Free-radical scavenging action of medicinal herbs from Ghana: Thonningia sanguinea on experimentally-induced liver injuries

Effects of mulberry leaves on production performance and the potential modulation of antioxidative status in laying hens

This study evaluated the antioxidant ability of Taisung No. 3 mulberry leaf extract (MLE) as well as the potential of mulberry leaf (ML)-based dietary supplementation for modulating the antioxidative status of laying hens. The results showed that the MLE had a total phenolic compound content of 7.4 ± 0.15 mg of gallic acid equivalent/g dry weight (DW) and a total flavonoid content of 4.4 ± 0.19 mg of quercetin equivalent/g DW. The 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free-radical-scavenging ability was 45.9% when 0.1 mg/mL MLE was added. The lipid oxidation inhibition ability was 43.9% when 50 mg/mL MLE was added. We subjected 96 laying hens (Hendrix Genetics) to 4 treatments, namely diets supplemented with dry ML at 0 (control), 0.5, 1, or 2% for 12 weeks. Each treatment involved 8 replicates with 3 hens each. The results indicated that the 0.5% ML-supplemented group exhibited significantly higher mRNA levels of antioxidant-regulated genes, such as Nrf2, HO-1, and GST, and significantly lower ROMO1 gene expression levels at wk 12. The serum malondialdehyde level was lower and the catalase activity and superoxide dismutase activity were higher in all the ML-supplemented groups than in the control group. The egg mass and feed conversion rate significantly improved in the ML-supplemented groups compared with the control group, and, overall, 1% ML supplementation had the most favorable effects at one to 12 weeks. The egg yolk weight, shell weight, shell strength, shell thickness, yolk color, and Haugh unit were increased among all ML-supplemented groups at one to 12 weeks. On the basis of these observations, we conclude that 0.5% ML can be used as a new feed additive to potentially modulate the antioxidative status of laying hens and improve their production performance and egg quality.

Effect of germination on composition profiling and antioxidant activity of the polysaccharide-protein conjugate in black soybean [Glycinemax (L.) Merr.]

Black soybeans are commonly consumed as health foods and used in traditional Chinese medicine, but they are rarely cultivated as edible sprouts. During germination, the composition of seeds undergoes distinct changes that cause variations in bioactivities. In this study, the water-soluble black soybean polysaccharide (BSPS) was isolated from sprouts harvested at two-day intervals during the first week of seedling growth. The chromatographic profiles of the BSPS in ungerminated seeds showed fraction 1 (F1, about 64kDa) and fraction 2 (F2, <1kDa) that degraded during germination. The polysaccharide in F1 fraction of ungerminated seeds was covalently associated with the protein and mainly contained arabinose, galactose, glucose, and galacturonic acid at various levels during germination. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) scavenging activities and the reducing power of F1 were highest on the seventh day of germination. The phenolic and flavonoid content significantly increased after the fifth day of germination, suggesting that these ingredients also contributed to the antioxidant activities. During long-term germination, the polysaccharide-protein conjugate in the F1 fraction with enhanced antioxidant activities is regarded as a potential natural antioxidant for the development of functional foods.

African crocus (Curculigo pilosa) and wonderful kola (Buchholzia coriacea) seeds modulate critical enzymes relevant to erectile dysfunction and oxidative stress

Background

The seeds of African crocus (AC) (Curculigo pilosa) and wonderful kola (WK) (Buchholzia coriacea) are commonly used in folklore medicine in managing erectile dysfunction (ED) without the full understanding of the possible mechanism of actions. This study investigated and compared the effects of aqueous extracts from the seeds of AC and WK on arginase and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities and some pro-oxidant [FeSO4 and sodium nitroprusside (SNP)]-induced lipid peroxidation in rat penile homogenate in vitro.

Method

Aqueous extracts of AC and WK were prepared, and their effects on arginase and AChE activities as well as FeSO4- and SNP-induced lipid peroxidation in rat penile homogenate were assessed. Furthermore, phenolic constituents of the extract were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode-array detector (HPLC-DAD).

Results

Both extracts exhibited concentration-dependent inhibition on arginase (AC, IC50=0.05 mg/mL; WK, IC50=0.22 mg/mL) and AChE (AC, IC50=0.68 mg/mL; WK, IC50=0.28 mg/mL) activities. The extracts also inhibited FeSO4- and SNP-induced lipid peroxidation in rat penile homogenate. HPLC-DAD analysis revealed the presence of phenolic acids (gallic, caffeic, ellagic and coumaric acids) and flavonoids (catechin, quercetin and apigenin) in AC and WK. AC had higher arginase inhibitory and antioxidative activities but lower AChE inhibitory properties when compared with WK.

Conclusions

These effects could explain the possible mechanistic actions of the seeds in the management/treatment of ED and could be as a result of individual and/or synergistic effect of the constituent phenolic compounds of the seeds.

Antioxidant and nephro-protective effect of Juglans regia vegetable oil against lead-induced nephrotoxicity in rats and its characterization by GC-MS

Lead (Pb) intoxication remains a major health hazard causing various deleterious effects especially on renal and hematologic system. The current study elucidated the potential protective effect of JRVO against nephrotoxicity induced by lead. Male rats were randomly divided into three groups: group one (control) received ad libitum distilled water and 1 mL of saline solution (0.9 %) given by intra-peritoneal (i.p) injection, group two (Pb) was kept on tap distilled water and animals were i.p, injected daily with lead every two days from day five until day ten, namely the sacrifice day, and group three (Pb+J) was administered by intra-peritoneal injection of Pb with the same dose and same way with Group two, while JRVO extract was administered daily by gavage during ten days. The exposure of lead reduced the number of red and white blood cells. Besides, plasma biomarkers (urea, uric acid, creatinine, LDH and ALP) levels were reduced. Lipid and protein per-oxidations increased and objectified by high TBARS and PCOs levels, while glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities showed a significant decline after ten-day treatment. Conversely, the JRVO prevented kidney biomarker changes by improving hepatotoxicity induced by lead as evidenced by restoring the biochemical markers cited above to near normal levels. Kidney histoarchitecture confirmed the biochemical parameters and the beneficial role of JRVO. It can be concluded that the administration of JRVO alleviates Pb-induced toxicity, thus demonstrating its potent antioxidant efficacy.

HPLC-DAD fingerprinting analysis, antioxidant activities of Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray leaves and its inhibition of key enzymes linked to Alzheimer's disease

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Current study supports antioxidant activity of Tithonia diversifolia leaves.

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Current study also supports anti cholinesterase activity of Tithonia diversifolia leaves.

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Current investigation adequately characterized the phenolic compounds of Tithonia diversifolia leaves.

Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray leaves have long been used to manage neurodegenerative diseases without scientific basis. This study characterized the phenolic constituents, evaluated the antioxidant properties of phenolic extracts from T. diversifolia leaves used as traditional medicine in Africa and its inhibition of key enzymes linked to Alzheimer’s disease. The extract was rich in phenolic acids (gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid and p-coumaric acid) and flavonoids (apigenin) and had 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazil radical scavenging abilities (IC₅₀ = 41.05 μg. mL⁻¹), 2,2-Azino-bis3-ethylbenthiazoline-6sulphonic acid radical scavenging ability (IC₅₀ = 33.51 μg. mL⁻¹), iron chelation (IC₅₀ = 38.50 μg. mL⁻¹), reducing power (Fe³⁺- Fe²⁺) (7.34 AAEmg/100 g), inhibited acetylcholinesterase (IC₅₀ = 39.27 μg mL⁻¹) and butyrylcholinesterase (IC₅₀ = 35.01 μg mL⁻¹) activities. These results reveal the leaf as a rich source of phenolic compounds with antioxidant and cholinesterase inhibitory activity.

In vitro antioxidant potential and inhibitory effect of hydro-ethanolic extract from African black velvet tamarind (Dialium indium) pulp on type 2 diabetes linked enzymes

The alarming rate of diabetes mellitus (DM) globally is bothersome and has drawn the search light of researchers on naturally endowed phytonutrients being an alternative in managing the menace. Therefore, the current study was designed to investigate some antioxidant parameters embedded in the extract of Dialium indium (DI) fruit pulp and also, to elucidate its antidiabetic potentials through the inhibition of two key carbohydrate-metabolizing enzymes such as α-amylase and intestinal α-glucosidase. Hydro-ethanolic extract of DI fruit pulp was used for the antioxidants and enzyme inhibitory bioassays through various convectional antioxidant assay methods in vitro. In the results, total phenolic content of the extract had; 6.74 ±3.38 mg GAE.g-1, total flavonoid contents; 0.02 ±0.01 mg QE.g-1 and FRAP; 0.84  ±0.47 mg AAE.g-1 dried sample. Also, there was a marked significant (p <0.05) difference observed in the inhibition of α-amylase and intestinal α-glucosidase by the different concentrations of the extract used in concentration-dependent manner with their different EC50. The inhibition demonstrated against these two carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes possibly could be through the embedded antioxidant potentials of the fruit pulp and this if properly harnessed, it could be helpful in the management of type 2 diabetes.

Chromatographic fingerprint analysis, antioxidant properties, and inhibition of cholinergic enzymes (acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase) of phenolic extracts from Irvingia gabonensis (Aubry-Lecomte ex O'Rorke) Baill bark

BACKGROUND

Irvingia gabonensis stem bark is a medicinal plant used in most parts of Africa to manage a number of ailments including neurodegenerative diseases that occur without scientific basis. This work characterized the phenolic composition, evaluated the cholinergic enzymes (acetylcholinesterase, AChE and butyrylcholinesterase, BChE) inhibition, and assessed the antioxidant activity of phenolic extracts from I. gabonensis (Aubry-Lecomte ex O'Rorke) Baill bark.

METHODS

Total phenol and flavonoids content was evaluated in addition to antioxidant activity as shown by Fe2+ chelation, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging ability, and 2,2-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging ability. Inhibitory activities on AChE and BChE were evaluated.

RESULTS

The extract was found to be rich in phenolic acid (ellagic acid) and flavonoids (quercetrin, kaempferol, and apigenin). The phenolic extracts displayed DPPH radical scavenging ability (IC50=19.98 μg/mL), ABTS radical scavenging ability (IC50=18.25 μg/mL), iron chelation (IC50=113.10 μg/mL), and reducing power (Fe3+ to Fe2+) (5.94 mg ascorbic acid equivalent/100 g). Extracts of I. gabonensis inhibited AChE (IC50=32.90 μg/mL) and BChE (IC50=41.50 μg/mL) activities in concentration-dependent manner.

CONCLUSIONS

Hence, possible mechanism through which the stem bark executes their anti-Alzheimer's disease activity might be by inhibiting cholinesterase activities in addition to suppressing oxidative-stress-induced neurodegeneration.

Modulatory Effects of Alkaloid Extract from Gongronema latifolium (Utazi) and Lasianthera africana (Editan) on Activities of Enzymes Relevant to Neurodegeneration

Most alkaloids are produced by plants as a defense mechanism against herbivores. Since alkaloids are known to possess pharmacological effects, this study sought to investigate the in vitro modulatory effect of alkaloid obtained from two commonly consumed vegetables in southern Nigeria, Lasianthera africana (editan) and Gongronema latifolium (utazi), on some enzyme activities relevant to neurodegeneration. Effects of the alkaloids on cholinesterases (acetylcholinesterase [AChE] and butyrylcholinesterase [BChE]) and monoamine oxidase (MAO) activities were determined in vitro. In addition, Fe²⁺ chelating ability as well as radical-scavenging abilities were determined. Alkaloid profile was also determined using gas chromatography coupled with flame ionization detector (GC-FID). The results revealed that the alkaloids inhibited AChE, BChE, and MAO activities in a concentration-dependent manner, such that the alkaloid from G. latifolium showed higher enzyme inhibition (AChE [IC₅₀ = 87.39 µg/ml], BChE [IC₅₀ = 118.65 µg/ml], and MAO [IC₅₀ = 61.37 µg/ml]) than L. africana (AChE = 115.60 µg/ml; BChE = 169.48 µg/ml; MAO = 73.72 µg/ml). In addition, GC-FID analysis revealed abundance of choline in both extracts. Gongronema latifolium and Lasianthera africana alkaloid extracts inhibit enzymes (acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, and monoamine oxidase) implicated in neurodegenerative diseases. Hence, these vegetables could offer dietary supplement in the management of neurodegenerative diseases.

Antioxidant properties and anti-mutagenic potential of Piper Cubeba fruit extract and molecular docking of certain bioactive compounds

Spices and herbs are recognized as sources of natural antioxidants and thus play an important role in the chemoprevention of diseases and aging. Piper cubeba is one among them and known for its medicinal properties for decades. Various biological activities are associated with its extract and phytocompounds. However, the anti-mutagenic activity of antioxidant rich extract is less explored. In this study, we performed the fraction-based antioxidant activity of P. cubeba using four different assays and evaluated the anti-mutagenic activity of most potent antioxidant fraction using Salmonella typhimurium tester strains against four mutagens (methyl methanesulfonate [MMS], sodium azide [SA], benzo(a)pyrene, and 2-aminoflourene) respectively. Among all tested fractions at 25-200 µg/ml, ethanolic extract revealed highest antioxidant activity and significant anti-mutagenicity against both direct and indirect acting mutagens at least one tester strain. Phytochemical analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) revealed the presence of various phytocompounds including copaene, isocaryophyllene, α-cubebene, etc. Molecular docking studies on DNA binding interactions of GC/MS detected phytocompounds highlight the possible mode of binding. In summary, these in vitro studies have provided the scientific basis for validation of using this plant in the traditional system of medicine and highlighted the need for exploring the role of various compounds for therapeutic efficacy. On the other hand, synergistic interaction among phytocompounds is to be explored to optimize or standardize the extracts for the exploitation in modern phytomedicine.

Vicilin-A major storage protein of mungbean exhibits antioxidative potential, antiproliferative effects and ACE inhibitory activity

Enzymatic hydrolysates of different food proteins demonstrate health benefits. Search for diet related food protein hydrolysates is therefore of interest within the scope of functional foods. Mungbean is one of the popular foods in India because of rich protein source. In this study, mungbean vicilin protein (MBVP) was enzymatically hydrolysed by alcalase and trypsin under optimal conditions. We have studied the antioxidant, antiproliferative and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activities of mungbean vicilin protein hydrolysate (MBVPH) vis-a-vis alcalase-generated mungbean vicilin protein hydrolysate (AMBVPH) and trypsin-generated mungbean vicilin protein hydrolysate (TMBVPH). The results showed that MBVPH exhibited higher antioxidant potential, ACE inhibitory and antiproliferative activities than MBVP. The alcalase treated hydrolysate displayed highest ACE inhibitory activity with IC50 value of 0.32 mg protein/ml. The MBVP showed significant antiproliferative activity against both MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells at the doses between 0.2-1.0 mg/ml. The data suggested that MBVPH can be utilized as physiologically active functional foods with sufficient antihypertensive activity. The results indicate that mungbean can be utilized as a rich resource of functional foods.

Evaluation of antioxidant potentials of different solvent-fractions of Dialium indium (African Black velvet tamarind) fruit pulp - in vitro

Plant phytonutrients have been harnessed for their various curative properties both in vitro and in vivo. In this study African black velvet tamarind (ABVT) fruit pulp was evaluated for it antioxidant potentials using chloroform and hexane fractions through different antioxidant parameters. In the results; total phenolic contents quantified in mg GAE/dried sample in chloroform and hexane extracts were; 14.57 ±5.85 and 9.78 ±4.61, total flavonoid contents in chloroform and hexane extracts as; 48.58 ±0.00 and 27.35 ±0.00 while the FRAP (µg AAE.g-1 dried sample) was lower in chloroform (298.10 ±0.00) than hexane extracts (1029.81 ±0.00). More also, ability of varied concentrations of the extracts (with their IC50) to cause inhibition against Fe2+-induced MDA that was determined by TBARS in rat's brain and liver tissue homogenates, Fe2+-chelating ability and other antioxidant assays, showed an appreciable significant (p <0.05) difference. The various antioxidant properties showed by ABVT has indicated that, if the pulp is incorporated in diet, it could serve as an alternative in managing various ROS-induced degenerative ailments as it has been clearly demonstrated in the protection of brain and liver homogenates from Fe2+-induced oxidative stress. 

Elite hairy roots of Raphanus sativus (L.) as a source of antioxidants and flavonoids

An efficient protocol for hairy root induction in radish was established by optimizing several parameters that affect the efficiency of Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated transformations. Explants wounded using sterile hypodermic needle, infected with Agrobacterium suspension (0.6 OD600) for 10 min and co-cultivated in 1/2 MS medium containing acetosyringone (100 µM) for 2 days displayed maximum percentage of hairy root induction using MTCC 2364 (77.6%) and MTCC 532 (67.6%). On further experiments with MTCC 2364 initiated hairy roots, maximum biomass accumulation (fresh weight = 9.50 g; dry weight = 1.48 g) was achieved in liquid 1/2 MS medium supplemented with 87.6 mM sucrose after 40 days of culture. Transgenic state of hairy roots of MTCC 2364 was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction using rolB- and rolC-specific primers. The MTCC 2364-induced hairy roots produced higher amount of phenolic (33.0 mg g-1), flavonoid (48.0 mg g-1), and quercetin (114.8 mg g-1) content compared to auxin-induced roots of non-transformed radish. Furthermore, the results of ferric reducing antioxidant power and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl assay confirmed that the antioxidant activity of MTCC 2364 root extracts was improved when compared to auxin-induced roots of non-transformed radish. The present study offers a new insight in radish for production of phenolics and flavonoids (quercetin) using A. rhizogenes-mediated hairy root induction.

New Pd/Pt(ii) complexes as unsymmetrical ylide-based chemotherapeutic agents: synthesis, characterization, biological activity, electrochemical, and X-ray studies

New P,C-coordinated Pd/Pt-complexes were characterized successfully and the cytotoxic studies showed that they can be used as non-toxic labels for cellular imaging.

Chemical studies on the parasitic plant Thonningia sanguinea Vahl

A detailed first-time report on plant sterols and one flavanone characterized from Thonningia sanguinea provides significant evidence for its ethnomedicinal usage.

Chemical composition and biological investigation of Pelargonium endlicherianum root extracts

CONTEXT

Pelargonium endlicherianum Fenzl. (Geraniaceae) roots and flowers are traditionally used in Turkey as a decoction treatment against intestinal parasites. Neither the chemical composition nor the potential bioactivity of the plant roots has been studied before.

OBJECTIVES

The phenolic content and effects of P. endlicherianum root extracts on antioxidant enzyme levels on A549 cells were studied for the first time.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The chemical composition was analyzed via spectrophotometric and chromatographic (HPLC MS/MS and HPLC) techniques. The antioxidant activity was determined at different concentrations ranging from 0.001 to 2 mg/mL using DPPH^• and ABTS^•+ radical scavenging activity, β-carotene-linoleic acid co-oxidation assay, protection of 2-deoxyribose and bovine brain-derived phospholipids against a hydroxyl radical-mediated degradation assay. Glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities were also studied as well as the effects of the extracts on nitric oxide levels on IL-1β stimulated A549 cells.

RESULTS

The key parameters for the most active ethyl acetate extract included the following: DPPH^• IC₅₀: 0.23 mg/mL, TEAC/ABTS: 2.17 mmol/L Trolox, reduction: 0.41 mmol/g AsscE, and protection of lipid peroxidation IC₅₀: 0.05 mg/mL. Furthermore, the ethyl acetate extract increased the SOD level significantly compared to control group (4.48 U/mL) at concentrations of 100 and 200 μg/mL SOD, 5.50 and 5.67 U/mL, respectively. Apocynin was identified as the major component, and the ethyl acetate fraction was found to be rich in phenolic compounds.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Pelargonium endlicherianum root extracts displayed antioxidant activity and increased the antioxidant enzyme levels in IL-1β stimulated A549 cells, while decreasing the NO levels.

Phenolic extracts and amino acids content from Cucumeropsis mannii naudin and Citrullus lanatus inhibit relevant enzymes of erectile dysfunction in rat's penile tissue

•A focused on the erectogenic potentials of two tropical pumpkin seeds was established.•The antioxidant properties of these seed varieties were also discussed.•The inhibitory effects of the seeds on key enzymes relevant to ED were critically explored.•The potentials of the seeds to manage ED were recommended.

Phytochemical screening and evaluation of in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the indigenous medicinal plant Albizia odoratissima

CONTEXT

Albizia odoratissima (L. f.) Benth has been used in Indian folk medicine to treat numerous inflammatory pathologies, such as leprosy, ulcers, burns and asthma.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of A. odoratissima.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Dried leaves of A. odoratissima were extracted in organic solvents (hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and methanol). The total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) were determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu and aluminum chloride colorimetric methods, respectively. The antioxidant activity was examined using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), 2,2'-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays. The antibacterial activity was examined using minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and the minimum bacterial concentration (MBC), determined by broth microdilution method against Gram-negative bacteria (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Proteus vulgaris) and Gram-positive bacterium (Staphylococcus aureus).

RESULTS

The TPC ranged from 4.40 ± 1.06 to 1166.66 ± 31.85 mg GAE/g of dry weight (DW), and the TFC ranged from 48.35 ± 3.62 to 109.74 ± 1.84 mg QE/g of DW. The IC₅₀ values of the ethyl acetate extract for DPPH, ABTS, and H₂O₂ were 10.96 ± 0.40, 4.35 ± 0.07, and 163.82 ± 1.52 μg/mL, respectively. Both methanol and ethyl acetate extracts demonstrated effective antibacterial activity with MICs and MBCs values ranging 136-546 μg/mL and 273-1093 μg/mL, respectively, against the tested pathogenic species.

CONCLUSIONS

The leaves of A. odoratissima showed potent free radical scavenging property and antimicrobial activity.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Herbal Formula SC-E3 in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW 264.7 Macrophages

SC-E3 is a novel herbal formula composed of five oriental medicinal herbs that are used to treat a wide range of inflammatory diseases in Korean traditional medicine. In this study, we sought to determine the effects of SC-E3 on free radical generation and inflammatory response in lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) treated RAW 264.7 macrophages and the molecular mechanism involved. The ethanol extract of SC-E3 showed good free radical scavenging activity and inhibited LPS-induced reactive oxygen species generation. SC-E3 significantly inhibited the production of the LPS-induced inflammatory mediators, nitric oxide and prostaglandin E₂, by suppressing the expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2, respectively. SC-E3 also prevented the secretion of the proinflammatory cytokines, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6, and inhibited LPS-induced NF-κB activation and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Furthermore, SC-E3 induced the expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) by promoting the nuclear translocation and transactivation of Nrf2. Taken together, these results suggest that SC-E3 has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and that these effects are due to the inhibitions of NF-κB and MAPK and the induction of Nrf2-mediated HO-1 expression in macrophages. These findings provide scientific evidence supporting the potential use of SC-E3 for the treatment and prevention of various inflammatory diseases.

Phenolic Composition, Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Antimicrobial Activities of Alchemilla mollis (Buser) Rothm

The current study was designed to evaluate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities of Alchemilla mollis (Buser) Rothm. (Rosaceae) aerial parts extracts. Chemical composition was analyzed by spectrophotometric and chromatographic (HPLC) techniques. The antioxidant properties assessed included DPPH^· and ABTS^·+ radical scavenging, β-carotene-linoleic acid co-oxidation assay. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated with disc diffusion and micro dilution method. In order to evaluate toxicity of the extracts, with the sulforhodamine B colorimetric assay L929 cell line (mouse fibroblast) was used. The anti-inflammatory activities of the potent antioxidant extracts (methanol, 70% methanol, and water extracts) were determined by measuring the inhibitory effects on NO production and pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α levels in lipopolysaccharide stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. 70% methanol and water extracts which were found to be rich in phenolic compounds (184.79 and 172.60 mg GAE/g extract) showed higher antioxidant activity. Luteolin-7-O-glucoside was the main compound in the extracts. Ethyl acetate and 70% methanol extracts showed higher antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella enteritidis with MIC value of 125 μg/ml. 70% methanol extract potentially inhibited the NO and TNF-α production (18.43 μm and 1556.22 pg/ml, respectively, 6 h).

Evaluation of antioxidant profile of various solvent extracts of Carissa opaca leaves: an edible plant

Background

Carissa opaca leaves were conventionally recommended by local hakims in Pakistan for curing various human diseases including renal, hepatic and jaundice. In this work we arranged to study the antioxidant status of various fractions of C. opaca leaves through nine multifaceted assay systems.

Methods

Various fractions were prepared through solvent–solvent extraction technique on the basis of their polarity. The fractions were screened via different free radicals viz; DPPH·, ABTS^·+,OH·, O₂·, iron chelating and hydrogen peroxide assays. Total concentrations of phenolic content (TPC) and flavonoids were studied.

Results

Various fractions of C. opaca leaves showed significant activities against the tested reactive free radicals. The C. opaca was shown to have the highest TPCs with lowest EC₅₀ values for the DPPH·, ABTS^·+ radical scavenging capacities and iron chelating scavenging efficiency, moreover, C. opaca had best activities in scavenging of superoxide radicals and hydrogen peroxide as well as potently scavenged the hydroxyl radicals.

Conclusion

These results suggest the potential of C. opaca leaves as a medicine against free-radical-associated oxidative damage.

Herbal formula SC-E1 suppresses lipopolysaccharide-stimulated inflammatory responses through activation of Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway in RAW 264.7 macrophages

BACKGROUND

SC-E1 is a novel herbal formula consisting of five oriental medicinal herbs used frequently in traditional herbal medicine for the treatment of inflammatory diseases in Korea. This study examined the effects of SC-E1 on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages and the molecular mechanism involved.

METHODS

The cytotoxic effect of the SC-E1 extract was evaluated in RAW 264.7 cells by MTT assay. The effects of SC-E1 on the free radical scavenging and generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species were measured using DPPH and DCFH-DA, respectively. The effects of SC-E1 on the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, inflammatory mediators, and related products were determined by ELISA and western blotting. The molecular mechanism and the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) were examined by western blot analysis and immunocytochemistry.

RESULTS

SC-E1 exhibited strong anti-oxidant activity and inhibited LPS-induced NO secretion as well as iNOS expression and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, without affecting the cell viability. SC-E1 also suppressed the LPS-induced NF-κB activation and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Moreover, SC-E1 induced heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression via the nuclear translocation of Nrf2. The inhibitory effects of SC-E1 on the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines were abrogated by treatment with SnPP, an HO-1 inhibitor.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that SC-E1 exerts its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects through the inhibition of NF-κB and MAPK as well as Nrf2-mediated HO-1 induction in macrophages. These findings provide evidences for SC-E1 to be considered as a new prescription for treating inflammatory diseases.

Erection-stimulating, anti-diabetic and antioxidant properties of Hunteria umbellata and Cylicodiscus gabunensis water extractable phytochemicals

Background Herbs have been used as an aphrodisiac since ages. This study was designed to investigate the effects of Hunteria umbellata (HU) seeds and Cylicodiscus gabunensis (CG) stem barks aqueous extracts on key enzymes relevant to erectile dysfunction (phosphodiesterase-5 and arginase) and type-2 diabetes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase). Methods In ascertaining the erectogenic and antidiabetic properties of the extracts, the effects of the extracts on activities of some enzymes relevant to erectile dysfunction (arginase and phosphodiesterase-5) and type-2 diabetes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase) were determined. Antioxidant properties of the extracts were assessed through several antioxidant assays (DPPH˙, OH˙). Furthermore, their phenolic constituents were estimated and quantified using HPLC. Results The results revealed that both extracts inhibited α-amylase and α-glucosidase in a concentration-dependent manner. HU showed higher α-amylase (IC50=221.30 µg/mL) and α-glucosidase (IC50=184.35 µg/mL) inhibition than CG. Also, both extracts inhibited phosphodiesterase-5 and arginase in a dose-dependent manner in vitro; nevertheless, HU showed higher inhibition [phosphodiesterase-5 (IC50=539.72 µg/mL); arginase (41.53 µg/mL)] than CG [phosphodiesterase-5 (IC50=611.35 µg/mL); arginase (47.95 µg/mL)]. In addition, the extracts possess antioxidant properties through radical (DPPH and OH) scavenging and metal (Fe2+) chelating abilities. HPLC analysis of phenolic constituents revealed the abundance of gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, ellagic acid and quercetin. Conclusions The ability of samples' extract to inhibit some of key enzymes relevant to erectile dysfunction and type-2 diabetes could render them cheap, natural and alternative therapy with erectogenic and antidiabetic potentials.

Identification of food preservative, stress relief compounds by GC-MS and HR-LC/Q-TOF/MS; evaluation of antioxidant activity of Acalypha indica leaves methanolic extract (in vitro) and polyphenolic fraction (in vivo)

The present paper has been designed to evaluate phytochemical profile, in vitro free radical scavenging activity, cytotoxicity of methanolic extract and in vivo antioxidant activity of polyphenolic fraction of Acalypha indica leaves. Methanolic extract of A. indica leaves (MEAIL) contained rich amount of phenols, flavonoids and saponins. The GC-MS analysis of extract revealed 13 compounds, whereas HR-LC/Q-TOF/MS showed 87, and all were coincided with functional groups identified by FTIR. The extract showed good scavenging activity on DPPH, H2O2, hydroxyl radicals and metal ions. The Polyphenolic fraction induced the antioxidant enzymes in Diabetic rats. The extract also potentially showed cytotoxic (LC50: 140.02 µg/mL) activity against brine shrimp. Based on these analytical results, in vitro and in vivo experiments, it was concluded that the MEAIL has encompassed rich amount of polyphenols (antioxidants) and cytotoxic compounds for their respective activities. Polyphenolic fraction has the induction capacity to elevate cellular antioxidant enzymes in diabetic animals.

Does caffeine influence the anticholinesterase and antioxidant properties of donepezil? Evidence from in vitro and in vivo studies

Caffeine is adjudged world's most consumed pharmacologically active food component. With reports of the potential cognitive enhancing properties of caffeine, we sought to investigate if caffeine can influence the anticholinesterase and antioxidant properties of donepezil-a selective acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor used in the management of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In vitro, we investigated the effect of donepezil (DON), caffeine (CAF) and their various combinations on the activity of AChE in rat brain homogenate, as well as determined their antioxidant properties. In vivo, two rat groups were administered single oral dose of DON (5 mg/kg) and CAF (5 mg/kg) separately, while three groups, each received 5 mg/kg DON plus either 5, 50 or 100 mg/kg CAF for three hours, after which the rats were sacrificed and brain isolated. Results show that CAF concentration dependently and synergistically increased the anticholinesterase properties of DON in vitro. Also, CAF produced a significant influence on investigated in vitro antioxidant properties of DON. Furthermore, rats administered 5 mg/kg CAF and DON produced no significant difference in AChE activity compared to rats administered DON alone. However, co-administration of either 50 or 100 mg/kg CAF with DON lead to higher AChE activity compared to both control and DON groups. In addition, DON, CAF and their various combinations augmented brain antioxidant status in treated rats. We conclude that while low caffeine consumption may improve the antioxidant properties of donepezil without having a significant influence on its anticholinesterase effect, moderate-high caffeine consumption could also improve the antioxidant properties of donepezil but reduce its anticholinesterase effect; nevertheless, a comprehensive clinical trial is essential to fully explore these possibilities in human AD condition.

Antioxidant activities of honeybee products and their mixtures

In this study, the total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activity, and free radical scavenging activities (FRSA) of 70 samples comprising honeybee products (honey, pollen, royal jelly, and propolis) and their mixtures were determined. The TPC was determined in accordance with the Folin-Ciocalteu method, antioxidant activity with phosphomolybdenum, and FRSA with the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) assays. Honeybee propolis showed the greatest TPC, antioxidant activity, and FRSA followed by pollen, honey, and royal jelly, respectively. A positive correlation was observed between TPC and antioxidant activity of honey, pollen and mixed samples (respectively, r=0.91, r=0.93 and r=0.92) (p<0.01). Similarly, honey and mixed samples exhibited positive correlations with TPC and FRSA (respectively, r=0.98 and r=0.92) (p<0.01). It was concluded that honeybee products and their mixtures have antioxidant activity and FRSA and these effects may be attributed to their phenolic content.

Phenolic constituents and modulatory effects of Raffia palm leaf (Raphia hookeri) extract on carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes linked to type-2 diabetes

This study sought to investigate the effects of Raffia palm (Raphia hookeri) leaf extract on enzymes linked to type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and pro-oxidant induced oxidative stress in rat pancreas. The extract was prepared and its α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory effects were determined. Radical [2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)] scavenging and Fe²⁺-chelating abilities, and inhibition of Fe²⁺-induced lipid peroxidation in rat pancreas homogenate were assessed. Furthermore, total phenol and flavonoid contents, reducing property, and high performance liquid chromatography diode array detector (HPLC-DAD) fingerprint of the extract were also determined. Our results revealed that the extract inhibited α-amylase (IC₅₀ = 110.4 μg/mL) and α-glucosidase (IC₅₀ = 99.96 μg/mL) activities in concentration dependent manners which were lower to the effect of acarbose (amylase: IC₅₀ = 18.30 μg/mL; glucosidase: IC₅₀ = 20.31 μg/mL). The extract also scavenged DPPH radical, chelated Fe²⁺ and inhibited Fe²⁺-induced lipid peroxidation in rat pancreas all in concentration dependent manners with IC₅₀ values of 402.9 μg/mL, 108.9 μg/mL and 367.0 μg/mL respectively. The total phenol and flavonoid contents were 39.73 mg GAE/g and 21.88 mg QAE/g respectively, while the reducing property was 25.62 mg AAE/g. The HPLC analysis revealed the presence of chlorogenic acid (4.17 mg/g) and rutin (5.11 mg/g) as the major phenolic compounds in the extract. Therefore, the ability of the extract to inhibit carbohydrate hydrolyzing enzymes and protect against pancreatic oxidative damage may be an important mechanisms supporting its antidiabetic properties and could make Raffia palm leaf useful in complementary/alternative therapy for management of T2DM. However, further studies such as in vivo should be carried out.

Aqueous extracts of avocado pear (Persea americana Mill.) leaves and seeds exhibit anti-cholinesterases and antioxidant activities in vitro

BACKGROUND

Avocado pear (Persea americana Mill.) leaves and seeds are used in traditional medicine for the treatment/management of Alzheimer disease (AD); however, information on the mechanism of actions is limited. This study sought to investigate the effect of P. americana leaf and seed aqueous extracts on some enzymes linked with AD (acetylcholinesterase [AChE] and butyrylcholinesterase [BChE] activities) and their antioxidant potentials in vitro.

METHODS

The inhibitory effects of extracts on AChE and BChE activities and antioxidant potentials (inhibition of Fe2+- and sodium nitroprusside-induced thiobarbiturate reactive species [TBARS] production in rat brain homogenates, radicals [1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, hydroxyl, and nitric oxide] scavenging and iron [Fe] chelation abilities) were investigated. Phenolic content and phytochemical screening were carried out. Alkaloid profile was also determined using gas chromatography coupled with flame ionization detector (GC-FID).

RESULTS

The extracts inhibited AChE and BChE activities and prooxidant-induced TBARS production in a dose-dependent manner, with the seed extract having the highest inhibitory effect and the leaf extract exhibiting higher phenolic content and radical scavenging abilities, but lower Fe chelation ability compared with that of the seed. The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of saponins, alkaloids, and terpenoids in both extracts, whereas the total alkaloid profile was higher in the seed extract than in the leaf extract, as revealed by GC-FID.

CONCLUSIONS

The anti-cholinesterase and antioxidant activities of avocado leaf and seed could be linked to their phytoconstituents and might be the possible mechanisms underlying their use as a cheap and natural treatment/management of AD. However, these extracts should be further investigated in vivo.