Immunostimulant activity of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis L

Immunomodulating Phytochemicals: An Insight Into Their Potential Use in Cytokine Storm Situations

Phytochemicals are compounds found in plants that possess a variety of bioactive properties, including antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. Recent studies have highlighted the potential of phytochemicals in targeting specific signalling pathways involved in cytokine storm, a life-threatening clinical condition resulting from excessive immune cell activation and oversupply of proinflammatory cytokines. Several studies have documented the immunomodulatory effects of phytochemicals on immune function, including their ability to regulate essential cellular and molecular interactions of immune system cells. This makes them a promising alternative for cytokine storm management, especially when combined with existing chemotherapies. Furthermore, phytochemicals have been found to target multiple signalling pathways, including the TNF-α/NF-κB, IL-1/NF-κB, IFN-γ/JAK/STAT, and IL-6/JAK-STAT. These pathways play critical roles in the development and progression of cytokine storm, and targeting them with phytochemicals represents a promising strategy for controlling cytokine release and the subsequent inflammation. Studies have also investigated certain families of plant-related constituents and their potential immunomodulatory actions. In vivo and in vitro studies have reported the immunomodulatory effects of phytochemicals, which provide viable alternatives in the management of cytokine storm syndrome. The collective data from previous studies suggest that phytochemicals represent a potentially functional source of cytokine storm treatment and promote further exploration of these compounds as immunomodulatory agents for suppressing specific signalling cascade responses. Overall, the previous research findings support the use of phytochemicals as a complementary approach in managing cytokine storm and improving patient outcomes.

In-vivo Immunomodulatory Activities of Essential Oils of Artemisia abyssinica and Lepidium sativum in Mice

Background

Ethiopians use Artemisia abyssinica and Lepidium sativum as immunity enhancers. However, there is no scientific validation conducted so far regarding this claim. The aim of this study was to investigate the in-vivo immunomodulatory activities of essential oils of A. abyssinica and L. sativum in mice.

Methods

The extraction was carried out using the earlier techniques. By hydro distilling fresh seeds and aerial portions of A. abyssinica and L. sativum, respectively, essential oils were obtained. Essential oils of both plants were tested at 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg. The rate of carbon clearance, humoral antibody titer, delayed type hypersensitivity response, spleen and thymus indices were evaluated in mice according to scientific protocols. The carbon clearance assay was determined using carbon ink. Sheep red blood cell was used as an antigen for other tests.

Results

Essential oils of A. abyssinica and L. sativum at 400 mg/kg significantly increased the rate of carbon clearance from the body of mice (p<0.05). The maximum carbon clearance rate was achieved for A. byssinica essential oil at 400 mg/kg. Both essential oils raised the level of HAT to SRBC in comparison to the vehicle and cyclophosphamide administered groups. The largest (84.668±1.951) mean secondary HAT to SRBC was generated by L. sativum essential oil at 400 mg/kg (p<0.001). A. abyssinica essential oil at 200 and 400 mg/kg significantly increased the level of thymus index compared to the model group (p<0.05 and 0.01 respectively). The levamisole group experienced the highest increase in thymus index (p<0.001). Essential oil of L. sativum at 400 mg/kg also increased the level of thymus index. The spleen index in mice was improved by the essential oils only at the highest dose levels (400 mg/kg).

Conclusion

It can be inferred that the essential oils of L. sativum and A. abyssinica have immunostimulant properties.

Phytochemical Screening of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Plant Extracts and Their Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activity Analysis

Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, alias "Vishnu Parijat," is a medicinal plant used to treat various inflammation-associated ailments and to combat innumerable infections in the traditional system of medicine. In the present study, we collected the samples of N. arbor-tristis from the lower Himalayan region of Uttarakhand, India, and carried out their molecular identification through DNA barcoding. To examine the antioxidant and antibacterial activities, we prepared the ethanolic and aqueous extracts (from flowers and leaves) and performed their phytochemical analysis by using different qualitative and quantitative approaches. The phytoextracts showed marked antioxidant potential, as revealed by a comprehensive set of assays. The ethanolic leaf extract showed marked antioxidant potential towards DPPH, ABTS, and NO scavenging (IC50 = 30.75 ± 0.006, 30.83 ± 0.002, and 51.23 ± 0.009 μg/mL, respectively). We used TLC-bioautography assay to characterize different antioxidant constituents (based on their Rf values) in the chromatograms ran under different mobile phases. For one of the prominent antioxidant spots in TLC bioautography, GC-MS analysis identified cis-9-hexadecenal and n-hexadecanoic acid as the major constituents. Furthermore, in antibacterial study, the ethanolic leaf extract showed marked activity against Aeromonas salmonicida (113.40 mg/mL of extract was equivalent to 100 μg/mL of kanamycin). In contrast, the ethanolic flower extract showed considerable antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (125.85 mg/mL of extract ≡100 μg/mL of kanamycin). This study presents the phylogenetic account and unravels the antioxidant-related properties and antibacterial potential of N. arbor-tristis.

A review of immune modulators and immunotherapy in infectious diseases

The human immune system responds to harmful foreign invaders frequently encountered by the body and employs defense mechanisms to counteract such assaults. Various exogenous and endogenous factors play a prominent role in maintaining the balanced functioning of the immune system, which can result in immune suppression or immune stimulation. With the advent of different immune-modulatory agents, immune responses can be modulated or regulated to control infections and other health effects. Literature provides evidence on various immunomodulators from different sources and their role in modulating immune responses. Due to the limited efficacy of current drugs and the rise in drug resistance, there is a growing need for new therapies for infectious diseases. In this review, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of different immune-modulating agents and immune therapies specifically focused on viral infectious diseases.

Immunomodulatory Role of Diospyros peregrina Fruit Preparation in Breast Cancer by Utilizing Macrophage Mediated Antigen Presentation and T Helper Cell (Th) Differentiation

BACKGROUND

Diospyros peregrina is dioecious plant native to India and belonging to the family of Ebenaceae, is largely utilized in treatment of various ailments. Little has been known about the antitumor activity of Diospyros peregrina with only 1 previous study on Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma in mice. Therefore, it prompted us to extensively explore the immunomodulatory effect in various cancer forms. The focal point of this study revolves around breast cancer, which is the second most common cancer in the world. In view of the increasing demands for noninvasive treatments, natural plant-based agents open up promising applications in cancer immunotherapy METHODS: CD4⁺ lymphocytes were isolated from the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of breast cancer patients and normal donor blood samples using magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) and cultured separately. Utilizing the plastic surface adherence property, the macrophages were isolated from CD4 negative lymphocytes of both breast cancer patients and normal donors. For the presentation of tumor antigens invitro, macrophages were pulsed with breast tumor associated antigen (BTAA) in presence or absence of Diospyros peregrina fruit preparation (DFP). Differentially pulsed and irradiated macrophages were co-cultured with autologous and allogenic lymphocytes. Supernatants hence collected from CD4⁺ lymphocytes were utilized for cytokine profiling using ELISA and proliferation was assessed by MTT assay. Cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) generated from CD4 negative lymphocytes culture (2 × 10⁵) was incubated with MCF-7 (2 × 10⁴) to check cytotoxicity using LDH release assay. CD4⁺ lymphocytes were treated in presence or absence of DFP, were analyzed using immunoblotting and RT-qPCR, to check DFP mediated T helper (Th) cell differentiation through investigation of signatory cytokines and transcription factors.

RESULTS

It was found that DFP elevated the proliferation of CD4⁺ T lymphocytes (Th) in response to BTAA. DFP also helped in presenting BTAA pulsed macrophages directing in the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte mediated immune response. Results indicated that DFP preferentially highlighted Th1 commitment with type-1 specific cytokines IFN-g and IL-12 and was indifferent in Th2 manifestation. DFP was not only involved in the upregulation of Tbet mounted type-1 mediated immune response and activation of STAT1 but also it downregulated STAT6 and GATA3, the functional activators and regulators of type-2 immune response. Moreover, it was observed that DFP inhibited the tumor-promoting environment modulated through Tregs by downregulating Foxp3 and STAT5. Further, it was detected that DFP directs Th1 bias and results in attainment of better suppression of breast tumor CONCLUSION: The results collectively pointed out that DFP favored cell-mediated immune response from BTAA antigen presentation on macrophages and also helping in the robust proliferation of an entire spectrum of T helper lymphocytes which furthermore strengthen the underlying immune responses, hence, fencing the body, of the progression of breast cancer.

In-vivo evaluation of immunomodulatory activity of crude extract and solvent fractions of Cyphostemma adenocaule (Steud. ex A.Rich)

Background

Various indigenous medicinal systems including Ethiopians used Cyphostemma adenocaule for managing tumors, helminthiasis, snake envenomation, rabis virus, splenomegaly, and other immunological disorders. However, no scientific study was conducted to validate these traditional medicinal claims of the plant. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the in-vivo immunomodulatory activity of the crude root extract and its solvent fractions.

Methods

Carbon clearance rate and humoral antibody titer were determined for 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg of crude extract and solvent fractions among Swiss albino mice. Carbon ink and sheep red blood cells were used as antigens for carbon clearance assay and humoral antibody titer respectively.

Results

Among all groups, an increase in both carbon clearance rate and the humoral antibody titer was observed with an increase in the dose of both crude extract and solvent fractions. Compared to the solvent fractions of comparable doses, the crude extract showed better activity. The crude extract at a dose of 400 mg/kg revealed the highest and statistically significant augmentation of carbon clearance rate (0.1100 ± 0.0124) and humoral antibody titer (96.00 ± 14.31) compared to the vehicle control group.

Conclusion

From our study, it is concluded that crude extract and n-butanol fraction showed promising immunostimulant activity by enhancing carbon clearance rate and humoral antibody titer.

Absolute configuration and antileishmanial activity of (-)-cyclocolorenone isolated from Duguetia lanceolata (Annonaceae)

BACKGROUND

The fractionation of the n-hexane phase of the EtOH extract from the leaves of Duguetia lanceolata (Annonaceae) led to the identification of the sesquiterpene (-)- cyclocolorenone.

OBJECTIVE

Chemical characterization, including determination of the absolute stereochemistry, and in vitro evaluation of antileishmanial activity of the sesquiterpene (-)-cyclocolorenone, isolated from D. lanceolata were carried out.

METHODS

(-)-Cyclocolorenone was isolated from D. lanceolata leaves using different chromatographic steps and its structure was defined by analysis of NMR and ESI-HRMS data. Additionally, the absolute configuration of (-)-cyclocolorenone was ambiguously assigned by means of vibrational circular dichroism (VCD). Antileishmanial activity of (-)-cyclocolorenone was evaluated on promastigote and amastigote forms of Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis. The integrity of the cell membrane of L. (L.) amazonensis was analyzed using the SYTOX green probe.

RESULTS

(-)-(1R,6S,7R,10R)-Cyclocolorenone displayed activity against promastigotes and amastigotes forms of L. (L.) amazonensis with IC50 of 4.54 and 28.44 , respectively. Furthermore, this compound was non-toxic in J774 macrophage cells (CC50 > 458.71 ) with a selectivity index > 100 (promastigotes) and > 32.2 (amastigotes). Additionally, (-)-cyclocolorenone was observed to target the parasite cell membrane.

CONCLUSION

Obtained data suggested that (-)-cyclocolorenone, in which absolute configuration was determined, can be considered as a scaffold for the development of new drugs for the treatment of leishmaniasis.

Immunomodulatory efficacy of methanolic extract of Ajuga macrosperma in cyclophosphamide induced immunocompromised rat

The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate immunomodulatory potential of Ajuga macrosperma against cyclophoshphamide (CP) induced immunosupression in rats. The immunological parameters such as haemaglutation (HA) titre and serum immunoglobulin (Ig) for humoral immunity (HI); lymphocyte stimulation test (LST), phagocytic index test, neutrophil adhesion test (NAT) and delayed type hypersensitivity reaction (DTH) for cellular immunity(CMI) were determined. The cyclophoshphamide treatment significantly suppressed both HI and CMI responses, which were significantly improved following treatment with 100 ppm and 200 ppm of methanolic extract of Ajuga macrosperma (MEAM) in dose dependent manner. The decreases in HI and CMI related parameters by CP treatment revealed immunosuppresion, whereas simultaneous treatment with MEAM ameliorated immune response which indicated immunomodulatory properties of Ajuga macrosperma.

A Brief Overview of Potential Treatments for Viral Diseases Using Natural Plant Compounds: The Case of SARS-Cov

The COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the more general global increase in viral diseases, has led researchers to look to the plant kingdom as a potential source for antiviral compounds. Since ancient times, herbal medicines have been extensively applied in the treatment and prevention of various infectious diseases in different traditional systems. The purpose of this review is to highlight the potential antiviral activity of plant compounds as effective and reliable agents against viral infections, especially by viruses from the coronavirus group. Various antiviral mechanisms shown by crude plant extracts and plant-derived bioactive compounds are discussed. The understanding of the action mechanisms of complex plant extract and isolated plant-derived compounds will help pave the way towards the combat of this life-threatening disease. Further, molecular docking studies, in silico analyses of extracted compounds, and future prospects are included. The in vitro production of antiviral chemical compounds from plants using molecular pharming is also considered. Notably, hairy root cultures represent a promising and sustainable way to obtain a range of biologically active compounds that may be applied in the development of novel antiviral agents.

Protective effect of myricetin, apigenin, and hesperidin pretreatments on cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression

Aim: Major side effects of cyclophosphamide administration are immunosuppression and myelosuppression. The immunomodulatory effects of plant bioactive compounds on chemotherapy drug-induced immunosuppression may have significant effects in cancer treatment. For this reason, we investigated the immunomodulatory effect of myricetin, apigenin, and hesperidin in cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression in rats.Methods: In our study, a total of 64 rats were used, and divided into eight equal groups. These groups were: control, cyclophosphamide, cyclophosphamide + myricetin (100 mg/kg), cyclophosphamide + myricetin (200 mg/kg), cyclophosphamide + apigenin (100 mg/kg), cyclophosphamide + apigenin (200 mg/kg), cyclophosphamide + hesperidin (100 mg/kg), and cyclophosphamide + hesperidin (200 mg/kg). Myricetin, apigenin, and hesperidin pretreatments were performed for 14 d, while cyclophosphamide application (200 mg/kg) was performed only on the 4th day of the study. Levels of humoral antibody production, quantitative hemolysis, macrophage phagocytosis, splenic lymphocyte proliferation, and natural killer cell cytotoxicity were determined. In addition, we measured pro-inflammatory cytokines, and followed lipid peroxidation and antioxidant markers and examined the histology of bone marrow, liver and spleen in all groups.Results: During cyclophosphamide treatment, all three phytochemicals increased the levels of humoral antibody production, quantitative hemolysis, macrophage phagocytosis, splenic lymphocyte proliferation, antioxidant markers, and natural killer cell cytotoxicity. Moreover, the agents decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators, reduced lipid peroxidation markers, and reduced tissue damage in liver, spleen, and bone marrow.Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that myricetin, apigenin, and hesperidin can reduce the immunosuppressive effect of cyclophosphamide by enhancing both innate and adaptive immune responses, and these compounds may be useful immunomodulatory agents during cancer chemotherapy.

Colonization and immunoregulation of Lactobacillus plantarum BF_15, a novel probiotic strain from the feces of breast-fed infants

Immunosuppression is a manifestation imbalance in the immune system, often during unhealthy states. In recent years, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have been found to be important components of the body's innate immune system, and indispensable to maintaining normal immune function. Lactobacillus plantarum BF_15, a novel strain isolated from the feces of breast-fed infants, which has shown potential as an immunomodulator in vitro. In the present study, with the Polymerase Chain Reaction-Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE) based on RNA-polymerase beta subunit encoding gene (rpoB) to analyze the colonization of L. plantarum BF_15 in the intestine of mice. In addition, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) as a positive control strain, by measuring immune-related indexes and the diversity of intestinal microbiota, the effects of BF_15 on immunoregulation and intestinal microbiota dysbiosis were investigated to elucidate whether the attenuation of immunosuppression is related to the modulation of intestinal microbiota. Results did indeed support this notion that BF_15 did colonize murine intestines well, in which it could still be detected in mice feces 14 days after stopping the probiotic administration. Moreover, BF_15 found to protect mice against reduction in the levels of several immune-related indicators, including the thymus and spleen indexes, splenic lymphocyte proliferation, toe swelling degree, serum hemolysin-antibody level, and macrophage phagocytosis index, triggered by high-dose (200 mg kg-1) intraperitoneal administration of cyclophosphamide (CTX). In addition, the strain was also found to effectively balance intestinal microbiota dysbiosis in the mice. Collectively, these results indicated that L. plantarum BF_15 can not only successfully colonize murine intestines, but also can effectively alleviate CTX-induced immunosuppression, once established, by rebalancing the intestinal microbiota. This, therefore, provides strong evidence for the view that BF_15 has the potential to become a highly effective immunomodulating probiotic in human microbiota as well.

Novel Coupled Molecules from Active Structural Motifs of Synthetic and Natural Origin as Immunosuppressants

INTRODUCTION

Nitric oxide (NO) is an important mediator in the pathogenesis and control of immune system-related disorders and its levels are modulated by inducible NO synthase (iNOS). Oxidative stress is another pathological indication in majority of autoimmune disorders. The present study aims at the development of coupled molecules via selection of pharmacophores for both immunomodulatory and antioxidant activities through iNOS inhibition.

METHODS

Variedly substituted coumarin moieties are coupled with naturally occurring phenols through an amide linkage and were predicted for activities using computer-based program PASS. The compounds predicted to have dual activities were synthesized. Docking studies were carried out against iNOS (PDB 1R35) and compounds having good docking score were evaluated for immunomodulatory and antioxidant activities.

RESULTS

The synthesized compounds were found to be pure and were obtained in good yields. Compounds with maximum docking score (YR1a, YR2e, YR2c and YR4e) were selected for evaluation by in vitro models. Compounds YR2e and YR2c markedly inhibited the reduction of NBT dye and showed maximum % iNOS inhibition. In DPPH assay, compound YR4e was observed as the most potent antioxidant (EC50 0.33 µM/mL). Based on these studies, compounds YR2e and YR2c were selected for haemagglutination test. Compound YR2e was observed as the most active immunosuppressant with maximal inhibitory ability of iNOS and NBT reduction and lower HAT value of 3.5.

CONCLUSION

Compound YR2e can be utilized as a pharmacological agent in the prevention or treatment of immunomodulatory diseases such as tumors, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, organ transplant and other autoimmune disorders.

Use of medicinal plants for headache, and their potential implication in medication-overuse headache: Evidence from a population-based study in Nepal

Background

In Nepal, traditional treatment using medicinal plants is popular. Whereas medication-overuse headache is, by definition, caused by excessive use of acute headache medication, we hypothesized that medicinal plants, being pharmacologically active, were as likely a cause.

Methods

We used data from a cross-sectional, nationwide population-based study, which enquired into headache and use of medicinal plants and allopathic medications. We searched the literature for pharmacodynamic actions of the medicinal plants.

Results

Of 2100 participants, 1794 (85.4%) reported headache in the preceding year; 161 (7.7%) reported headache on ≥15 days/month, of whom 28 (17.4%) had used medicinal plants and 117 (72.7%) allopathic medication(s). Of 46 with probable medication-overuse headache, 87.0% (40/46) were using allopathic medication(s) and 13.0% (6/46) medicinal plants, a ratio of 6.7:1, higher than the overall ratio among those with headache of 4.9:1 (912/185). Of 60 plant species identified, 49 were pharmacodynamically active on the central nervous system, with various effects of likely relevance in medication-overuse headache causation.

Conclusions

MPs are potentially a cause of medication-overuse headache, and not to be seen as innocent in this regard. Numbers presumptively affected in Nepal are low but not negligible. This pioneering project provides a starting point for further research to provide needed guidance on use of medicinal plants for headache.

Herbal Therapy for the Management of Seborrheic Dermatitis: A Narrative Review

INTRODUCTION

Dandruff and Seborrheic Dermatitis (SD) are similar skin conditions with different degrees ofseverity. Since the current therapies cannot remove dandruff efficiently, herbal extracts with better effectiveness and fewer side effects are used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Due to the adverse effects of chemical drugs, the use of natural products and traditional medicine has significantly increased over the past few decades. Therefore, in this review, we reported the herbs used as anti-dandruff agents in traditional medicine worldwide.

METHODS

The review was conducted on the literature available on the medicinal utility of certain plants as anti-dandruff agents using PubMed and Google Scholar and the following search terms: Dandruff and plants or medicinal plant and dandruff treatment, and essential oil and dandruff.

RESULTS

Since the current therapies cannotefficiently remove dandruff, herbal extracts with better effectiveness and fewer side effects are used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Nowadays, there are numerous different types of herbal antidandruff shampoos. They are effective and safe without the side effects of chemical agents. Recently, herbal medicine has attracted a great deal of scientific attention. Clinical evidence on the therapeutic effects of herbal products has resulted in the study of far more herbs for their therapeutic roles.

CONCLUSION

Herbal therapy plays a significant role in the development of favorable therapeutics, either alone or in combination with conventional antibiotics. However, the major challenges in this regard include finding compounds with satisfactorily lower MICs, low toxicity, and high bioavailability for effective and safe use in humans and animals.

Effects of Artemisia annua alcohol extract on physiological and innate immunity of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) to improve health status

Plants are a potential source of active molecules and are environmentally safer and cheaper than synthetic antibiotics. Bioactive compounds of Artemisia annua have shown pharmacological activities and are used globally as a supplement. The present study tested whether dietary supplementation with alcohol extract of the plant A. annua (ae-Aa; patent BR10201902707) improves the health status of juvenile Nile tilapia and increases resistance to diseases when fish are challenged with the bacteria Aeromonas hydrophila. The experimental design was completely randomized with four experimental groups (0.0, 0.1, 0.25, and 0.5% ae-Aa in the diets) with five repetitions (12 fish per repetition/experimental unit). We assessed serum glucose and cortisol levels in plasma, leukocyte respiratory activity, total plasma protein, serum lysozyme levels, as well as the number of circulating red blood cells and fish leukocytes at the end of the 30 days of feeding (phase I) and 24h after exposure to bacteria (phase II). The levels of lipid peroxidation, catalase activity and glutathione S-transferase of fish were also analyzed. The supplementation of 0.5% of ae-Aa was sufficient to increase the respiratory burst of leukocyte and lysozyme activity, total plasma protein, blood thrombocytes, neutrophils and monocytes after bacterial challenge (P < 0.05), and minimized stress response with decreases in plasmatic glucose and cortisol, and reduction in lipid peroxidation levels (P < 0.05). Results of the present study suggest that ae-Aa as a dietary supplement has benefits, including supplementation with 0.5% A. annua extract for 30 days to minimize the stress response and modulate innate immunity in Nile tilapia, providing fish with greater resistance and disease protection.

Isolation and characterization of an iridoid, Arbortristoside-C from Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn., a potential drug candidate for diabetes targeting α-glucosidase

Many parts of the plant Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn. are widely investigated for their biological properties. Purified Arbortristosides from seeds are reported as anticancer, anti-leishmania, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, immunomodulatory and antiviral. The present study elaborates on the isolation, structural and functional characterization of Arbortristoside-C and its inhibition properties against alpha-glucosidase, an important target for diabetes mellitus. Arbortristoside-C is purified from seeds of N. arbor-tristis by extraction using polar fractionation and chromatographic techniques. Arbortristoside-C has been characterized using Ultra Violet (UV), Mass (MS), Infra-Red (IR) and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). Inhibition kinetics and Isothermal Titration Calorimetry (ITC) were used for activity and binding characteristics of acarbose and Arbortristoside-C using in-house purified α-glucosidase from Bos taurus. Modeling, docking and structural comparison with acarbose bound structure revealing the similar binding characteristics of Arbortristoside-C which include interaction with catalytic acid/base Aspartic acid residue. Cytotoxicity assay revealed that 100 µg/ml is the maximum toxic-free concentration of Arbortristoside-C. The purified Arbortristoside-C showed inhibition against mammalian α-glucosidase, suggesting its potential to treat Diabetes mellitus.

Recent researches in effective antileishmanial herbal compounds: narrative review

Leishmaniasis are neglected diseases and a public health problem; they are caused by protozoan species belonging to the genus Leishmania and mostly influences the poor populations in many developing countries. The lack of effective medications, and an approved vaccine, high toxicity and life-threatening side effects and many cases of drug resistance reported in different countries have resulted in the necessity to discover new, efficient, inexpensive, and safe antileishmanial compounds with less or no toxicity. This increase in consumer demand of natural herbal-derived plant extracts as alternative medicines continues despite the low scientific information to establish their efficacy and safety profiles. Various studies have been conducted so far concerning the application of herbal medicines for the treatment of leishmaniasis, but research on relatively effective and low toxic substances is still needed. In this review, we have summarized recent developments and reported studies concerning about herbal and naturally derived therapeutics in the treatment of leishmaniasis, conducted by several researchers worldwide. Some of these medical herbs with promising results have undergone prospective clinical researches, but many others have either not yet been explored. Recent articles described these medical herbs and their active and important molecules, including quinones, phenolic derivatives, lignans, tannins, terpenes, and oxylipins. We searched ISI Web of Science, PubMed, SID, Scholar, Scopus, and Science Direct, and articles published up to 2019 were included. The keywords of leishmaniasis and some words associated with herbal medicines and natural products were used in our search. This review can serve as a quick reference database for researchers.

Poly herbal formulation with anti-elastase and anti-oxidant properties for skin anti-aging

Background

Skin forms an important part of human innate immune system. Wrinkles, thinning and roughening of skin are some of the symptoms that affect the skin as it ages. Reactive oxygen species induced oxidative stress plays a major role in skin aging by modulating the elastase enzyme level in the skin. Extrinsic factors that affect skin aging such as UV radiation can also cause malignant melanoma. Here we selected four medicinal plant materials, namely, leaves of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, unripe and ripe Aegle marmelos fruit pulp and the terminal meristem of Musa paradisiaca flower and investigated their anti-aging properties and cytotoxicity in vitro individually as well as in a poly herbal formulation containing the four plant extracts in different ratios.

Methods

The phytochemical contents of the plant extracts were investigated for radical scavenging activity and total reducing power. Based upon its anti-oxidant properties, a poly herbal formulation containing leaves of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, unripe and ripe fruit pulp of Aegle marmelos, and the terminal meristem of Musa paradisiaca flower in the ratio 6:2:1:1 (Poly Herbal Formulation 1) and 1:1:1:1 (Poly Herbal Formulation 2), respectively were formulated.

Result

It has been observed that the Poly Herbal Formulation 1 was more potent than Poly Herbal Formulation 2 due to better anti-oxidant and anti-elastase activities in NIH3T3 fibroblast cells. In addition Poly Herbal formulation 1 also had better anti-cancer activity in human malignant melanoma cells.

Conclusion

Based on these results these beneficial plant extracts were identified for its potential application as an anti-aging agent in skin creams as well as an anti-proliferation compound against cancer cells.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12906-018-2097-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Role of inflammasome regulation on immune modulators

Inflammatory responses are essential in eliminating harmful substrates from damaged tissue and inducing recovery. Several cytokines participate in and facilitate this response. Certain cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 are initially produced in precursor form in response to toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands and undergo maturation by inflammasomes, which are cytosolic multi-protein complexes containing nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-containing protein 2-like receptors (NLRs). Immune modulators targeting inflammasomes have been investigated to control inflammatory diseases such as metabolic syndrome. However, most immune modulators possessing anti-inflammasome properties attenuate production of other cytokines, which are essential for host defense. In this review, we analyzed the effect of anti-inflammasome agents on the production of cytokines which are not regulated by inflammasome and involving in initial immune responses. As a result, the inflammasome inhibitors are put into three categories: non-effector, stimulator, or inhibitor of cytokine production. Even the stimulator of cytokine production ameliorated symptoms resulting from inflammasome activation in mouse models. Thus, we suggest ideal immune modulators targeting inflammasomes in order to enhance cytokine production while inhibiting cytokine maturation.

In vivo immunoprotective role of Indigofera tinctoria and Scoparia dulcis aqueous extracts against chronic noise stress induced immune abnormalities in Wistar albino rats

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Chronic noise stress was suppressed both innate and adaptive immune response of wistar albino rats.

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Noise stress also caused DNA damage in the liver and spleen tissues.

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Aqueous extracts of I. tinctoria and S. dulcis prevent the immune abnormalities caused by noise stress.

Indigofera tinctoria and Scoparia dulcis are being widely used in Indian folk medicine for the treatment of various disorders. Environmental noise pollution is thought to be an important factor for many health problems and it causes immune abnormalities. In the present study immune-regulating potential of I. tinctoria and S. dulcis aqueous extracts on innate and adaptive immune system of wistar albino rats was evaluated during normal and chronic noise induced stress conditions. The results demonstrated that both I. tinctoria and S. dulcis aqueous extracts (200 mg/kg b.w) showed immunostimulant effect on both innate and adaptive immune response of wistar albino rat compared to control group under normal condition. The noise stress (100 dB for 1 h, 20 days) induced animals showed suppressive effects on immune response by decreasing macrophage phagocytosis, antibody secretion by spleen cells, humoral immune response, proliferation of lymphocytes, cytotoxicity, TNF α expression, granzyme B and perforin expression in splenic NK cells. Similarly, noise stress also caused DNA damage in tissues. However, the suppressed effects induced by noise stress on rat immune system were significantly prevented by oral administration of both I. tinctoria and S. dulcis aqueous extracts. Considering all these results it is suggested that the selected medicinal plant’s aqueous extracts have the potential to prevent the effects of noise stress induced rat immune system and explore a strong immunostimulant potential applicable to clinical practices.

Immunomodulatory activity of aqueous extract of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis flowers with particular reference to splenocytes proliferation and cytokines induction

Objectives:

To investigate the immunomodulatory activity of aqueous extract of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis flowers (NAFE) with particular reference to splenocytes proliferation and induction of cytokines.

Materials and Methods:

Antibody titer was determined by tube agglutination and indirect ELISA assay in four groups of mice-control, antigen alone, and NAFE-treated (400 and 800 mg/kg for 21 days) after immunization with Salmonella antigen while cellular immunity was studied in three groups of rats (control and NAFE-treated - 400 and 800 mg/kg) following DNCB application. Splenocytes from untreated and NAFE-treated rats were stimulated using concanavalin-A (Con-A) and optical density (OD) and stimulation index were determined. Splenocytes from control rats were also treated in vitro with NAFE (50–1600 μg/ml) and Con-A to determine the effect on splenocytes proliferation. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) and IL-6 levels in splenocytes supernatant from control and NAFE-treated rats and following in vitro treatment of splenocytes with NAFE (50–1600 μg/ml) were determined using ELISA kits.

Results:

Marked to a significant increase in antibody titer by both the methods in NAFE-treated mice and a significant increase in skin thickness in rats after challenge with DNCB, respectively suggested humoral and cell-mediated immunostimulant potential of NAFE. Significant increase in OD and stimulation index following e x vivo and in vitro exposure of splenocytes and sensitization with Con-A and significant elevation in IL-2 and IL-6 levels in splenocytes supernantant was also observed after their ex vivo and in vitro exposure to NAFE.

Conclusion:

Humoral and cell-mediated immunostimulant activity of NAFE seems to be mediated through splenocytes proliferation and increased production of cytokines, especially IL-2 and IL-6.

Effect of Scoparia dulcis on noise stress induced adaptive immunity and cytokine response in immunized Wistar rats

Background

Noise acts as a stressor and is reported to have impact on individual health depending on nature, type, intensity and perception. Modern medicine has no effective drugs or cure to prevent its consequences. Being an environmental stressor noise cannot be avoided; instead minimizing its exposure or consuming anti-stressor and adaptogens from plants can be considered.

Objectives

The present study was carried out to evaluate the anti-stressor, adaptogen and immunostimulatory activity of Scoparia dulcis against noise-induced stress in Wistar rat models.

Material and methods

Noise stress in rats was created by broadband white noise generator, 100 dB A/4 h daily/15 days and S. dulcis (200 mg/kg b.w.) was administered orally. 8 groups of rats were used consisting of 6 animals each; 4 groups for unimmunized and 4 groups for immunized. For immunization, sheep red blood cells (5 × 10⁹ cells/ml) were injected intraperitoneally.

Results

Sub-acute noise exposed rats showed a significant increase in corticosterone and IL-4 levels in both immunized and unimmunized rats whereas lymphocytes, antibody titration, soluble immune complex, IL-4 showed a marked increase with a significant decrease in IL-2, TNF-α, IFN-γ cytokines only in unimmunized rats. Immunized noise exposed rats presented increased leukocyte migration index and decreased foot pad thickness, IL-2, TNF-α, IFN-γ with no changes in the lymphocytes.

Conclusion

S. dulcis (SD) has normalized and prevented the noise induced changes in cell-mediated and humoral immunity and it could be the presence of anti-stressor and immuno stimulant activity of the plant.

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Noise being an environmental stressor, it cannot be avoided. Hence this study reveals the immunotoxic effects of noise.

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We examine the changes in the adaptive immunity after immunization with sheep RBCs along with noise exposure.

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TH1 and TH2 cytokine profiles were examined in the spleen as well as serum to determine the alteration in immune pathways.

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To examine the effect of Scoparia dulcis as an anti stressor (adaptogen) and immunomodulatory property.

Standardized extract of Tinospora crispa stimulates innate and adaptive immune responses in Balb/c mice

Standardized extract of Tinospora crispa has been shown to exhibit immunostimulatory effects on innate immune responses in Wistar-Kyoto rats by enhancing neutrophil and T cell-mediated immunity. In this study the immunostimulatory effects of T. crispa were further investigated on the cellular immune response by determining its effect on nitric oxide (NO) production ability, peritoneal macrophage phagocytosis and delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH), whereas the humoral immune response was evaluated through the measurement of serum immunoglobulins (IgG and IgM) and serum lysozyme levels. Male Balb/c mice were immunized with 200 μL of 5 × 10(9) sheep red blood cells (sRBCs) per mL on day 0 and orally administered with 50, 100 and 200 mg per kg of ethanol extract of T. crispa for 14 days. Syringin and magnoflorine were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed in the extract as chemical markers by using a validated reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography method. T. crispa extract (TCE) considerably improved the peritoneal macrophages' ability to engulf FITC-labeled E. coli in a dose-dependent manner. TCE also dose-dependently promoted NO production in peritoneal macrophages activated by a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and markedly potentiated the sRBS-induced swelling rate of the mice paw in DTH. The extract significantly enhanced the level of serum immunoglobulins, showing maximum activity at 100 mg kg(-1). Compared to the control groups, the serum lysozyme level and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity were significantly higher in extract-treated groups. These findings suggest that T. crispa possesses strong immunostimulatory activities and might act as a natural immunomodulator as well as a potential nutraceutical for the modulation of the immune response.

Antiparasitic and disease-modifying activity of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn. in malaria: An exploratory clinical study

BACKGROUND

An unceasing threat of drug resistance continuously poses demand for new antimalarial drugs. A scientific assessment of traditionally used antimalarial plants through reverse pharmacology is crucial for a fast track drug discovery. An Ayurvedic plant Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn. - (Parijat) is being used in clinical practice and had shown antimalarial activity, with a parasite clearance in 76.6% of 120 patients, in an earlier clinical study.

OBJECTIVE

To further explore antimalarial potential of the plant through additional objective markers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An open-labelled observational study was conducted at M.A. Podar Hospital - Ayurveda (MAPH-A) after ethics committee approval. Administration of a paste of 5 fresh leaves, thrice a day for a week was a standard practice for management of malaria at MAPH-A. Clinical activity of N. arbor-tristis was evaluated by monitoring pyrexia, parasitemia and morbidity score (MS) in twenty patients. In addition, immune and biochemical markers and organ functions were monitored for objective markers of response. Student's paired-'t' test was applied to assess statistical significance.

RESULTS

Ten out of 20 patients showed both fever and parasite clearance, which was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction. Remaining ten patients had persistent but decreasing parasitemia. Four of them needed chloroquine as a fail-safe procedure. Irrespective of the degree of parasitemia all the patients showed decrease in MS. There was also an increase in platelet count and normalization of plasma lactic acid. There was a good clinical tolerability and an improvement in organ function. The inflammatory cytokines showed a reduction; particularly in TNF-α within a day.

CONCLUSIONS

At the given dosage, N. arbor-tristis showed disease-modifying activity; early clinical recovery with a decline of TNF-α and a gradual parasite clearance. Further studies with a standardised formulation for dose-searching and optimizing the treatment schedule are needed in a larger sample size.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NO

The process of trial registration had not begun when the study was conducted in 2000.

Immunostimulant activities of the aqueous methanolic extract of Leptadenia pyrotechnica, a plant from Cholistan desert

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Leptadenia pyrotechnica (Forssk.) Decne (Asclepiadaceae) is a well-renowned medicinal shrub, used by herbal practitioners for various ailments including allergic rhinitis, productive cough, abortion, diabetes, stomach disorders, fever, kidney disorders, stones and cancer

AIM OF THE STUDY

On the basis of folkloric uses, L. pyrotechnica was selected from the wide medicinal flora of the Cholistan desert of Pakistan, for the exploration of immunomodulatory potential.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Aqueous methanolic (30:70) extract of aerial parts of L. pyrotechnica (Lp. Cr) was prepared by 3 days thrice maceration and subsequent evaporation under reduced pressure. In-vivo experiments were performed in Wistar albino rats including neutrophil adhesion test, haemagglutinating antibody (HA) titre, delayed-type hypersensitivity response, phagocytic activity and cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression.

RESULTS

Lp. Cr produced a significant increase in phagocytic index in dose-dependent fashion (3.56, 4.18 and 5.42 at 30, 100 and 300mg/kg, respectively) as well as an augmented response in the delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction and HA titre induced by sheep erythrocytes. Lp. Cr also showed improved adhesion of neutrophils with nylon pellets (15.28, 27.85 and 38.42% at the doses of 30, 100 and 300mg/kg) and prevented myelosuppression in cyclophosphamide-treated rats as evidenced from the hematological parameters. The results of treatment were compared with normal and standard control groups throughout the study and the effects by Lp. Cr (300mg/kg) were found to be comparable with Levamisole.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicated that L. pyrotechnica possesses immunostimulatory activity and justify its traditional use for the control and management of diseases in which the immune system needs to be stimulated like infectious diseases.

Methanol extract of Nyctanthes arbortristis seeds enhances non-specific immune responses and protects Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters) against Aeromonas hydrophila infection

Immunostimulation using medicinal plant extracts is a promising approach for prevention and control of diseases with reference to sustainable fish farming. Oreochromis mossambicus, dubbed as aquatic chicken is a cultured fish worldwide and a laboratory model organism. Aeromonas hydrophila is one of the major bacterial pathogens in fish farming that causes huge loss to aquaculture industries. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of methanol extract of Nyctanthes arbortristis seeds on disease resistance of O. mossambicus against live virulent A. hydrophila. We also investigated its effect on the non-specific immune parameters such as serum lysozyme, myeloperoxidase, antiprotease and specific immune parameters in terms of specific serum antibody titres assayed by bacterial agglutination test. Our studies indicate that intra-peritoneal administration of 20mg/kg methanol extract increases the Relative Percent Survival (RPS) of O. mossambicus challenged with LD80 of A. hydrophila. Further, both non-specific and specific immune parameters were enhanced by the methanol extract. Further experiments at molecular levels in the laboratory and also efficacy testing at field level are essential before applying this plant product in aquaculture industry.

Ethnobotanical perspective of antimalarial plants: traditional knowledge based study

BACKGROUND

Considering the demand of antimalarial plants it has become essential to find and locate them for their optimal extraction. The work aims to find plants with antimalarial activities which were used by the local people; to raise the value of traditional knowledge system (TKS) prevalent in the study region; to compile characteristics of local plants used in malaria treatment (referred as antimalarial plants) and to have its spatial distribution analysis to establish a concept of geographical health.

METHODS

Antimalarial plants are listed based on literature survey and field data collected during rainy season, from 85 respondents comprised of different ethnic groups. Ethno-medicinal utilities of plants was extracted; botanical name, family, local name, part used, folklore, geographical location and image of plants were recorded after cross validating with existing literatures. The interview was trifurcated in field, Vaidya/Hakims and house to house. Graphical analysis was done for major plants families, plant part used, response of people and patients and folklore. Mathematical analysis was done for interviewee's response, methods of plant identification and people's preferences of TKS through three plant indices.

RESULTS

Fifty-one plants belonging to 27 families were reported with its geographical attributes. It is found plant root (31.75 %) is used mostly for malaria treatment and administration mode is decoction (41.2 %) mainly. The study area has dominance of plants of family Fabaceae (7), Asteraceae (4), Acanthaceae (4) and Amaranthaceae (4). Most popular plants found are Adhatoda vasica, Cassia fistula and Swertia chirata while  % usage of TKS is 82.0 % for malaria cure.

CONCLUSION

The research findings can be used by both scientific community and common rural people for bio-discovery of these natural resources sustainably. The former can extract the tables to obtain a suitable plant towards finding a suitable lead molecule in a drug discovery project; while the latter can meet their local demands of malaria, scientifically.

Plant-derived immunomodulators: an insight on their preclinical evaluation and clinical trials

The phagocyte-microbe interactions in the immune system is a defense mechanism but when excessively or inappropriately deployed can harm host tissues and participate in the development of different non-immune and immune chronic inflammatory diseases such as autoimmune problems, allergies, some rheumatoid disorders, cancers and others. Immunodrugs include organic synthetics, biological agents such as cytokines and antibodies acting on single targets or pathways have been used to treat immune-related diseases but with limited success. Most of immunostimulants and immunosuppressants in clinical use are the cytotoxic drugs which possess serious side effects. There is a growing interest to use herbal medicines as multi-component agents to modulate the complex immune system in the prevention of infections rather than treating the immune-related diseases. Many therapeutic effects of plant extracts have been suggested to be due to their wide array of immunomodulatory effects and influence on the immune system of the human body. Phytochemicals such as flavonoids, polysaccharides, lactones, alkaloids, diterpenoids and glycosides, present in several plants, have been reported to be responsible for the plants immunomodulating properties. Thus the search for natural products of plant origin as new leads for development of potent and safe immunosuppressant and immunostimulant agents is gaining much major research interest. The present review will give an overview of widely investigated plant-derived compounds (curcumin, resveratrol, epigallocatechol-3-gallate, quercetin, colchicine, capsaicin, andrographolide, and genistein) which have exhibited potent effects on cellular and humoral immune functions in pre-clinical investigations and will highlight their clinical potential.

In vitro antioxidant evaluation and total phenolics of methanolic leaf extracts of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis L

AIM

To investigate the in vitro antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of the methanolic leaf extract of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis L. (NA).

METHODS

The sample was tested using five in vitro antioxidant methods (1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazine radical scavenging activity (DPPH), hydroxyl radical-scavenging activity (-OH), nitric oxide scavenging activity (NO), superoxide radical-scavenging activity, and total antioxidant activity) to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant potential of NA and the total phenolic content (Folin-Ciocalteu method). The extract showed good free radical scavenging property which was calculated as an IC50 value.

RESULTS

IC50 (Half maximal inhibitory concentration) of the methanolic extract was found to be 57.93 μg·mL(-1) for DPPH, 98.61 μg·mL(-1) for -OH, 91.74 μg·mL(-1) for NO, and 196.07 μg·mL(-1) for superoxide radical scavenging activity. Total antioxidant capacity of the extract was found to be (1198 ± 24.05) mg ascorbic acid for the methanolic extract. Free radical scavenging activity observed in the extracts of NA showed a concentration-dependent reaction. The in vitro scavenging tested for free radicals was reported to be due to high phenolic content in the leaf extract. The leaf extract of NA showed the highest total phenolic content with a value of 78.48 ± 4.2 equivalent mg TAE/g (tannic acid equivalent).

CONCLUSIONS

N. arbor-tristis leaf extract exhibited potent free radical scavenging activity. The finding suggests that N. arbor-tristis leaves could be a potential source of natural antioxidant.

Green Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles for Antimicrobial Activity Against Burn Wounds Contaminating Bacteria

Silver nanoparticles ( AgNPs ) were prepared from the plant extract of N. arbor-tristis under atmospheric conditions through green synthesis and characterized by various physicochemical techniques like UV-Visible spectroscopy, IR Spectra, energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS), X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and the results confirmed the synthesis of homogeneous and stable AgNPs by the plant extracts. The antimicrobial activity of AgNPs was investigated against most common bacteria found in burn wound Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In these tests, Mueller Hinton agar plates were used with AgNPs of various concentrations, supplemented in liquid systems. P. aeruginosa was inhibited at the low concentration of AgNPs , whereas the growth-inhibitory effect on S. epidermidis was mild. These results suggest that AgNPs can be used as effective growth inhibitors of various microorganisms, making them applicable to diverse medical devices and antimicrobial control systems.

Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn--a critical ethnopharmacological review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Nyctanthes arbor-tristis (Oleaceae) is a mythological plant; has high medicinal values in Ayurveda. The popular medicinal use of this plant are anti-helminthic and anti-pyretic besides its use as a laxative, in rheumatism, skin ailments and as a sedative. Vitally, the natives plant it in their home gardens to pass on its medicinal usage to oncoming generations.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The present review encompasses an ethnopharmacological evaluation focusing on information on the chemical constituents, pharmacological actions and toxicology in order to reveal the therapeutic potential and gaps requiring research involvement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present review is based on searches in Scifinder(®), Pubmed (National Library of Medicine) and books published on the subject during the period 1933 to 2012.

RESULTS

Nyctanthes arbor-tristis is most important in local and traditional medicines especially in India for treating intermittent fevers, arthritis and obstinate sciatica. Crude extracts and isolated compounds from the plant were shown to be pharmacologically active against inflammation, malaria, viral infection, leishmanisis and as an immunostimulant. The major class of biologically active compounds are the iridoid glucosides incl., Arbortristoside A, B and C from the seeds active as anticancer, anti-leishmania, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, immunomodulatory and antiviral. Other molecules; calceolarioside A, 4-hydroxyhexahydrobenzofuran-7one and β-sitosterol from leaves have been reported to be active as anti-leishmanial, anticancer and anti-inflammatory, respectively. The crude extracts have been found to be safe with an LD50 of 16gm/kg, while the LD50 of arbortristoside-A isolated from the seeds was found to be 0.5g/kg.

CONCLUSION

Mostly in-vitro or in some cases in-vivo models provide some evidence especially in the treatment of inflammatory conditions like arthritis, fevers related to malaria and protozoan diseases especially leishmaniasis. The only clinical study found, is for treating malaria, but with crude extract only. Further, more detailed safety data pertaining to the acute and sub-acute toxicity, cardio and immunotoxicity also needs to be generated for crude extracts or pure compounds.

Biochemical characterization of radical scavenging polyphenols from Nyctanthes arbortristis

Context:

Antioxidants are quenchers of free radical that are responsible for inducing oxidative stress generated via reactive oxygen species-induced degenerative diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases etc. Plant and plant products are recognized as safe and potential health promoting and nutritive sources.

Aims:

To investigate the antioxidant potency of polyphenol extract (PE) of Nyctanthes arbortristis leaves and identification of the active constituent by HPLC.

Materials and Methods:

PE of N. arbortristis leaves was investigated for antioxidant activity employing various established in vitro systems, such as lipid peroxidation in liposome, DPPH and hydroxyl radical scavenging, reducing power assay, and iron ion chelation. Identification of active constituent in PE of N. arbortristis responsible for antioxidant activity by HPLC. Statistical analysis used: All experiments were carried out in triplicates. Data were shown as mean ± standard deviation (SD). SPSS 10.0.5 version for windows (SPSS software Inc., USA) computer program was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

Identification of active constituent in PE revealed gallic acid 75.8 ± 0.21, protocatechuic acid 14.6 ± 0.5, chlorogenic acid 6.79 ± 0.43, and caffeic acid 5.34 ± 0.2 μg/ml. PE showed strong inhibitory activity of 73% at 200 μg/ml toward lipid peroxidation in egg lecithin, concentration-dependent inhibition of deoxyribose oxidation at 200 μg/ml was 85% inhibition, and considerable antioxidant activity in DPPH radical assay system at 200 μg/ml was 79% inhibition. BHA and gallic acid showed significant observations.

Conclusion:

The antioxidant potency significantly correlated with the phenolic content of PE. Considering that medicinal herbs contain potent phytochemicals, which is effectively utilized for various degenerative disease, these in vitro results showed that N. arbortristis leaves could be effectively employed in functional food, to alleviate oxidative stress.

Immunomodulatory effects of crude phenylethanoid glycosides from Ligustrum purpurascens

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ligustrum purpurascens, named as "Ku ding cha", has been used as a kind of functional tea in southern China for about two thousand years, which has the effects on diuresis, anti-hypertension, weight-loss and anti-inflammation.

THE AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was aimed to investigate the immune enhancement effects of the crude phenylethanoid glycosides (CPGs) from Ligustrum. Purpurascens on mice and analyze the chemical profiles of phenylethanoid glycosides in the CPGs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The immune functions enhancing potential of CPGs was determined using serum hemolysin antibody, phagocytosis, splenocyte antibody production, and NK cells activity assays. The contents of five major constituents in the crude glycosides of Ligustrum purpurascens were determined by using liquid chromatography, other five glycosides were deduced according to their UV and MS spectra compared with the literature as well.

RESULTS

In the immunizing experiment, mice treated with different doses of CPGs showed an increase (p<0.01) in the haemagglutination titre compared with the control group. The increases (p<0.05) were found to be significant at doses of 440 mg/kg and 1.32 g/kg in the experiments of antibody production of spleen cells, MΦ phagocytosis of chicken RBCs and NK cell activity. Further chemical characterization yielded 10 constituents from CPGs, five glycosides were quantified by HPLC and the structures of other five compounds were speculated according to their UV and MS spectra.

CONCLUSION

The results suggested that phenylethanoid glycosides from Ligustrum purpurascens have immunomodulatory effects on mice.

Toxicopathological evaluation in Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) following repeated oral exposure to acephate

The present study was carried out to evaluate the effects of exposure at different doses of acephate on hematology, blood biochemistry, oxidative stress and immune system of Wistar rats. The experiment was carried out on 40 Wistar rats, which were divided in four groups. Animals of the three treatment groups were given with different sublethal doses (1/40th, 1/20th, 1/10th of lethal dose 50 value) of acephate by oral gavage. The hematology, blood biochemistry, oxidative stress marker, humoral immune response and cell-mediated immunity were evaluated following acephate exposure. Significant alteration in hematological parameters was not observed following different doses of acephate; however, significant alteration in alkaline phosphatase, gamma glutamyl transferase, acetyl cholinesterase, lipid peroxidase and superoxide dismutase was observed in medium- and high-dose group animals. Nonsignificant decrease in antibody titer in animals exposed to high dose has been observed compared with animals of control group. However, significant alteration in cell-mediated immunity was not observed in animals treated with acephate at different doses.

Hematological and Immunological Changes Due to Short-term Oral Administration of Acephate

To evaluate immunotoxicological effects of environmental chemical, subacute toxicity of repeated (28 day) oral administration of acephate (Ace) in BALB/c mice was assessed. Thirty two (sixteen male and sixteen female) mice were divided into four different groups with each group containing eight (four male and four female) mice. Mice of Group C1 were administered normal saline only and served as control. Group T1 was given 1/40(th) of apparent LD(50) (ALD(50)) (8.78 mg/kg), and group T2 was put on 1/30(th) of ALD(50) [11.7 mg/kg], while group T3 received 1/20(th) of ALD(50) [17.55 mg/kg] of Ace suspended in normal saline. The blood samples were collected from mice after 28 days of oral administration and analyzed for hematological, biochemical, and immunological parameters. The study showed that hematological parameters (monocytes and granulocytes) remained unaffected except total leukocyte count and lymphocyte which were decreased highly significantly [P≤0.01] in mice of group T3 on the 28(th) day of experiment. Serum total protein (TP) and serum globulin decreased significantly in mice of treatment groups dose dependently; however, no significant change was seen in serum albumin. Progressive increase in live body weight of mice decreased significantly in extremely toxic group only while spleen:body weight ratio decreased significantly in dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, Ace produced suppressed humoral immune response and the delayed-type hypersensitivity response to Sheep red blood cells (SRBCs) was altered nonsignificantly. The results of this study describe the suppression of immune responses following exposure to Ace at low concentrations in experimental mice.

Modulating effect of Gmelina arborea Linn. on immunosuppressed albino rats

AIM

In the present study, the immunomodulatory effects of roots of Gmelina arborea Linn. were investigated

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Methanolic extract of G. arborea Linn. (MEGA) and its ethyl acetate fraction (EAFME) were used for evaluating the pharmacological activity. The modulating effect was evaluated on humoral and cell-mediated immune response using animal models like cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression, delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) response, and humoral antibody (HA) titre

RESULTS

Both test extracts produced significant increase in HA titre, DTH response, and levels of total white blood cell count

CONCLUSION

This drug is found to be a potential immunostimulant.

Deciphering molecular mechanism underlying antileishmanial activity of Nyctanthes arbortristis, an Indian medicinal plant

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Nyctanthes arbortristis L. (Oleaceae) is widely used in the traditional medicine of India. The plant is shown to have antibacterial and antileishmanial activities.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Evaluation of iridoid glucosides from the plant as inhibitor of trypanothione reductase (TryR), a validated drug target enzyme of the Leishmania parasite. The study contributes towards understanding mechanism of antileishmanial effect of the plant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

TryR of Leishmania parasite is expressed and purified. Iridoid glucosides are isolated from the plant and tested as inhibitor of TryR enzyme of the parasite.

RESULTS

Inhibitory constant (K(i)) of various iridoid glucosides ranges from 3.24±0.05 μM to 6.49±0.05 μM. Thus, the molecular mechanism underlying antileishmanial activity of these compounds is mediated through inhibition of TryR.

CONCLUSION

The current study also points out towards potential application of iridoid glucosides as novel drugs against the disease.

Immunomodulatory activity of Vachadhatryadi Avaleha in albino rats

The present study is carried out to evaluate the immuno-modulatory activity of Vacha Dhatryadi Avaleha in albino rats. Vacha Dhatryadi Avaleha was prepared by classical method and evaluated for humoral antibody formation and cell-medicated immunity in established experimental models. Test formulation was administered at the dose of 900 mg/kg and parameters like hemagglutination titer, ponderal changes, histopathology of immunological organs and immunological paw edema were recorded. Vacha Dhatryadi Avaleha significantly enhanced antibody formation and moderately suppressed the immunological edema. The present study concludes that Vachadhatryadi Avaleha has immunopotentiating activity.