utilization remained an important source of primary healthcare in Ethiopia. In comparison to the commonly reported prevalence of TM/herbal medicine, there is a considerable decline in TM/herbal medicine prevalence. High TM/herbal medicine use tendency during pregnancy necessitates safety studies to optimize the utilization.

3D printed multi-drug-loaded suppositories for acute severe ulcerative colitis

Acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) is a growing health burden that often requires treatment with multiple therapeutic agents. As inflammation is localised in the rectum and colon, local drug delivery using suppositories could improve therapeutic outcomes. Three-dimensional (3D) printing is a novel manufacturing tool that permits the combination of multiple drugs in personalised dosage forms, created based on each patient's disease condition. This study, for the first time, demonstrates the feasibility of producing 3D printed suppositories with two anti-inflammatory agents, budesonide and tofacitinib citrate, for the treatment of ASUC. As both drugs are poorly water-soluble, the suppositories' ability to self-emulsify was exploited to improve their performance. The suppositories were fabricated via semi-solid extrusion (SSE) 3D printing and contained tofacitinib citrate and budesonide in varying doses (10 or 5 mg; 4 or 2 mg, respectively). The suppositories displayed similar dissolution and disintegration behaviours irrespective of their drug content, demonstrating the flexibility of the technology. Overall, this study demonstrates the feasibility of using SSE 3D printing to create multi-drug suppositories for the treatment of ASUC, with the possibility of titrating the drug doses based on the disease progression.

Efficacy of Bee Products (Anzer Honey, Pollen and Propolis) in Detection and Healing of Damage Induced by Antidiabetic Drug Vildagliptin/Metformin Hydrochloride in Healthy Human Pancreatic Cells: Cytotoxic, Genotoxic and Biochemical Studies

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Although drugs are powerful therapeutic agents, they have a range of side effects. These side effects are sometimes cellular and not clinically noticeable. Vildagliptin/metformin hydrochloride is one of the most widely used oral antidiabetic drugs with two active ingredients. In this study, we investigated its harmful effects on the metabolic activation system in healthy human pancreatic cells "hTERT-HPNE", and we aimed to improve these harmful effects by natural products. To benefit from the healing effect, we used the unique natural products produced by the bees of the Anzer Plateau in the Eastern Black Sea Region of Turkey.

METHODS

Cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of the drug were investigated by different tests, such as MTT, flow cytometry-apoptosis and comet assays. Anzer honey, pollen and propolis were analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (G/C-MS). A total of 19 compounds were detected, constituting 99.9% of the samples.

RESULTS

The decrease in cell viability at all drug concentrations was statistically significant compared to the negative control (P<0.05). A statistically significant decrease was detected in the apoptosis caused by vildagliptin/metformin hydrochloride with the supplementation of Anzer honey, pollen and propolis in hTERT-HPNE cells (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study can contribute to other studies testing the healing properties of natural products against the side effects of oral antidiabetics in human cells. In particular, Anzer honey, pollen and propolis can be used as additional foods to maintain cell viability and improve heal damage and can be evaluated against side effects in other drug studies.

Sodium selenite (Na2SeO3) attenuates T-2 toxin-induced iron death in LMH cells through the ROS/PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 pathway

T-2 toxin, is a monotrichous mycotoxin commonly found in animal feed and agricultural products that can damage tissues and organs through oxidative stress. Selenium is a trace element with favorable antioxidant effects. However, it is unclear whether T-2 toxin-induces ferroptosis in LMH cells and whether Na2SeO3 has a protective role in this process. To investigate the process of hepatic injury by T-2 toxin and its antagonistic effect by Na2SeO3, we used 20 ng/mL T-2 toxin as well as 160 nmol/L Na2SeO3 to treat the LMH cells. The results demonstrated that exposure to the T-2 toxin induced iron death by increasing the quantity of ROS, leading to oxidative damage, decreasing the quantities of SOD, GPx, and T-AOC, and increasing the accumulation of MDA and H2O2, which resulted in the accumulation of Fe2+ and the down-regulation of the manifestation of linked genes and proteins including FTH1, Gpx4, NQO-1, and HO-1. After the addition of Na2SeO3, the PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 pathway is activated by regulating the selenoproteins gene level, and the above abnormal changes are reversed. In summary, Na2SeO3 alleviated T-2 toxin-induced iron death via the PI3K/AKT/Nrf2 pathway. These study not only broaden the cytotoxic knowledge regarding T-2 toxin, but also serve as a foundation for the use of Na2SeO3 in daily life.

Seaweed and Seaweed-Based Functional Metabolites as Potential Modulators of Growth, Immune and Antioxidant Responses, and Gut Microbiota in Fish

Seaweed, also known as macroalgae, represents a vast resource that can be categorized into three taxonomic groups: Rhodophyta (red), Chlorophyta (green), and Phaeophyceae (brown). They are a good source of essential nutrients such as proteins, minerals, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids. Seaweed also contains a wide range of functional metabolites, including polyphenols, polysaccharides, and pigments. This study comprehensively discusses seaweed and seaweed-derived metabolites and their potential as a functional feed ingredient in aquafeed for aquaculture production. Past research has discussed the nutritional role of seaweed in promoting the growth performance of fish, but their effects on immune response and gut health in fish have received considerably less attention in the published literature. Existing research, however, has demonstrated that dietary seaweed and seaweed-based metabolite supplementation positively impact the antioxidant status, disease resistance, and stress response in fish. Additionally, seaweed supplementation can promote the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibit the proliferation of harmful bacteria, thereby improving gut health and nutrient absorption in fish. Nevertheless, an important balance remains between dietary seaweed inclusion level and the resultant metabolic alteration in fish. This review highlights the current state of knowledge and the associated importance of continued research endeavors regarding seaweed and seaweed-based functional metabolites as potential modulators of growth, immune and antioxidant response, and gut microbiota composition in fish.

In vitro studies for antiparasitic activities of Punica granatum extract

Because of the drug resistance, medicinal plants are used more frequently than coccidiostats to treat and control coccidiosis. Punica granatum is a powerful antioxidant with a variety of medicinal uses. This study used an in vitro experiment to investigate how different P. granatum from Yemen (Y) and Egypt (E) sources affected oocyst sporulation and served as an anthelminthic effector. In contrast to PGE and mebendazole, PGY (200 mg/mL) has the shortest time to paralyze and death the earthworm Eisenia fetida in this investigation. In addition, the treated worm groups' cuticle thickness and shrinkage in comparison to the control group were assessed and contrasted. Eimeria papillata is used as a model protozoan parasite in anticoccidial assays. This study shows that P. granatum affects oocysts sporulation in a dose-dependent manner, with maximal percentages of 100% (PGY) and 48.60% (PGE) at 96 h for P. granatum concentrations of 200 mg/mL. Inhibition (%) was compared to various detergents, as well as positive and negative controls. According to our research, the P. granatum extract had powerful anthelmintic and anticoccidial properties, with the potency changing according to the environmental conditions of each fruit source. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Habitat of the plant is useful for production and accumulation of some secondary metabolites in plants which be effective for the therapeutic uses. Different parameters in the environmental ecosystem affecting variation in chemical compositions and biological activity of P. granatum.

Factorial design of in situ gelling two-compartment systems containing chlorhexidine for the treatment of periodontitis

Periodontitis is one of the most widespread bacterial infectious oral diseases that affects a significant percentage of the population worldwide. Different bacterial strains are responsible for the chronic inflammation and subgingival plaque that could be effectively treated with prolonged exposure to therapeutic levels of antibiotics and antiseptics in the periodontal pockets. Medicated in situ gels of chlorhexidine (CHX), for extended drug release and long-lasting antiseptic effect in the targeted cavities, were prepared in a two-compartment system. One compartment was loaded with sodium alginate solution while other was filled with CHX and calcium solution. The mixing of the solutions during the application resulted in gelation. Two 33 full factorial designs were applied in this study in order to optimize the gel formulation. Initially, the effects of concentration of gelling agent, crosslinker, and pH of the system on the dependent variables such as gel formation and structure characteristics were investigated. Then, the concentration of the crosslinker was optimized. Afterwards, the effect of gelling agent, loading of the drug, and pH of the gel system were correlated with the gel characteristics through another factorial design. Optimized formulations were tested for mucoadhesion, in vitro drug release, and microbiological investigation. Based on the results of the factorial design, mucoadhesiveness, antimicrobial investigation, and drug release, a 4 % alginate composition can be considered optimal. Overall, the optimized in situ periodontal gel was found to be effective with prolonged retention time and desirable outcomes.

Prevalence, motivation, and associated factors of medicinal herbs consumption in pregnant women from Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office: a systematic review

CONTEXT

Worldwide access to medication remains a major public health problem that forces pregnant women to self-medicate with several sources, such as medicinal plants. This alternative medicine is increasing in many low- and high-income countries for several reasons.

OBJECTIVE

This a systematic literature review on the prevalence of herbal use during pregnancy from the World Health Organization (WHO) Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office.

METHODS

Cross-sectional studies were searched from January 2011 to June 2021 on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. We used the Rayyan website to identify the relevant studies by screening the abstracts and titles. These were followed by reading the full texts to identify the final studies to be included. The data were extracted, and the quality of the studies was assessed using the quality appraisal tool.

RESULTS

Of the 33 studies included in this review, 19 were conducted in Iran, 5 in Saudi Arabia, 4 in Palestine, 2 in Egypt, and 1 each in Oman, Iraq, and Jordan; the prevalence of herbal medicine use among pregnant women varied from 19.2% to 90.2%. Several plants were mentioned for pain management during the pregnancy period. The findings suggest family and friends are major motivating sources for the use of herbal medicine.

CONCLUSIONS

The wide variety of herbal products used in this study reflects the traditions and geographic diversity of the region. Despite the importance of literature-based data about the use of herbal medicine, it is necessary to obtain knowledge, attitude, and motivation for herbal consumption among pregnant women.

Hydroalcoholic extract of Scrophularia striata has a significant therapeutic effect on thioacetamide-induced liver cirrhosis in rats

OBJECTIVES

Liver cirrhosis is one of the most important causes of death from liver diseases. Nowadays, the use of herbal medicines has increased due to its availability, less side effects and cheapness for the treatment of liver diseases. The present study was conducted to examine therapeutic effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Scrophularia striata (S. striata) on thioacetamide-induced liver cirrhosis in rats through evaluate its effects on oxidative stress markers and the expression of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP 1), toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4), and Mitofusin (MFN2) genes.

METHODS

24 male rats were selected by simple random sampling. Rats were randomly assigned to four groups: group I: healthy rats, group II: thioacetamide (TAA) injected rats, group III: TAA injected rats+100 mg/kg bw of S. striata and group IV: TAA injected rats+200 mg/kg bw of S. striata. Liver cirrhosis was induced in rats by a 300 mg/kg bw TAA administration twice with an interval of 24 h. After 8 weeks of treatment by S. striata at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg bw, biochemical factors and oxidative stress markers (SOD, TAC, GPX, CAT and MDA) were measured using spectrophotometric methods. Also, gene expression of TIMP 1, TLR-4, and MFN2 were analyzed using real-time PCR. ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc test analysis were applied to evaluate the data.

RESULTS

The results showed the S. striata extract significantly improve the serum ALT, AST and ALP levels, TIMP 1, TLR-4, and MFN2 genes and oxidative stress markers (SOD, TAC, GPX, CAT and MDA) in the liver tissues when compared to control group (p<0.05). Also, it was found that the beneficial effects of the S. striata were dose-dependent.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the results obtained S. striata by reducing the expression of TIMP 1, TLR-4, and MFN2 genes and improving oxidative stress might be used as adjuvant treatment for liver cirrhosis.

Phytochemicals as Immunomodulatory Molecules in Cancer Therapeutics

Phytochemicals are natural plant-derived products that provide significant nutrition, essential biomolecules, and flavor as part of our diet. They have long been known to confer protection against several diseases via their anti-inflammatory, immune-regulatory, anti-microbial, and several other properties. Deciphering the role of phytochemicals in the prevention, inhibition, and treatment of cancer-unrestrained cell proliferation due to the loss of tight regulation on cell growth and replication-has been the focus of recent research. Particularly, the immunomodulatory role of phytochemicals, which is pivotal in unchecked cell proliferation and metastasis, has recently been studied extensively. The immune system is a critical component of the tumor microenvironment, and it plays essential roles in both preventing and promoting oncogenesis. Immunomodulation includes stimulation, amplification, or inactivation of some stage(s) of the immune response. Phytochemicals and their products have demonstrated immune regulation, such as macrophage migration, nitric oxide synthase inhibition, lymphocyte, T-cell, and cytokine stimulation, natural killer cell augmentation, and NFκB, TNF, and apoptosis regulation. There is a dearth of extensive accounts of the immunomodulatory effects of phytochemicals in cancer; thus, we have compiled these effects with mechanistic aspects of dietary phytochemicals in cancer, highlighting promising candidates and ongoing clinical trials on immunotherapeutic strategies to mitigate oncogenesis.

The Modulatory Bioeffects of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Polyphenols on Metabolic Disorders: Understanding Their Preventive Role against Metabolic Syndrome

Modern research achievements support the health-promoting effects of natural products and diets rich in polyphenols. Pomegranate (PG) (Punica granatum L.) contains a considerable number of bioactive compounds that exert a broad spectrum of beneficial biological activities, including antimicrobial, antidiabetic, antiobesity, and atheroprotective properties. In this context, the reviewed literature shows that PG intake might reduce insulin resistance, cytokine levels, redox gene expression, blood pressure elevation, vascular injuries, and lipoprotein oxidative modifications. The lipid parameter corrective capabilities of PG-ellagitannins have also been extensively reported to be significantly effective in reducing hyperlipidemia (TC, LDL-C, VLDL-C, and TAGs), while increasing plasma HDL-C concentrations and improving the TC/HDL-C and LDL-C/HDL-C ratios. The health benefits of pomegranate consumption seem to be acheived through the amelioration of adipose tissue endocrine function, fatty acid utilization, GLUT receptor expression, paraoxonase activity enhancement, and the modulation of PPAR and NF-κB. While the results from animal experiments are promising, human findings published in this field are inconsistent and are still limited in several aspects. The present review aims to discuss and provide a critical analysis of PG's bioeffects on the components of metabolic syndrome, type-2 diabetes, obesity, and dyslipidemia, as well as on certain cardiovascular-related diseases. Additionally, a brief overview of the pharmacokinetic properties, safety, and bioavailability of PG-ellagitannins is included.

Sage Essential Oil as an Antimicrobial Agent against Salmonella enterica during Beef Sous Vide Storage

Sous-vide is a process comprising vacuum-sealing food, heating it to the desired temperature, and circulating it in a water bath in a sous vide machine. This cooking technique is increasingly common in homes and catering establishments due to its simplicity and affordability. However, manufacturers and chef's recommendations for low-temperature and long-term sous-vide cooking in media raise food safety concerns, particularly when preparing beef tenderloin. In this study, Salmonella enterica was found to be inactivated by heat and sage essential oil (EO) in beef samples from musculus psoas major that had been sous vide processed. To determine whether heat treatment was likely to increase the sous vide efficiency, S. enterica and sage EO were mixed. After being vacuum-packed and injected with S. enterica, the samples were cooked at 50-65 °C through the sous vide technique for the prescribed time. On days 1, 3, and 6, the amounts of S. enterica, total bacteria, and coliform bacteria were measured in the control and treated groups of beef processed sous vide. Mass spectrometry was used to identify bacterial isolates on different days. On each day that was measured, a higher number of all the microbiota was found in the samples exposed to 50 °C for 5 min. The most frequently isolated microorganisms from both groups of samples were Pseudomonas fragi (17%), Pseudomonas cedrina (8%), and Proteus vulgaris (8%); in the treated group, also S. enterica (21%), Pseudomonas fragi (13%), and Pseudomonas veronii (6%). After the heat treatment of samples at 65 °C for 20 min, the total count of bacteria and coliform bacteria was zero. It has been shown that adding sage essential oil (EO) in combination with sous vide processing technique leads to the stabilization and safety of beef tenderloin.

Therapeutics to Treat Psychiatric and Neurological Disorders: A Promising Perspective from Algerian Traditional Medicine

Ancient people sought out drugs in nature to prevent, cure, and treat their diseases, including mental illnesses. Plants were their primary source for meeting their healthcare needs. In Algeria, folk medicine remains a fundamental part of the local intangible knowledge. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive ethnomedicinal investigation and documentation of medicinal plants and the different plant formulations traditionally used in Algeria for the treatment of pain, psychiatric, and neurological disorders. It also intends to improve the current knowledge of Algerian folk medicine. Several scientific databases were used to accomplish this work. Based on this investigation, we identified 82 plant species belonging to 69 genera and spanning 38 distinct botanical families used as remedies to treat various psychological and neurological conditions. Their traditional uses and methods of preparation, along with their phytochemical composition, main bioactive constituents, and toxicity were noted. Therefore, this review provides a new resource of information on Algerian medicinal plants used in the treatment and management of neurological and psychological diseases, which can be useful not only for the documentation and conservation of traditional knowledge, but also for conducting future phytochemical and pharmacological studies.

Multistep Approach Points to Compounds Responsible for the Biological Activity and Safety of Hydrolates from Nine Lamiaceae Medicinal Plants on Human Skin Fibroblasts

As byproducts of essential oil distillation, hydrolates are used in natural cosmetics/biomedicine due to their beneficial skin effects. However, data on their safety with relevant biological targets, such as human skin cells, are scarce. Therefore, we have tested nine hydrolates from the Lamiaceae family with skin fibroblasts that are responsible for extracellular collagenous matrix builds. Thyme, oregano, and winter savoury hydrolates showed several times higher total phenolics, which correlated strongly with their radical scavenging and antioxidative capacity; there was no correlation between their viability profiles and the reducing sugar levels. No proteins/peptides were detected. All hydrolates appeared safe for prolonged skin exposure except for 10-fold diluted lavender, which showed cytotoxicity (~20%), as well as rosemary and lavandin (~10%) using viability, DNA synthesis, and cell count testing. Clary sage, oregano, lemon balm, and thyme hydrolates (10-fold diluted) increased fibroblast viability and/or proliferation by 10-30% compared with the control, while their viability remained unaffected by Mentha and winter savoury. In line with the STITCH database, increased viability could be attributed to thymol presence in oregano and thyme hydrolates in lemon balm, which is most likely attributable to neral and geranial. The proliferative effect of clary sage could be supported by alpha-terpineol, not linalool. The major volatile organic compounds (VOCs) associated with cytotoxic effects on fibroblasts were borneol, 1,8-cineole, and terpinene-4-ol. Further research with pure compounds is warranted to confirm the roles of VOCs in the observed effects that are relevant to cosmetic and wound healing aspects.

Ophthalmic Bimatoprost-Loaded Niosomal In Situ Gel: Preparation, Optimization, and In Vivo Pharmacodynamics Study

This study aimed at formulating the antiglaucoma agent, Bimatoprost (BMT), into niosomal in situ gel (BMT-ISG) for ocular delivery. Niosomes containing cholesterol/span 60 entrapping BMT were fabricated using a thin-film hydration method. The fabricated niosomes were optimized and characterized for entrapment efficiency (%EE) and size. The optimized BMT-loaded niosomal formulation prepared at a cholesterol/span 60 ratio of 1:2 exhibited the highest entrapment (81.2 ± 1.2%) and a small particle size (167.3 ± 9.1 nm), and they were selected for incorporation into in situ gelling systems (BMT-ISGs) based on Pluronic F127/Pluronic F68. Finally, the in vivo efficiency of the BMT-ISG formulation, in terms of lowering the intraocular pressure (IOP) in normotensive male albino rabbits following ocular administration, was assessed and compared to that of BMT ophthalmic solution. All the formulated BMT-ISGs showed sol-gel transition temperatures ranging from 28.1 °C to 40.5 ± 1.6 °C. In addition, the BMT-ISG formulation sustained in vitro BMT release for up to 24 h. Interestingly, in vivo experiments depicted that topical ocular administration of optimized BMT-ISG formulation elicited a significant decline in IOP, with maximum mean decreases in IOP of 9.7 ± 0.6 mm Hg, compared to BMT aqueous solution (5.8 ± 0.6 mm Hg). Most importantly, no signs of irritation to the rabbit's eye were observed following topical ocular administration of the optimized BMT-ISG formulation. Collectively, our results suggested that niosomal in situ gels might be a feasible delivery vehicle for topical ocular administration of anti-glaucoma agents, particularly those with poor ocular bioavailability.