Phytochemicals of Moringa oleifera: a review of their nutritional, therapeutic and industrial significance

Potentials of roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds extract for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have gained significant attention in various applications due to their unique properties that differ from bulk or macro-sized counterparts. In the advancement of nanotechnology, a reliable, non-toxic, and eco-friendly green synthesis has widely been developed as an alternative method for the production of AgNPs, overcoming limitations associated with the traditional physical and chemical methods. Green synthesis of AgNPs involves the utilization of biological sources including plant extracts with silver salt as the precursor. The potential of phytochemicals in plant extracts serves as a reducing/capping and stabilizing agent to aid in the bio-reduction of Ag+ ions into a stable nanoform, Ag0. This review provides insights into the potentials of various plant parts like root, stem, leaf, flower, fruit, and seed extracts that have been extensively reported for the synthesis of AgNPs.

Moringa oleifera flowers: insights into their aroma chemistry, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and enzyme inhibitory properties

BACKGROUND

Moringa oleifera is a highly nutritious plant widely used in traditional medicine.

RESULTS

The aroma constituents present in the fresh flowers of M. oleifera versus the hydrodistilled oil and hexane extract were studied using GC-MS. Aldehydes were the major class detected in the fresh flowers (64.75%) with E-2-hexenal being the predominant component constituting > 50%. Alkane hydrocarbons, monoterpenes, and aldehydes constituted > 50% of the hydrodistilled oil, while alkane hydrocarbons exclusively constitute up to 65.48% of the hexane extract with heptacosane being the major component (46.2%). The cytotoxicity of the hexane extract was assessed on RAW 264.7 macrophages using the MTT assay which revealed no significant cytotoxicity at concentrations of 1 µg/mL and displayed IC50 value at 398.53 µg/mL as compared to celecoxib (anti-inflammatory drug) with IC50 value at 274.55 µg/ml. The hexane extract of Moringa flowers displayed good anti-inflammatory activity through suppression of NO, IL-6, and TNF-α in lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages. The total phenolic and flavonoid content in the hexane extract was found to be 12.51 ± 0.28 mg GAE/g extract and 0.16 ± 0.01 mg RuE/g extract, respectively. It displayed moderate antioxidant activity as indicated by the in vitro DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC, FRAP, and phosphomolybdenum (PBA) assays. No metal chelating properties were observed for the extract. The enzyme inhibitory potential of the hexane extract was evaluated on acetyl- and butyrylcholinesterases (for neuroprotective assessment), α-amylase and α-glucosidase (for antihyperglycemic assessment), and tyrosinase (for dermoprotective assessment) revealing promising results on cholinesterases, tyrosinase, and α-glucosidase.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggested that M. oleifera leaves can be considered as a multidirectional ingredient for preparing functional applications.

A Flavonoid Concentrate from Moringa Oleifera Lam. Leaves Extends Exhaustive Swimming Time by Improving Energy Metabolism and Antioxidant Capacity in Mice

Moringa oleifera Lam. leaves contain various nutrients and bioactive compounds. The present study aimed to assess the anti-fatigue capacity of a flavonoids concentrate purified from M. oleifera Lam. leaves. The total flavonoids in the purified extract were analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS). The mice were supplemented with purified M. oleifera Lam. leaf flavonoid-rich extract (MLFE) for 14 days. The weight-loaded forced swimming test was used for evaluating exercise endurance. The 90-min non-weight-bearing swimming test was carried out to assess biochemical biomarkers correlated to fatigue and energy metabolism. UPLC-MS/MS analysis identified 83 flavonoids from MLFE. MLFE significantly increased the swimming time by 60%. Serum lactate (9.9 ± 0.9 vs. 8.9 ± 0.7), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (8.8 ± 0.8 vs. 7.2 ± 0.5), and nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) (2.4 ± 0.2 vs. 1.7 ± 0.3) were significantly elevated; phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), glucokinase (GCK), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) mRNA expression were significantly downregulated; and heme oxygenase 1 mRNA expression was significantly upregulated in muscle after swimming. MLFE supplement significantly decreased serum lactate (8.0 ± 1.0 vs. 9.9 ± 0.9), BUN (8.6 ± 0.4 vs. 8.9 ± 0.8), and NEFA (2.3 ± 0.4 vs. 2.4 ± 0.2) and increased the protein and mRNA expression of GCK, PEPCK, and Nrf2. The enhancement of glucose metabolism and antioxidant function by MLFE contributes partly to its anti-fatigue action.

Photoactive metabolite mediated photodynamic therapy of Rhabdomyosarcoma cell lines using medicinal plants and Doxorubicin co-treatments

BACKGROUND

Medicinal plant-mediated combinational therapies have gained importance globally due to minimal side effects and enhanced treatment outcomes compared to single-drug modalities. We aimed to analyze the cytotoxic potential of each conventional treatment i.e., photodynamic therapy (PDT), chemotherapy (doxorubicin hydrochloride; Dox-HCl) with or without various concentrations of medicinal plant extracts (PE) on soft tissue cancer Rhabdomyosarcoma (RD) cell line.

METHODS

The Rhabdomyosarcoma (RD) cell line was cultured and treated with Photosensitizer (Photosense (AlPc4)), Chemo (Dox-HCl), and their combinations with different concentrations of each plant extract i.e., Thuja occidentalis, Moringa oleifera, Solanum surattense. For the source of illumination, a Diode laser (λ = 630 nm ± 1 nm, Pmax = 1.5 mW) was used. Photosensitizer uptake time (∼ 45 min) was optimized through spectrophotometric measurements (absorption spectroscopy). Drug response of each treatment arm was assessed post 24 h of administration using 3-(4, 5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2, 5- 5-diphenyl-2 H- tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay.

RESULTS

PE-mediated Chemo-Photodynamic therapy (PDT) exhibited synergistic effects (CI < 1). Moreover, Rhabdomyosarcoma culture pretreated with various plant extracts for 24 h exhibited significant inhibition of cell viability however most effective outcomes were shown by low and high doses of Moringa oleifera compared to other plant extracts. Post low doses treated culture with all plant extracts followed by PDT came up with more effectiveness when compared to all di-therapy treatments.

CONCLUSION

The general outcome of this work shows that the ethanolic plant extracts (higher doses) promote the death of cancerous cells in a dose-dependent way and combining Dox-HCl and photo-mediated photodynamic therapy can yield better therapeutic outcomes.

Green synthesis of gold nanoparticles via Moringa oleifera seed extract: antioxidant, antibacterial and anticarcinogenic activity on lung cancer

Plant-mediated biosynthesis of nanoparticles is a green method that allows synthesis in one-pot process. Synthesis of gold nanoparticles with plant extracts has gained interest in the field of biomedicine due to its variety of applications. This study presents the synthesis via green chemistry of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) using the methanol extract of Moringa oleifera seeds. The AuNPs were synthesized at room temperature. UV-Vis spectroscopy confirmed the formation of AuNPs by identifying the surface plasmon resonance located at 546 nm. TEM analysis shows spherical nanoparticles. FTIR analysis demonstrated the presence of specific bioactive molecules responsible for the Au3+ ion reduction process. The antioxidant activity of the nanoparticles was evaluated on the stabilization of the DPPH radical (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, 2,2-diphenyl-1-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl) hydrazyl). The antimicrobial activity analysis was developed by broth microdilution method at different concentrations against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Minimum inhibitory concentration were 400 µg/mL and 200 µg/mL, respectively. A549 lung cancer cell proliferation was measured according to the MTT protocol, indicating a dose-dependent response and a IC50 of 163.9 ± 13.27 µg/mL. The AuNPs synthesized using M. oleifera seeds showed promise as active materials for antimicrobial or anticancer products.

Chronic cypermethrin induced toxicity and molecular fate assessment within common carp (Cyprinus carpio) using multiple biomarkers approach and its novel therapeutic detoxification

Cypermethrin (CYP) is a chemical of emerging concern which has persistent and bioaccumulating impacts as it can be found extensively in freshwater ecosystem and agricultural products. It has exposure risk and toxic effects over human edible fish, as common carp. Four groups were designed for toxicity assessment and detoxification approach: control group (CL), CYP exposure group (CYP), CYP + 10% M. oleifera leaves and 10% M. oleifera seeds (CMO group), 10% M. oleifera leaves and 10% M. oleifera seeds (MO group). Trial period was forty days during which cohort of 240 fish in CYP and CMO group was exposed to 1/5 of 96h LC50 of CYP (0.1612 μg/L). CYP-exposed carp exhibited lower growth parameters, but carp fed with 10% M. oleifera seeds and leaves showed significant improvement in growth rate (SGR, RGR) and weight gain (WG) as compared to the control group. CYP exposure negatively affected haemato-biochemical parameters. Moreover, CYP exposure also led to oxidative stress, damaged immunological parameters, genotoxicity and histopathological damage in liver and intestinal cells. Whereas, M. oleifera supplementation has ameliorated these conditions. Thereby, supplementation with M. oleifera is potential and novel therapeutic detoxication approach for common carp and human health against persistent and bioaccumulating emerging chemicals.

Phyto-Fabrication of Moringa Oleifera Peel-Sourced Silver Nanoparticles: A Promising Approach for Combating Hepatic Cancer by Targeting Proinflammatory Cytokines and Mitigating Cytokine Storms

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) arises from precancerous nodules, leading to liver damage and inflammation, which triggers the release of proinflammatory cytokines. Dysregulation of these cytokines can escalate into a cytokine storm, causing severe organ damage. Interestingly, Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera) fruit peel, previously discarded as waste, contains an abundance of essential biomolecules and high nutritional value. This study focuses on the eco-friendly synthesis of silver nanoparticles infused with M. oleifera peel extract biomolecules and their impact on regulating proinflammatory cytokines, as well as their potential anticancer effects against Wistar rats. The freshly synthesized nanoformulation underwent comprehensive characterization, followed by antihepatic cancer evaluation using a diethyl nitrosamine-induced model (at a dose of 200 mg kg-1 BW). The study demonstrates a significant reduction in proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, interleukin-1β, and nuclear factor kappa beta (NF-κB). Furthermore, it confirms that the newly biosynthesized silver nanoparticles exhibit additional potential against hepatic cancer due to their capped biomolecules.

In Vivo Study of Moringa oleifera Seed Extracts as Potential Sources of Neuroprotection against Rotenone-Induced Neurotoxicity

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a leading neurodegenerative disorder affecting 1-3 percent of the elderly population. Oxidative stress is the primary factor for the neurodegeneration of Substantia Nigra (SN). The current study aims to assess the seed extracts of Moringa oleifera (MO) on rotenone-mediated motor function impairments in a PD mouse model. For this purpose, two different seed extracts of MO were prepared, including aqueous MO (AqMO) and ethanolic MO (EthMO). Male Swiss albino mice were grouped into five groups. Mice received 2.5 mg/kg rotenone for 21 consecutive days, and control mice received the vehicle. Extract-treated mice received 200 mg/kg AqMO and EthMO separately, orally and daily for 28 days. Sinemet-treated mice received 20 mg/kg, oral dose, as a positive group. The motor function performance was evaluated using standard neurobehavioral tests. The antioxidant potentials of MO seed extracts were estimated by lipid peroxidation (LPO), reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione-s-transferase (GST) and catalase (CAT) activities in mice brain homogenates. The PD mice brain SN sections were investigated for neurodegeneration. MO seed extract-treated mice showed a significant reduction in motor dysfunction compared to rotenone-treated mice as assessed through the open field, beam walk, pole climb-down, tail suspension, stride length and stepping tests. Increased antioxidant capacities of the PD mice brains of MO extract-administered groups were observed compared to the control. A histological study showed reduced signs of neurodegeneration, vacuolation around multipolar cells and cytoplasmic shrinkage in MO extract-treated mice SN brain sections. Collectively, MO seed extracts protected the animals from locomotor deficits induced by rotenone, possibly through antioxidant means, and seem to have potential applications in neurodegenerative diseases.

Antibacterial, Anti-Biofilm, and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Gelatin-Chitosan-Moringa-Biopolymer-Based Wound Dressings towards Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli

In contemporary times, the sustained aspiration of bioengineering and biomedical applications is the progressive advancement of materials characterized by biocompatibility and biodegradability. The investigation of the potential applications of polymers as natural and non-hazardous materials has placed significant emphasis on their physicochemical properties. Thus, this study was designed to investigate the potential of gelatin-chitosan-moringa leaf extract (G-CH-M) as a novel biomaterial for biomedical applications. The wound-dressing G-CH-M biopolymer was synthesized and characterized. The blood haemolysis, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities of the biopolymer were investigated against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacterial isolates. Our results showed that S. aureus swarming motility was drastically affected. However, the biopolymer had no significant effect on the swarming motility of E. coli. In addition, the biopolymer showed high antibacterial capacities, especially against S. aureus. Plasmid DNA was observed to be effectively protected from oxidative stresses by the biopolymer. Furthermore, the biopolymer exhibited greatly suppressed haemolysis (lower than 2%), notwithstanding the elevated concentration of 50 mg/mL. These results indicated that this novel biopolymer formulation could be further developed for wound care and contamination prevention.

Reduction of Malnutrition Related to Unsafe Water Consumption in Developing Countries: Potabilization of Surface Water and Traditional Well Water, with Plant Extracts

The consumption of unsafe water in rural areas is a real public health problem in developing countries. This situation mainly affects children under five years of age and causes several deaths and many cases of malnutrition every year. The objective of this study was to evaluate and optimize the capacity of four local plant extracts in the potabilization of unsafe water. Thus, Moringa oleifera and Boscia senegalensis seeds, or Aloe vera and Opuntia ficus-indica mucilages were prepared in a solution and applied during a jar test as biocoagulants and bioflocculants on three raw water samples of 82.3 NTU, 549.8 NTU and 796.9 NTU. After treatment results showed that 0.9 g/L of Moringa biocoagulant or 1 g/L of Boscia biocoagulant applied with 0.4 mL of Aloe vera bioflocculant or 0.6 mL of Opuntia ficus-indica bioflocculant reduced the turbidity of each water sample to values less than 5 NTU after only 15 min of decanting. Moreover, the sanitary quality of the water treated by these different extracts showed a perfect conformity of the physicochemical and microbiological parameters with the standards of acceptability in drinking water decreed by the World Health Organization. Thus, the application of these local plant extracts has made it possible to considerably improve the quality of unsafe water in record time. Their popularization could be an alternative in the fight against malnutrition related to the consumption of unsafe water, especially in rural areas.

A comprehensive review of the phytochemicals, health benefits, pharmacological safety and medicinal prospects of Moringaoleifera

Moringa oleifera has emerged as a subject of increasing interest, drawing attention for its diverse phytochemical composition and potential health benefits. This review delves into Moringa oleifera's phytochemical constituents, including but not limited to flavonoids, alkaloids, and carotenoids. Expanding beyond its chemical intricacies, the spectrum of health advantages attributed to it are explored, encompassing its remarkable anticancer, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and cardioprotective effect. Throughout this review, the underlying physiological mechanisms attributed to these properties by its phytochemicals are explored. Concurrently, the review addresses its pharmacological safety, ensuring a nuanced understanding of its applications in medicinal industries. In summary, this literature review presents a comprehensive exploration of Moringa oleifera, focusing on its phytochemical composition, health benefits, physiological mechanisms, pharmacological safety and nutritional importance.

Leaf Extracts of Moringa oleifera Cultivated in Baghdad: Characterization and Antimicrobial Potential against Endodontic Pathogens

The use of medicinal plant preparations to clean and disinfect root canal infection is gaining popularity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the bioactive composition of leaf extracts of Moringa oleifera plants cultivated in Iraq (specifically Baghdad) and their antimicrobial activity against selected root canal pathogens for potential application in endodontic treatment. Materials and Methods. Moringa leaf extracts were prepared either through cold maceration or warm digestion techniques to perform an ethanolic or aqueous extraction, respectively. Phytochemical detection was performed before thin layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to measure flavonoids and phenolic compounds within both extracts. Then, their antimicrobial activities were investigated against Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, and Candida albicans through minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC), and agar well diffusion assay in comparison to NaOCl and Ca(OH)2. Results. Phytochemical screening showed several active ingredients but with higher expression of flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Also, different types of these compounds were detected through TLC and quantified by HPLC. MIC values for ethanolic extract against Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, and Candida albicans were 60, 65, and 55, respectively, while for aqueous extract, MIC values were 70, 80, and 50, respectively. Aqueous extract showed a higher inhibition zone than ethanolic extract for both Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus faecalis with a statistically significant difference (p ≤ 0.001) for all tested materials except with NaOCl and Ca(OH)2 in Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus faecalis, respectively. The ethanolic extract showed a higher inhibition zone against Candida albicans, with a statistically significant difference (p ≤ 0.001) for all tested materials. Conclusion. Ethanolic and aqueous extracts of Moringa oleifera leaves cultivated in Baghdad contain considerable quantities of phytochemicals, especially flavonoid and phenolic compounds, and demonstrated antimicrobial activities against selected endodontic pathogens. Therefore, Moringa leaf extracts could be suggested as an alternative antimicrobial material in endodontic treatment.

Moringa oleifera Lam. as a potential plant for alleviation of the metabolic syndrome-A narrative review based on in vivo and clinical studies

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) refers to the co-occurrence of risk factors, including hyperglycaemia, increased body weight, hypertension and dyslipidemia, which eventually lead to diabetes and cardiovascular disease, a common health problem worldwide. Recently, there has been an increasing interest in the use of plant-based products for the management of MetS, because of their less detrimental and more beneficial effects. Moringa oleifera (Moringaceae), commonly known as drumstick, is cultivated worldwide for its nutritional and medicinal properties. This review focuses on the in vivo and human studies concerning the potential of M. oleifera in the alleviation of MetS and its comorbidities. The search for relevant articles was carried out in PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Randomised controlled and clinical trials from the PubMed database were included in this review. The results suggested that the administration of M. oleifera, in vivo, shows clear signs of improvement in MetS indices. Despite fewer human studies, the existing data documented convincing results that uphold the potential of M. oleifera against MetS. Therefore, future research discussing the probable mechanism of action is much needed which could further assure the usage of M. oleifera in the treatment regimen of MetS.

Moringa oleifera: a valuable insight into recent advances in medicinal uses and pharmacological activities

Moringa oleifera is an important medicinal plant in several countries; for example, Nigeria, the USA, Turkey, Germany, Greece, and Ukraine. The abundant bioactive and nutritional properties of this plant make it useful in many and diverse areas of life, including the health, cosmetic, agricultural, and food industries to mention but a few. Research has found that the presence of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, phenols, alkaloids, fatty acids, saponins, essential oils, folate, aromatic hydrocarbons, sterols, glucosinolates, and glycosides, among others, characterize the moringa nutrient profile and, as a result, give rise to its remedial effects on ailments such as wounds, stomach and duodenal ulcers, allergies, obesity, diabetes, inflammation, asthma, and so on. It is the aim of this review to provide an insight into such medicinal and pharmacological remedies attributed to moringa, stating both the past and recent discoveries. This review article also takes a look into the botanical features, bioactive compounds, antinutrients, food applications, bacterial fermentation products, biosafety, industrial applications, and other uses of moringa. Finally, with the belief that knowledge is progressive, we acknowledge that there are things yet undiscovered about this wonder plant that will be of value both to medicine and general life; we therefore recommend that research work continues on the moringa plant. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Bio-synthesized ZnO nanoparticles and sunlight-driven photocatalysis for environmentally-friendly and sustainable route of synthetic petroleum refinery wastewater treatment

The design of a green photocatalytic system that harnesses renewable and eco-friendly constituents holds the potential to offer valuable insights into alternative strategies for treating toxic multi-components in refinery water effluents. A significant challenge in implementing a practical and viable approach is the utilization of solar energy-an abundant, natural, and cost-effective resource-for photochemical processes within advanced oxidation processes. In this study, we explored the use of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) as photocatalyst prepared via an environmentally friendly synthesis approach, resulting in the formation of crystalline wurtzite nanoparticles, with an average size of about 14 nm relatively spherical in shape. Notably, the extract derived from Moringa oleifera was employed in this investigation. These nanoparticles were characterized and validated using various characterization techniques, including X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. For comparison, conventionally synthesized ZnO NPs were also included in the evaluations. The findings reveal that, under illumination, biosynthesized ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) exhibit photocatalytic performance in effectively breaking down the organic compounds present in synthetic petroleum wastewater. Photochemical analysis further illustrates the degradation efficiency of Green-ZnO, which, within 180 min of irradiation resulted in 51%, 52%, 88%, and 93% of removal for Phenol, O-Cresol. Under optimal loading conditions, NPs produced via the green synthesis approach perform better when compared to chemically synthesized ZnO. This significant improvement in photocatalytic activity underscores the potential of eco-friendly synthesis methods in achieving enhanced water treatment efficiency.

The Impact of Moringa oleifera Supplementation on Anemia and other Variables during Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: A Narrative Review

Moringa is a plant commonly used for its medical properties. However, studies have shown contradictory results. The aim of this review is to evaluate the possible association between the use of Moringa during pregnancy and breastfeeding in relation to the health status of both the mother and the baby. A search of the PubMed and EMBASE databases on the literature published during the period 2018-2023 was conducted up until March 2023. The population/exposure/comparison/outcome (PECO) approach was used to select studies on pregnant women, mother-child pairs, and the use of Moringa. Out of the 85 studies initially identified, 67 were excluded, leaving 18 for full-text evaluation. After assessment, 12 were finally included in the review. In the articles included in this work, Moringa is administered during pregnancy or in the postnatal period in the form of leaf powder (MOLP), as a leaf extract (MLE), as an ingredient associated with other supplements or in preparations. It appears to influence several variables during pregnancy and in the postnatal period such as the mother's haematochemical profile, milk production, the child's socio-personal development and the incidence of morbidity during the first 6 months of life. None of the studies analysed reported contraindications to the use of the supplement during pregnancy and lactation.

Cerebroprotective effects of Moringa oleifera derivatives extracts against MCAO ischemic stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Moringa oleifera (MO), has been studied extensively, and has numerous medicinal and socioeconomic benefits. Emerging research has investigated the efficacy of MO extract and/or its phytochemical derivatives against ischemic stroke in-vivo. To date, no studies comprehensively reviewing the effects of MO extract and/or its phytochemical derivatives against ischemic stroke have been published. A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to assess the effects of MO extract and/or its phytochemical derivatives against focal ischemic stroke, modeled in-vivo. Compared with control groups, significant reduction in infarct volume and malondialdehyde levels, and signficant increase in antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and catalase. The primary mechanism of action of MO extract and its phytochemical derivatives which confers neuroprotection is reduction in oxidative stress by increasing antioxidant enzymes. On the whole, the present systematic review critically assessed evidence which demonstrated that MO extract may confer protective effect on experimental ischemic stroke. Although effect size may have been overestimated due to the limited number of included studies, small sample sizes and possible publication bias, results generated in this meta-analysis dmeonstrate that MO extract may be a promising neuroprotective agent against human ischemic stroke.

Functional annotation of rhizospheric phageome of the wild plant species Moringa oleifera

Introduction

The study aims to describe phageome of soil rhizosphere of M.oleifera in terms of the genes encoding CAZymes and other KEGG enzymes.

Methods

Genes of the rhizospheric virome of the wild plant species Moringa oleifera were investigated for their ability to encode useful CAZymes and other KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) enzymes and to resist antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the soil.

Results

Abundance of these genes was higher in the rhizospheric microbiome than in the bulk soil. Detected viral families include the plant viral family Potyviridae as well as the tailed bacteriophages of class Caudoviricetes that are mainly associated with bacterial genera Pseudomonas, Streptomyces and Mycobacterium. Viral CAZymes in this soil mainly belong to glycoside hydrolase (GH) families GH43 and GH23. Some of these CAZymes participate in a KEGG pathway with actions included debranching and degradation of hemicellulose. Other actions include biosynthesizing biopolymer of the bacterial cell wall and the layered cell wall structure of peptidoglycan. Other CAZymes promote plant physiological activities such as cell-cell recognition, embryogenesis and programmed cell death (PCD). Enzymes of other pathways help reduce the level of soil H₂O₂ and participate in the biosynthesis of glycine, malate, isoprenoids, as well as isoprene that protects plant from heat stress. Other enzymes act in promoting both the permeability of bacterial peroxisome membrane and carbon fixation in plants. Some enzymes participate in a balanced supply of dNTPs, successful DNA replication and mismatch repair during bacterial cell division. They also catalyze the release of signal peptides from bacterial membrane prolipoproteins. Phages with the most highly abundant antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) transduce species of bacterial genera Pseudomonas, Streptomyces, and Mycobacterium. Abundant mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in the rhizosphere include "antibiotic efflux pump" for ARGs soxR, OleC, and MuxB, "antibiotic target alteration" for parY mutant, and "antibiotic inactivation" for arr-1.

Discussion

These ARGs can act synergistically to inhibit several antibiotics including tetracycline, penam, cephalosporin, rifamycins, aminocoumarin, and oleandomycin. The study highlighted the issue of horizontal transfer of ARGs to clinical isolates and human gut microbiome.

Evaluation of Antidiabetic Effect of Combined Leaf and Seed Extracts of Moringa oleifera (Moringaceae) on Alloxan-Induced Diabetes in Mice: A Biochemical and Histological Study

Moringa oleifera (Moringaceae) is a medicinal plant rich in biologically active compounds. The aim of the present study was to screen M. oleifera methanolic leaf (L) extract, seed (S) extract, and a combined leaf/seed extract (2L : 1S ratio) for antidiabetic and antioxidant activities in mice following administration at a dose level of 500 mg/kg of body weight/day. Diabetes was induced by alloxan administration. Mice were treated with the extracts for 1 and 3 months and compared with the appropriate control. At the end of the study period, the mice were euthanized and pancreas, liver, kidney, and blood samples were collected for the analysis of biochemical parameters and histopathology. The oral administration of the combined L/S extract significantly reduced fasting blood glucose to normal levels compared with L or S extracts individually; moreover, a significant decrease in cholesterol, triglycerides, creatinine, liver enzymes, and oxidant markers was observed, with a concomitant increase in antioxidant biomarkers. Thus, the combined extract has stronger antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant properties than the individual extracts. The histopathological results also support the biochemical parameters, showing recovery of the pancreas, liver, and kidney tissue. The effects of the combined L/S extracts persisted throughout the study period tested. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report on the antidiabetic, antioxidant, and antihyperlipidemic effects of a combined L/S extract of M. oleifera in an alloxan-induced diabetic model in mice. Our results suggest the potential for developing a natural potent antidiabetic drug from M. oleifera; however, clinical studies are required.

Moringa oleifera as a Natural Alternative for the Control of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Equines: A Review

Studies have shown a wide variety of parasites that infect horses, causing major gastrointestinal damage that can lead to death, and although the main method of control has been synthetic anthelmintics, there are parasites that have developed resistance to these drugs. For generations, plants have been used throughout the world as a cure or treatment for countless diseases and their symptoms, as is the case of Moringa oleifera, a plant native to the western region. In all its organs, mainly in leaves, M. oleifera presents a diversity of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acids, saponins, and vitamins, which provide antioxidant power to the plant. The compounds with the greatest antiparasitic activity are tannins and saponins, and they affect both the larvae and the oocytes of various equine gastrointestinal parasites. Therefore, M. oleifera is a promising source for the natural control of gastrointestinal parasites in horses.

Wound Dressings Based on Sodium Alginate-Polyvinyl Alcohol-Moringa oleifera Extracts

Biopolymers have significant pharmaceutical applications, and their blending has favorable characteristics for their pharmaceutical properties compared to the sole components. In this work, sodium alginate (SA) as a marine biopolymer was blended with poly(vinyl) alcohol (PVA) to form SA/PVA scaffolds through the freeze-thawing technique. Additionally, polyphenolic compounds in Moringa oleifera leaves were extracted by different solvents, and it was found that extracts with 80% methanol had the highest antioxidant activity. Different concentrations (0.0-2.5%) of this extract were successfully immobilized in SA/PVA scaffolds during preparation. The characterization of the scaffolds was carried out via FT-IR, XRD, TG, and SEM. The pure and Moringa oleifera extract immobilized SA/PVA scaffolds (MOE/SA/PVA) showed high biocompatibility with human fibroblasts. Further, they showed excellent in vitro and in vivo wound healing capacity, with the best effect noted for the scaffold with high extract content (2.5%).

Use of Moringa oleifera leaves (sole or combined with concentrate) in rabbit feeding: Effects on performance, carcass characteristics and meat quality attributes

Sixty Chinchilla rabbits (28 days old) were divided into three equal groups (n = 20). Rabbits in MOL0 (control) were fed pellets containing 700 g cowpea hay/kg pellet as forage source, whereas rabbits in MOL700 and MOL950 were fed pellets containing 700 and 950 g moringa leaves/kg feed pellets, respectively. Average daily gain and feed conversion ratio was comparable in MOL700 and MOL0, however, it was higher in MOL950. Among the carcass traits, dressing percent was higher while, chilling loss was lower in MOL700 treatment. The Longissimus thoracis muscle of rabbits fed moringa leaves containing pellets (MOL700 and MOL950) had lower saturated fatty acid content, higher C18:3n-3 and total n-3 fatty acids along with lower thrombogenic index value. Hence, incorporating moringa leaves at 70% level is beneficial in terms of improved growth performance and functional attributes of meat than diet- containing sole moringa leaves.

Spiroleiferthione A and Oleiferthione A: Two Unusual Isothiocyanate-Derived Thioketone Alkaloids from Moringa oleifera Lam. Seeds

Spiroleiferthione A (1), with a 2-thiohydantoin a heterocyclic spiro skeleton, and oleiferthione A (2), an imidazole-2-thione derivative, were isolated from the aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera Lam. seeds. The unprecedented structures of 1 and 2 were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic data, X-ray diffraction, and gauge-independent atomic orbital (GIAO) NMR calculation, as well as electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculation. The structures of 1 and 2 were determined to be (5R,7R,8S)-8-hydroxy-3-(4′-hydroxybenzyl)-7-methyl-2-thioxo-6-oxa-1, 3-diazaspiro [4.4] nonan-4-one, and 1-(4′-hydroxybenzyl)-4,5-dimethyl-1,3-dihydro-2H-imidazole-2-thione, respectively. Biosynthetic pathways for 1 and 2 have been proposed. Compounds 1 and 2 are considered to have originated from isothiocyanate and then undergone a series of oxidation and cyclization reactions to form 1 and 2. Compounds 1 and 2 demonstrated weak inhibition rates of NO production, 42.81 ± 1.56% and 33.53 ± 2.34%, respectively, at a concentration of 50 μM. Additionally, Spiroleiferthione A demonstrated moderate inhibitory activity against high glucose-induced human renal mesangial cell proliferation in a dosage-dependent manner. A wider range of biological activities, and the diabetic nephropathy protective activity of Compound 1 in vivo and its mechanism of action, need further investigation after the sufficient enrichment of Compound 1 or total synthesis.

Analysis of functional ingredients of tempe-like fermented Moringa oleifera seeds (Moringa tempe) prepared with Rhizopus species

Tempe is a fermented food prepared by fermenting soybeans with Rhizopus species. However, there have recently been concerns about the stable supply of raw soybeans due to global warming and other factors. Moringa is a plant whose cultivation area is expected to expand in the future, and its seeds contain abundant proteins and lipids, and thus could be used as an alternative to soybeans. To develop a novel functional Moringa food, we fermented dehulled Moringa seeds with Rhizopus oligosporus and Rhizopus stolonifer using the solid fermentation method of tempe and investigated changes in the functional components, such as free amino acids and polyphenols, of the respective obtained Moringa tempe Rm and Rs. After 45 h of fermentation, the total content of free amino acids, mainly including gamma-aminobutyric acid and l-glutamic acid, in Moringa tempe Rm was about three times higher, while that in Moringa tempe Rs was almost the same, compared to that in unfermented Moringa seeds. Moreover, after 70 h of fermentation, both Moringa tempe Rm and Rs had approximately four times higher polyphenol content and significantly higher antioxidant activity than did unfermented Moringa seeds. Further, the content of each residual chitin-binding protein of defatted Moringa tempe Rm and Rs was almost the same as that of unfermented Moringa seeds. Taken together, Moringa tempe was rich in free amino acids and polyphenols, exhibited better antioxidant activity, and retained the levels of its chitin-binding proteins, suggesting that Moringa seeds could be used as an alternative to soybean for tempe preparation.

Multifunctional Profiling of Moringa oleifera Leaf Extracts for Topical Application: A Comparative Study of Different Collection Time

This research investigated plant extracts as a source of potential new actives in the nutritional, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical fields. Moringa oleifera, which is extensively known for its nutritional properties, has been investigated in this work by preparation, characterization, and evaluation of the antioxidant (FRAP, DPPH, ORAC, and PCL test), antifungal, photoprotective, and cytotoxicity profile against human melanoma Colo38 cell line of two different extracts (hydroalcoholic and methanolic) and one infusion of dry leaves collected from Paraguay in four distinct harvest times (February, March, April, and May 2017). The outcomes of this study highlight Moringa oleifera as a potential ally to counteract skin aging and oxidative stress, as indicated by the favorable antioxidant profile of the extracts and infusions of Paraguay, which was, in all cases, superior to that provided by the same plant species when collected from Senegal. Moreover, some samples were more efficient in preventing the photodegradation of UVA filter butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane (Avobenzone) compared to commercial filters, thus suggesting an interesting future role as natural additives in sunscreens.

Effects of Dehydrated Moringa (Moringa oleifera) Leaf Powder Supplementation on Physicochemical, Antioxidant, Mineral, and Sensory Properties of Whole Wheat Flour Leavened Bread

Moringa (Moringa oleifera) has excellent nutritional significance as well as medicinal and therapeutic benefits, such as antidiabetic, anticancer, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities. Whole wheat flour (WWF) is associated with a reduced risk of cancer (colon cancer), constipation, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and type 2 diabetes. In this regard, the objective of the study is to determine the chemical composition, nutritional value, and antioxidant activity of moringa leaves and their MLP containing snack food (bread) to make a strong recommendation for their consumption in a balanced diet. The present study was aimed at assessing the effects of dehydrated moringa leaf powder (MLP) supplementation at 0–10% MLP levels on proximate, antioxidant, mineral, and sensory quality attributes of WWF leavened bread. Further, these quality attributes for MLP and WWF were also analyzed individually. As compared to WWF, MLP exhibited significantly higher ( $p<0.05$ ) antioxidant activities, such as DPPH activity (10.38 ± 0.25 μmol TE/g DW), FRAP activity (21.43 ± 0.08 μmol TE/g DW), and total phenolic content (2.33 ± 0.04 mg GAE/100 g DW). MLP-supplemented bread exhibited significantly improved proximate, antioxidant, and mineral profile. It was evident from the proximate and sensory analysis that there was significant improvement in the nutritional composition of MLP-supplemented leavened bread; however, the overall acceptability scores of WWF leavened bread showed gradually decreasing tendency with corresponding rises in the addition levels of MLP. Based on results, it was implied that maximum acceptability was exhibited by the sample T2 supplemented at MLP addition level of 5%. Moreover, the nutritional, mineral profile, and antioxidant profile of the supplemented bread were significantly improved owing to MLP addition, and it may be implied that MLP could be exploited for improving the nutritional status of people in underdeveloped and developing countries.

Effects of Drying Temperature and Solvents on In Vitro Diabetic Wound Healing Potential of Moringa oleifera Leaf Extracts

The delayed healing of wounds among people with diabetes is a severe problem worldwide. Hyperglycemia and increased levels of free radicals are the major inhibiting factors of wound healing in diabetic patients. Plant extracts are a rich source of polyphenols, allowing them to be an effective agent for wound healing. Drying temperature and extraction solvent highly affect the stability of polyphenols in plant materials. However, there is a need to optimize the extraction protocol to ensure the efficacy of the final product. For this purpose, the effects of drying temperature and solvents on the polyphenolic composition and diabetic wound healing activity of Moringa oleifera leaves were examined in the present research. Fresh leaves were oven dried at different temperatures (10 °C, 30 °C, 50 °C, and 100 °C) and extracted in three solvents (acetone, ethanol, and methanol) to obtain twelve extracts in total. The extracts were assessed for free radical scavenging and antihyperglycemic effects using DPPH (2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl) and α- glucosidase inhibition assays. Alongside this, a scratch assay was performed to evaluate the cell migration activity of M. oleifera on the human retinal pigment epithelial cell line. The cytotoxicity of the plant extracts was assessed on human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) and hepatocellular carcinoma (Huh-7) cell lines. Using high-performance liquid chromatography, phenolic compounds in extracts of M. oleifera were identified. We found that an ethanol-based extract prepared by drying the leaves at 10 °C contained the highest amounts of identified polyphenols. Moringa oleifera extracts showed remarkable antioxidant, antidiabetic, and cell migration properties. The best results were obtained with leaves dried at 10 °C and 30 °C. Decreased activities were observed with drying temperatures of 50 °C and above. Moreover, M. oleifera extracts exhibited no toxicity on RPE cells, and the same extracts were cytotoxic for Huh-7 cells. This study revealed that M. oleifera leaves extracts can enhance wound healing in diabetic conditions due to their antihyperglycemic, antioxidant, and cell migration effects. The leaves of this plant can be an excellent therapeutic option when extracted at optimum conditions.

An insight into the neuroprotective and anti-neuroinflammatory effects and mechanisms of Moringa oleifera

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) are sporadic maladies that affect patients' lives with progressive neurological disabilities and reduced quality of life. Neuroinflammation and oxidative reaction are among the pivotal factors for neurodegenerative conditions, contributing to the progression of NDs, such as Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), multiple sclerosis (MS) and Huntington's disease (HD). Management of NDs is still less than optimum due to its wide range of causative factors and influences, such as lifestyle, genetic variants, and environmental aspects. The neuroprotective and anti-neuroinflammatory activities of Moringa oleifera have been documented in numerous studies due to its richness of phytochemicals with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This review highlights up-to-date research findings on the anti-neuroinflammatory and neuroprotective effects of M. oleifera, including mechanisms against NDs. The information was gathered from databases, which include Scopus, Science Direct, Ovid-MEDLINE, Springer, and Elsevier. Neuroprotective effects of M. oleifera were mainly assessed by using the crude extracts in vitro and in vivo experiments. Isolated compounds from M. oleifera such as moringin, astragalin, and isoquercitrin, and identified compounds of M. oleifera such as phenolic acids and flavonoids (chlorogenic acid, gallic acid, ferulic acid, caffeic acid, kaempferol, quercetin, myricetin, (-)-epicatechin, and isoquercitrin) have been reported to have neuropharmacological activities. Therefore, these compounds may potentially contribute to the neuroprotective and anti-neuroinflammatory effects. More in-depth studies using in vivo animal models of neurological-related disorders and extensive preclinical investigations, such as pharmacokinetics, toxicity, and bioavailability studies are necessary before clinical trials can be carried out to develop M. oleifera constituents into neuroprotective agents.

Biostimulant Formulations and Moringa oleifera Extracts to Improve Yield, Quality, and Storability of Hydroponic Lettuce

The urgent need to increase the sustainability of crop production has pushed the agricultural sector towards the use of biostimulants based on natural products. The current work aimed to determine whether the preharvest application of two commercial formulations, based on a Fabaceae enzymatic hydrolysate or a blend of nitrogen sources including fulvic acids, and two lab-made aqueous extracts from Moringa oleifera leaves (MLEs), could improve yield, quality, and storability of lettuce grown in a hydroponic system, as compared to an untreated control. Lettuce plants treated with the MLEs showed significantly improved quality parameters (leaf number, area, and color), total phenolic content and antioxidant activity, and resistance against the fungal pathogen Botrytis cinerea, comparable to that obtained with commercial formulates, particularly those based on the protein hydrolysate. A difference between the M. oleifera extracts was observed, probably due to the different compositions. Although further large-scale trials are needed, the tested MLEs seem a promising safe and effective preharvest means to improve lettuce agronomic and quality parameters and decrease susceptibility to rots.

Effect of leaves and seeds of Achyranthes aspera as feed supplements on the immunological and stress parameters and related gene expressions of Asian catfish (Clarias batrachus)

The immunostimularory properties of Achyranthes aspera leaves and seeds supplemented feeds were evaluated in Asian catfish, Clarias batrachus (0.352±0.008 g). The experimental feeds contained 0.25% leaves (EFL1), 0.5% leaves (EFL2), 0.5% seeds (EFS) and 0% leaves or seeds (control feed; CF). In CF, leaves and seeds were absent. Fish were immunized with chicken-RBC after 60 days of feeding. The blood and tissue samples were collected on 7th, 14th and 21st days after immunization for various assays. The average weight of magur was significantly higher in EFS compared to the other treatments throughout the study period and EFL2 followed this group. Serum lysozyme level of fish was significantly higher in EFS on 7th and 14th days and in EFS and EFL2 on 21st day after immunization compared to the other treatments. Myeloperoxidase and nitric oxide synthase levels were always significantly higher in EFS diet fed fish compared to other treatments. The highest hemagglutination titer level was found in EFS throughout the study period. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and carbonyl protein levels were significantly lower in liver and kidney of enriched diets fed magur compared to CF treatment. TBARS and carbonyl protein levels were minimum in EFS diets fed fish. In EFS and EFL2 treatments, the expressions of TNF-α, iNOS and NF-kB were significantly higher compared to the CF group. A. aspera seeds and leaves showed significant immunostimulatory properties in Asian catfish fry.

Phytochemical analysis and evaluation of antibacterial activity of Moringa oleifera extracts against gram-negative bacteria: an in vitro and molecular docking studies

Moringa oleifera seed and leaf are used traditionally for the treatment of various health problems (among others, hypertension, scrapes, skin infection, diabetes, genitourinary illnesses), and to boost the immune system, as well as to act as a contraceptive. In this study, the antibacterial activity of seed and leaf M. oleifera extracts on three-gram negative bacteria was investigated, and phytochemical analysis for the association of antibacterial activity with the active constituents in the plant was determined. Moreover, understanding of the mechanism of action was achieved by applying the Auto Dock Vina technique. The phytochemical screening of M. oleifera seed and leaf extracts exhibited the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, cardioactive glycosides, flavonoids, tannins, phenols, steroids and terpenoids. In silico results revealed that compounds (4-O-caffeoyl quinic acid, 4-(α-L-rhamnopyranosyloxyl)-benzylisothiocyanate); (Isoquercitrin, 4-(α-L-rhamnopyranosyloxy) benzyl glucosinolate); and (Astragalin, 4-(α-L-rhamnopyranosyloxy) benzyl glucosinolate) from leaf and seed have the highest binding affinity and very good interactions with Transcriptional Activator Protein (LasR), Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC), and Malonyl-CoA-acyl carrier protein transacylase (FabD), respectively.

Phytochemical and antioxidant screening of Moringa oleifera for its utilization in the management of hepatic injury

Introduction

Phytochemicals present in Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera) leaves have performed several physiological functions in human system such as anticarcinogenic, antidiabetic, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective and antiatherogenic functions.

Methods

Phytochemical and antioxidant potential of M. oleifera leaves extracts were measured. Histopathology, biochemical analysis, and gene expression tests were performed on serum, blood, and liver in animal model.

Results and discussions

The toxic dose of N-acetyl-para-aminophenol (APAP) induced severe structural and functional changes in liver. Pre-treatment with M. oleifera ameliorated organ injury by normalizing the level of liver biomarkers and serum proteins. A low expression level of MAPK-8, TRAF-4, and TRAF-6 genes was observed in the M. oleifera treated group in comparison to positive control (hepatotoxic rats). M. oleifera leaves pretreatment amended APAP induced apoptosis and replenished hepatic cells. M. oleifera leaves extract as low-cost and sustainable treatment could be used in pharmaceutical industry for reducing hepatic degenerative changes in non-communicable diseases.

Moringa oleifera seed ethanol extract and its active component kaempferol potentiate pentobarbital-induced sleeping behaviours in mice via a GABAergic mechanism

CONTEXT

Moringa oleifera Lam. (Moringaceae) (MO) is an important food plant that has high nutritional and medical value. However, there is limited information on whether its seeds can improve sleep.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the effects of MO seed ethanol extracts (EEMOS) on sleep activity improvement and examined the underlying mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male ICR mice were placed into six groups (n = 12) and treated as follows: Control (sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, 20 mL/kg), estazolam tablets (2 mg/kg), EEMOS (1, 2 g/kg) and kaempferol (1, 2 mg/kg). These samples were successively given intragastric for 14 d. Locomotor activity assay, pentobarbital-induced sleeping and pentetrazol-induced seizures tests were utilized to examine the sedative-hypnotic effects (SHE) of EEMOS.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, the results revealed that EEMOS (2 g/kg) and KA (2 mg/kg) possessed good SHE and could significantly elevate the levels of γ-aminobutyric acid and reduce the levels of glutamic acid in the mouse hypothalamus (p < 0.05). Moreover, SHE was blocked by picrotoxin, flumazenil and bicuculline (p < 0.05). EEMOS (2 g/kg) and KA (2 mg/kg) significantly upregulated the protein expression levels of glutamic acid decarboxylase-65 (GAD₆₅) and α₁-subunit of GABA_A receptors in the hypothalamus of mice (p < 0.05), not affecting glutamic acid decarboxylase-67 (GAD₆₇) and γ₂-subunit expression levels (p > 0.05). Additionally, they cause a significant increase in Cl^- influx in human cerebellar granule cells at a concentration of 8 µg/mL (p  <  0.05).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

These findings demonstrated that EEMOS could improve sleep by regulating GABA_A-ergic systems, and encourage further clinical trials to treat insomnia.

Neuroprotective potential of Moringa oleifera mediated by NF-kB/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway: A review

Moringa oleifera is a traditional Indian herb belonging to the Moringaceae family, it is commonly known as the horse-radish tree, drumstick, or sahajna. In developing countries, Moringa is used as feed for both humans and animals due to its well-known antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties owing to its several phytoconstituents including β-carotene, quercetin, kaempferol, ascorbic acid, flavonoids, phenolic acid, rhamnose, glycosylates, glucomoringin, and isothiocyanates. These constituents help to maintain the brain antioxidant enzyme levels, mitochondrial functions, and neurogenesis, showing neuroprotective effects in several neurodegenerative disorders including Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, Huntington's Disease, and Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. This review discusses various phytoconstituent of moringa and their therapeutic potential in various neurological disorders. Additionally, we also concise the safety and toxicity profile, of different molecular pathways involved in the neuroprotective effect of M. oleifera including M. oleifera nanoparticles for better therapeutic value. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Several clinical and preclinical studies on Moringa oleifera have been conducted, and the outcomes indicate moringa could be used in the treatment of brain disorders. As a result, we conclude that moringa and its nanoformulations could be employed to treat neurological problems. In the future, M. oleifera phytoconstituents could be evaluated against specific signaling pathways, which could aid researchers in discovering their mechanism of action. Furthermore, the use of moringa as a nutraceutical owing to its myriad pharmacological potential will go a long way in boosting the economy of countries that grow moringa on a large scale.

Pyrrole-2-carbaldehydes with neuroprotective activities from Moringa oleifera seeds

Seven undescribed pyrrole-2-carbaldehydes (pyrrolemorines A-G), along with four known analogs, were isolated from the aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera seeds. The structures were elucidated by comprehensive spectroscopic and chemical analyses using HRMS and NMR spectra, acid hydrolysis, and Rh2(OCOCF3)4-induced ECD experiments. Pyrrolemorines A, E, and pyrrolemarumine displayed neuroprotective activities against oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion injury in PC12 cells by regulating NF-κb and Nrf2.

Profiling of Nutritionally Vital Bioactive Compounds in Emerging Green Leafy Vegetables: A Comparative Study

Green leafy vegetables (GLVs), especially lettuce and spinach, are the key source of bioactive antioxidants in a diet. This research compared the contents and composition of lettuce and spinach bioactive compounds with emerging GLVs, moringa and fenugreek. Liquid chromatography (LC)-mass spectrometry (MS) with single ion monitoring (SIM) was used to examine carotenoids and tocols, while phytosterols were examined using gas chromatography (GC)-MS. Among the studied GLVs, the (all-E)-lutein was the most dominating carotenoid ranging between 31.3 (green/red lettuce)−45.3 % (fenugreek) of total carotenoids, followed by (all-E)-violaxanthin and (all-E)-β-carotene. Surprisingly, (all-E)-β-carotene, a provitamin A carotenoid, was the second most dominating carotenoid in moringa, accounting for 109.2 µg/g fresh weight (FW). Moreover, the significantly highest (p < 0.05; Tukey HSD) contents of total carotenoids (473.3 µg/g FW), α-tocopherol (83.7 µg/g FW), and total phytosterols (206.4 µg/g FW) were recorded in moringa. Therefore, moringa foliage may serve as an affordable source of nutritionally vital constituents in a diet.

A Comprehensive Review of Moringa oleifera Bioactive Compounds-Cytotoxicity Evaluation and Their Encapsulation

Moringa oleifera Lam. has gained a lot of attention due to its potential use as a functional food not only for human health but also for animal health. Its bioactive molecules include carbohydrates, phenolic compounds, carotenoids, fatty acids, essential amino acids, and functional peptides. Despite significant efforts to isolate and characterize bioactive metabolites with health functions, few effective metabolites are accessible. The current review aims to describe the main processes for extracting and encapsulating bioactive compounds from Moringa oleifera for potential impact on food science and public health. Researchers have shown that different extraction techniques significantly impact the Moringa polysaccharides' molecular structure and biological activity. Encapsulation has been proposed to reduce oxidative stability and entrap active agents within a carrier material to deliver bioactive molecules into foods. Currently, polysaccharides and proteins, followed by lipids, are used for material encapsulation. Recent techniques include spray drying, cross-linking gelation, freeze-drying, nanoencapsulation, electrospinning, and electrospraying. Moreover, these encapsulations can overlap concerns regarding the Moringa oleifera compounds' cytotoxicity. Future studies should prioritize the effect of new encapsulation materials on Moringa extract and develop new techniques that consider both encapsulation cost and efficiency.

LC-TOF-MS/MS and GC-MS based phytochemical profiling and evaluation of wound healing activity of Oroxylum Indicum (L.) Kurz (Beka)

Background: Beka (Oroxylum indicum (L.) Kurz) has been used as a culinary herb and natural remedy by the local communities in Malaysia. The leaf of O. indicum is traditionally used for the treatment of diarrhea, high blood pressure, and improving digestive health. Objectives: The present study was conducted to evaluate the phytochemical constituents and wound healing properties (in vitro and in vivo models) of aqueous and ethanol extracts of O. indicum leaves. Methods: The total phenolic (TPC) and total flavonoid (TFC) contents in the plant extracts were determined by the spectrophotometric methods. Further, the extract was characterized by Liquid Chromatography Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (LC-TOF-MS/MS) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The wound healing activity was assessed using the in vitro scratch wound-healing assay and in vivo excisional wound model. Results: The results show the ethanol leaves extract had the higher TPC (164 mg GAE/g) when compared with the aqueous leaves extract (30 mg gallic acid equivalents/g). The ethanol leaves extract was also found to have higher TFC (101 mg Catechin equivalents/g) than the aqueous leaves extract (76 mg Catechin equivalents/g). The ethanol leaves extract was then used for further chemical analysis. The LC-TOF-MS/MS analysis showed that the leaves extracts of O. indicum contains many important compounds such as Orientin, Chrysin, Pinoquercetin, Cupressuflavone, Puerarin xyloside, Forsythiaside and Paederoside. In GC-MS analysis, 19 compounds were identified in ethanolic leaves extract. The wound healing studies shows that O. indicum has promising wound healing activity by increasing the rate of wound contraction significantly (p < 0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, the present study showed that O. indicum leaf contains important phytochemicals and the wound healing potential of the O. indicum extract may probably be as a result of the presence of various phytoconstituents.

Exogenous miRNAs from Moringa oleifera Lam. recover a dysregulated lipid metabolism

A balanced diet is critical for human health, and edible plants play an important role in providing essential micronutrients as well as specific microRNAs (miRNAs) that can regulate human gene expression. Here we present the effects of Moringa oleifera (MO) miRNAs (mol-miRs) on lipid metabolism. Through in silico studies we identified the potential genes involved in lipid metabolism targeted by mol-miRs. To this end, we tested the efficacy of an aqueous extract of MO seeds (MOES), as suggested in traditional African ethnomedicine, or its purified miRNAs. The biological properties of MO preparations were investigated using a human derived hepatoma cell line (HepG2) as a model. MOES treatment decreased intracellular lipid accumulation and induced apoptosis in HepG2. In the same cell line, transfection with mol-miRs showed similar effects to MOES. Moreover, the effect of the mol-miR pool was investigated in a pre-obese mouse model, in which treatment with mol-miRs was able to prevent dysregulation of lipid metabolism.

The Potential of Moringa oleifera to Ameliorate HAART-Induced Pathophysiological Complications

Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) comprises a combination of two or three antiretroviral (ARV) drugs that are administered together in a single tablet. These drugs target different steps within the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) life cycle, providing either a synergistic or additive antiviral effect; this enhances the efficiency in which viral replication is suppressed. HIV cannot be completely eliminated, making HAART a lifetime treatment. With long-term HAART usage, an increasing number of patients experience a broadening array of complications, and this significantly affects their quality of life, despite cautious use. The mechanism through which ARV drugs induce toxicity is associated with metabolic complications such as mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and inflammation. To address this, it is necessary to improve ARV drug formulation without compromising its efficacy; alternatively, safe supplementary medicine may be a suitable solution. The medicinal plant Moringa oleifera (MO) is considered one of the most important sources of novel nutritionally and pharmacologically active compounds that have been shown to prevent and treat various diseases. MO leaves are rich in polyphenols, vitamins, minerals, and tannins; studies have confirmed the therapeutic properties of MO. MO leaves provide powerful antioxidants, scavenge free radicals, promote carbohydrate metabolism, and repair DNA. MO also induces anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, anti-proliferative, and anti-mutagenic effects. Therefore, MO can be a source of affordable and safe supplement therapy for HAART-induced toxicity. This review highlights the potential of MO leaves to protect against HAART-induced toxicity in HIV patients.

A Review on the Antidiabetic Properties of Moringa oleifera Extracts: Focusing on Oxidative Stress and Inflammation as Main Therapeutic Targets

Moringa oleifera is one of the popular plants that have shown significant health benefits. Certainly, preclinical evidence (predominantly from animal models) summarized in the current review supports the beneficial effects of Moringa oleifera leaf extracts in combating the prominent characteristic features of diabetes mellitus. This includes effective control of blood glucose or insulin levels, enhancement of insulin tissue sensitivity, improvement of blood lipid profiles, and protecting against organ damage under sustained conditions of hyperglycemia. Interestingly, as major complications implicated in the progression of diabetes, including organ damage, Moringa oleifera leaf and seed extracts could efficiently block the detrimental effects of oxidative stress and inflammation in these preclinical models. Notably, these extracts (especially leaf extracts) showed enhanced effects in strengthening intracellular antioxidant defences like catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione to lower lipid peroxidation products and reduce prominent pro-inflammatory markers such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (1L)-β, IL-6, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and nitric oxide synthase. From animal models of diabetes, the common and effective dose of leaf extracts of Moringa oleifera was 100-300 mg/kg, within the treatment duration of 2-8 weeks. Whereas supplementation with approximately 20 g leaf powder of Moringa oleifera for at least 2 weeks could improve postprandial blood glucose in subjects with prediabetes or diabetes. Although limited clinical studies have been conducted on the antidiabetic properties of Moringa oleifera, current findings provide an important platform for future research directed at developing this plant as a functional food to manage diabetic complications.

Moringa oleifera Leaf Powder Dietary Inclusion Differentially Modulates the Antioxidant, Inflammatory, and Histopathological Responses of Normal and Aeromonas hydrophila-Infected Mono-Sex Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

This study aimed to detect the impact of Moringa oleifera leaf powder dietary inclusion on the antioxidant and innate immune responses of mono-sex Nile tilapia fingerlings. A total of 180 fingerlings were allocated in a random method into three groups with triplicate each. One group (1^st group) received the control diet (basal diet (BD) free of moringa) and the other groups (2^nd and 3^rd) fed BD containing M. oleifera leaf powder at 5 and 10% of the diet, respectively. After 6 weeks of feeding, fish were randomly redistributed into four replicates and rested for 24 h. Then, each fish in the first two replicates was injected with 0.2 mL of PBS, while the others were injected with 0.2 mL of A. hydrophila suspension (1.8 × 10⁶ CFU/mL). Healthy fish fed on M. oleifera leaf powder showed enhanced immune response manifested by significant increases in phagocytic and lysozyme activities with a marked H/L ratio (P < 0.05). In addition, significant alterations of the lymphocytic and heterophilic population in circulation with increasing infiltration in tissue such as the spleen were noticed. Also, M. oleifera significantly upregulated the antioxidants, CAT and GPx, proinflammatory cytokines, IL1-β, IL-8, and IFN-γ relative mRNA levels. On the other hand, following A. hydrophila challenging conditions, M. oleifera caused downregulations of IL1-β, IL-8, and IFN-γ transcription levels, and also lowered the CAT and GPx mRNA levels. In addition, a marked reduction of leukocytic infiltration plus a significant improvement of the degenerative changes in intestinal architecture has occurred. So, M. oleifera leaf powder can be included in the fish diet to enhance immune response under normal health conditions and lower the infection-associated inflammatory response.

Moringa oleifera: Miracle Plant with a Plethora of Medicinal, Therapeutic, and Economic Importance

Moringa oleifera Lam. (Moringaceae) is one of the most essential medicinal plants primarily found in the rainforest area and forest ecosystem, but is now well-adapted in an organized cultivation system. Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera) is well-known as Drumstick tree, Moringa kai, color, Marengo, Moringe, mulangay, Sahjan, and Sajna, which are its native names commonly used. It has nourishing, beneficial, and preventive effects when taken as food and has an extensive scope of high restorative properties with huge dietary benefits. Different parts of the M. oleifera plants, such as leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds, and roots, contain a significant amount of protein, ß-carotene, amino acids, important minerals, and various phenolic compounds. Because of its multifarious health benefits for its therapeutic value, it is considered an essential plant. The plant is found to be blessed with several medicinal characteristics such as antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, antipyretic, antiepileptic, antispasmodic, diuretic, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, cholesterol-level down, cell reinforcement, and hepatoprotective. Moreover, it is used traditionally in the local curative system against cardiac problems, and the antifungal properties are efficiently utilized for the treatment of a wide range of ailments. The present review article was designed to explore the nutritional and economic benefits, medicinal and therapeutic applications, and the future biomedical prospects of Moringa with a view towards human wellbeing.

Moringa oleifera Seeds Characterization and Potential Uses as Food

Despite the fact Moringa oleifera (MO)-based foods present a very good and nutritionally well-balanced composition, they face some issues related to seed bitterness, which is the most challenging barrier to consumer acceptance. Different processing methods were tested to produce MO toasted seeds, MO-based beverage, and yoghurt-like products which were chemically and rheologically analyzed. The protein content ranged from 3.68% in the beverage, to 14.73% in the yoghurt and 40.21% in MO toasted seeds. A totally debittered beverage could not be accomplished, but the MO yoghurt-like showed a very nice flavor. Nutrition claims for minerals in toasted seeds could be considered for magnesium, phosphorus, iron, copper, zinc, and manganese, which confirms the M. oleifera seed richness in several minerals. The MO beverage presented less extended shear-thinning behavior (17.4 Pa·s) than commercial vegetable beverages and two pulse-based beverages developed in a previous study. The MO yoghurt-like product showed a gel structure similar to the dairy yoghurt, making it a promising new plant-based alternative. Further work must be performed in the future to debitter more efficiently the raw seeds to achieve a more pleasant MO-based beverage. The developed MO seed-based products may settle another font of high protein plant-based food.

Ethnopharmacological Study of Medicinal Plants Used for the Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases and Their Associated Risk Factors in sub-Saharan Africa

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of global mortality, including deaths arising from non-communicable diseases in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Consequently, this study aimed to provide details of medicinal plants (MPs) employed in SSA for the treatment of CVDs and their related risk factors to open new avenues for the discovery of novel drugs. The extensive ethnopharmacological literature survey of these MPs in 41 SSA countries was based on studies from 1982 to 2021. It revealed 1,085 MPs belonging to 218 botanical families, with Fabaceae (9.61%), Asteraceae (6.77%), Apocynaceae (3.93%), Lamiaceae (3.75%), and Rubiaceae (3.66%) being the most represented. Meanwhile, Allium sativum L., Persea americana Mill., Moringa oleifera Lam., Mangifera indica L., and Allium cepa L. are the five most utilised plant species. The preferred plant parts include the leaves (36%), roots (21%), barks (14%), fruits (7%), and seeds (5%), which are mostly prepared by decoction. Benin, Mauritius, Nigeria, South Africa, and Togo had the highest reported use while most of the investigations were on diabetes and hypertension. Despite the nutraceutical advantages of some of these MPs, their general toxicity potential calls for caution in their human long-term use. Overall, the study established the need for governments of SSA countries to validate the efficacy/safety of these MPs as well as provide affordable, accessible, and improved modern healthcare services.