In vitro antioxidant potential of medicinal plant extracts and their activities against oral bacteria based on Brazilian folk medicine

Inhibition of Oral Pathogenic Bacteria, Suppression of Bacterial Adhesion and Invasion on Human Squamous Carcinoma Cell Line (HSC-4 Cells), and Antioxidant Activity of Plant Extracts from Acanthaceae Family

Medicinal plants have traditionally been used to treat various human diseases worldwide. In this study, we evaluated the leaf extracts of plants from the Acanthaceae family, specifically Clinacanthus nutans (Burm.f.) Lindau, Thunbergia laurifolia Lindl., and Acanthus ebracteatus Vahl., for their compounds and antioxidant activity. The ethanolic extracts of A. ebracteatus showed the highest total phenolic content at 22.55 mg GAE/g extract and the strongest antioxidant activities, with IC50 values of 0.24 mg/mL and 3.05 mg/mL, as determined by DPPH and ABTS assays. The antibacterial efficacy of these extracts was also tested against Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The diameters of the inhibition zones ranged from 14.7 to 17.3 mm using the agar well diffusion method, with MIC and MBC values ranging from 7.81 to 250 mg/mL. Anti-biofilm formation, antibacterial adhesion, and antibacterial invasion assays further demonstrated that these medicinal plant extracts can inhibit bacterial biofilm formation and prevent the adhesion and invasion of oral pathogenic bacteria on the human tongue squamous cell carcinoma-derived cell line (HSC-4 cells). The ethanolic extracts of C. nutans and A. ebracteatus were able to inhibit the gtfD and gbp genes, which facilitate biofilm formation and bacterial adherence to surfaces. These findings provide new insights into the antibacterial and antioxidant properties of plant extracts from the Acanthaceae family. These activities could enhance the clinical and pharmaceutical applications of plant extracts as an alternative therapy for bacterial infections and a dietary supplement.

Antibacterial activity and anxiolytic-like effect of Ziziphus joazeiro Mart. leaves in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Ziziphus joazeiro Mart. is an endemic plant of the Caatinga that presents a great socioeconomic importance for the Northeast and Semiarid Region of Brazil. In view of this, this study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity and anxiolytic-like effects of Ziziphus joazeiro Mart leaves in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio). The characterization of the main classes of metabolites was performed through chemical reactions. The antibacterial and antibiotic potentiating activity was evaluated by broth microdilution assays. The 96 h acute toxicity, open field test and anxiety models test was evaluated in vivo on adult zebrafish. The results obtained in the phytochemical prospection evidenced the presence of flobabenic tannins, leucoanthocyanidins, flavonois, flavonones, catechins, alkaloids, steroids, and triterpenoids. EEFZJ did not show antibacterial activity for all microorganism tested (MIC ≥ 1024 µg/mL), but reduced the concentration required for bacterial growth inhibition in combination with gentamicin and norfloxacin against multidrug-resistant strains of S. aureus (SA10) and E. coli (EC06), exhibiting synergistic effect with these antibiotics (p<0.0001). In the tests in vivo, EEFZJ was found to be nontoxic, performing reduced locomotor activity and demonstrated an anxiolytic-like effect in adult zebrafish via GABAergic and Serotoninergic systems (5-HT₁, 5-HT_2A/2C and 5-HT_3A/3B).

Effects of different drying treatments on the microstructure, free amino acids, volatile compounds and antioxidant activity of Flammulina velutipes root

Drying treatments are an effective method of preserving the beneficial properties of postharvest mushrooms. The effects of natural-air drying (ND), hot-air drying (HD), vacuum-freeze drying (FD), heat pump drying (HPD) and microwave-vacuum drying (MVD) on the microstructure, flavor- and health-related compounds of F. velutipes root were investigated. The results showed that FD had the least impact on the microstructure of F. velutipes root and its original porous fiber structure appeared complete. It also possessed the highest content of volatile compounds. MVD gave the highest contents of umami amino acids, total phenolics and total flavonoids, and its extract exhibited high antioxidant activity. In addition, different drying treatments had significant effect on the chemical components of F. velutipes root, with FD and MVD may be the potent drying strategies for preservation of flavor and nutraceuticals respectively. Therefore, our results provided essential data support for F. velutipes root processing and functional product development.

Targeting Shikimate Kinase Pathway of Acinetobacter baumannii: A Structure-Based Computational Approach to Identify Antibacterial Compounds

Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) is an opportunistic bacterium that has developed multidrug resistance (MDR) to most of today’s antibiotics, posing a significant risk to human health. Considering the fact that developing novel drugs is a time-consuming and expensive procedure, this research focuses on utilizing computational resources for repurposing antibacterial agents for A. baumannii. We targeted shikimate kinase, an essential enzyme in A. baumannii, that plays a significant role in the metabolic process. The basis for generating new therapeutic compounds is to inhibit the shikimate kinase and thereby targeting the shikimate pathway. Herein, 1941 drug-like compounds were investigated in different in silico techniques for assessing drug-likeness properties, ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) profiling, binding affinity, and conformation analysis utilizing Autodock-vina and SwissDock. CHEMBL1237, CHEMBL1237119, CHEMBL2018096, and CHEMBL39167178 were determined as potential drug candidates for suppressing shikimate kinase protein. Molecular Dynamics Simulation (MDS) results for root mean square deviation, root mean square fluctuation, hydrogen bond, and gyration radius confirm the drug candidates’ molecular stability with the target protein. According to this study, CHEMBL1237 (Lisinopril) could be the most suitable candidate for A. baumannii. Our investigation suggests that the inhibitors of shikimate kinase could represent promising treatment options for A. baumannii. However, further in vitro and in vivo studies are necessary to validate the therapeutic potential of the suggested drug candidates.

Disruption of biofilms in periodontal disease through the induction of phase transition by cationic dextrans

Biofilm of oral pathogenic microorganisms induced by their multiplication and coaggregation would lead to periodontitis. In biofilms, the extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) as a protective shield encapsulates the individual bacteria, protecting them against attack. To alleviate periodontal disease, disrupting the EPS of pathogenic bacteria is crucial and challenging. Based on the sufficient capacity of disorganizing EPS of our designed cationic dextrans, we hypothesized that these polymers could be competent in relieving periodontitis. We validated that cationic dextrans could induce the phase transition of EPS in biofilms, especially the Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis), a keystone periodontal pathogen, thus effectively destroying biofilm in vitro. More importantly, satisfactory in vivo treatment was achieved in a rat periodontal disease model. In summary, the study exploited a practical and effective strategy to treat periodontitis with cationic dextrans' powerful biofilm-controlling potential. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Periodontal disease is closely related to dental plaque biofilms on the tooth surface. The biofilm forms gel structures and shields the bacteria underneath, thus protecting oral pathogens from traditional anti-bacterial reagents. Due to limited penetration into gel, the efficacy of these reagents in biofilm elimination is restricted. Our designed cationic dextran could wipe out the coverage of gel-like EPS to disperse encapsulated bacteria. Such superior capacity endowed them with satisfactory effect in disrupting biofilm. Notably, in a rat periodontitis model, cationic dextrans dramatically suppressed alveolar bone loss and alleviated periodontal inflammation by controlling dental plaque. Given the increasing global concerns about periodontal disease, it's worth expanding the application of cationic dextrans both scientifically and clinically.

Role of Medicinal Herbs in Periodontal Therapy: A Systematic Review

Aims and Objectives

The use of medicinal herbs to prevent gingival and periodontal diseases has become increasingly popular due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This systematic review aims to provide the current literature to validate the traditional use of medicinal herbs in the management of gingival and periodontal diseases.

Materials and Methods

An online literature search was conducted to identify research papers published from 2010 to 2022 in three major scientific databases, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, in June 2022. Original research studies, case reports, and systematic reviews on medicinal plants' application in oral health care were selected to be included in this systematic review. Only high-quality articles identified in the quality assessment were included for evidence synthesis.

Results

Initial keyword research yielded 726 free-text articles published between 2010 and 2022. Of these, 14 articles (8 research papers and 6 reviews) were included for evidence synthesis. The review's findings indicate that the antibacterial property of medicinal plants is due to their alkaline nature and prevents plaque and calculus formation by maintaining acid-alkali balance in saliva. Various parts of medicinal plants help maintain periodontal health. Glycyrrhiza glabra, Ficus religiosa, and Plantago major effectively inhibit primary plaque colonizers and periodontal pathogens. Medicago sativa, Aloe barbadensis Miller, and Trifolium pratense have excellent applications in treating periodontal diseases. Mangifera indica, Pongamia pinnata, the husk of Cocos nucifera, the root of G. glabra and Curcuma longa, leaves of Psidium guajava and Azadirachta indica, fruits of Citrus medica and Punica granatum, Ocimum Moringa oleifera extract, and pomegranate peel extract can serve as a promising alternative in managing chronic gingivitis.

Conclusion

The anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, and astringent action of extracts obtained from various parts of medicinal plants make them effective in reducing gingival and periodontal diseases. Herbal medicine may be a viable alternative to contemporary pharmaceuticals as an adjuvant to scaling and root planning procedures.

Coconut Palm: Food, Feed, and Nutraceutical Properties

Simple Summary

Different components of the coconut are being looked into and used as a potential substitute to create or substitute animal feed components. Different coconut products and by-products—such as coconut water, milk, copra, testa, flour, raw kernels, oil, and desiccated coconut—are used with livestock, especially ruminants and aquaculture industries. However, the use of coconut in animal feed may be limited by several things that make it less nutritious. There is a possibility to research new technologies, such as pre-treating coconut to reduce the effects of anti-nutritional substances before they can be used to feed the animals. This review article describes a few important discoveries, which gives a somewhat hopeful view of the future. Different parts of the coconut can and should be used more in animal feed. Coconut in animal feed makes it much cheaper to feed animals and helps them in the digestion process, growth, and health. However, innovative methods of processing, extracting, and treating coconut need to be encouraged to improve nutritional quality and make coconut products function efficiently in feed.

Abstract

The price of traditional sources of nutrients used in animal feed rations is increasing steeply in developed countries due to their scarcity, high demand from humans for the same food items, and expensive costs of raw materials. Thus, one of the alternative sources is coconut parts or coconut as a whole fruit. Coconut is known as the ‘tree of abundance’, ‘tree of heaven’, and ‘tree of life’ owing to its numerous uses, becoming a very important tree in tropical areas for its provision of food, employment, and business opportunities to millions of people. Coconut contains a rich profile of macro and micronutrients that vary depending on the parts and how they are used. It is frequently chosen as an alternative source of protein and fiber. Its uses as an antibacterial agent, immunomodulant, and antioxidant further increase its importance. Using coconut oil in ruminant feed helps to minimize methane gas emissions by 18–30%, and to reduce dry matter intake up to 4.2 kg/d. The aquaculture sectors also use coconut palm as an alternative source because it significantly improves the digestion, growth, lipid metabolism, health, and antioxidative responses. However, coconut is not widely used in poultry diets although it has adequate amount of protein and carbohydrate due to anti-nutritional factors such cellulose (13%), galactomannan (61%), and mannan (26%). This review considered the importance and potential of coconut usage as an alternative ingredient in feed and supplements in various livestock sectors as it has plentiful nutrients and functional qualities, simultaneously leading to reduced feed cost and enhanced production.

Comparative evaluation of various herbal extracts on biofilms of Streptococcus mutans and Scardovia wiggsiae: An in vitro study

BACKGROUND

Owing to their strong antimicrobial properties, Helichrysum arenarium (HA), Anzer thyme (AT), and Stevia rebaudiana (SR) have been commonly used in medicine.

AIM

This study aimed to evaluate antimicrobial activities of HA, AT, and SR against S. mutans and S. wiggsiae in biofilms formed on primary teeth.

DESIGN

Fifty enamel samples were divided into two groups: mono-species biofilm and two-species biofilm. Each biofilm group was divided into five subgroups (n = 5): group 1, HA; group 2, AT; group 3, SR; group 4, CHX (positive control); and group 5, distilled water (negative control). Minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration were determined. The number of viable microorganisms was counted. The presence of microorganisms was examined using a scanning electron microscope, and mineral analysis was performed using energy-dispersive X-ray analysis.

RESULTS

In the mono-species biofilm, CHX was significantly more effective against S. mutans than other groups (p < .001). Furthermore, HA, AT, and SR groups showed significantly lower colony counts of S. mutans than distilled water (p < .05). In the two-species biofilm group, AT, SR, and CHX were significantly more effective against S. wiggsiae than distilled water (p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

HA, AT, and SR have been suggested as effective natural alternatives to CHX against cariogenic bacteria.

Toxic Potential of Cerrado Plants on Different Organisms

Cerrado has many compounds that have been used as biopesticides, herbicides, medicines, and others due to their highly toxic potential. Thus, this review aims to present information about the toxicity of Cerrado plants. For this purpose, a review was performed using PubMed, Science Direct, and Web Of Science databases. After applying exclusion criteria, 187 articles published in the last 20 years were selected and analyzed. Detailed information about the extract preparation, part of the plant used, dose/concentration tested, model system, and employed assay was provided for different toxic activities described in the literature, namely cytotoxic, genotoxic, mutagenic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, insecticidal, antiparasitic, and molluscicidal activities. In addition, the steps to execute research on plant toxicity and the more common methods employed were discussed. This review synthesized and organized the available research on the toxic effects of Cerrado plants, which could contribute to the future design of new environmentally safe products.

In Vitro antimicrobial activity of medicinal plant Rumex Nervosus against selected oral pathogens

Background:

Rumex nervosus is a plant found and used in Saudi Arabia as traditional herbal medicine. Various types of plant extracts with inherent synergistic properties are being used against oral diseases. Thus, in the present study, the anti-microbial activity of Rumex nervosus extracts was studied against six common oral pathogenic bacterial strains and a pathogenic fungus.

Materials and Method:

Plants of R. nervosus were collected and air-dried, and extracts from various plant parts were obtained. Six clinical isolates of bacteria, namely Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, S. salivarius, S. sanguis, E. faecalis, and Lactobacillus acidophilus), and one pathogenic Candida (C. albicans) were obtained. Antibacterial and antifungal activity of R. nervosus was determined using the Kirby–Bauer agar disc diffusion method. Zones of inhibition were recorded after 48 h of incubation. Data collected were analyzed. A two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Methanol extract from leaves were highly effective against S. aureus, with a mean inhibition zone of 33 mm, followed by a 28-mm zone of inhibition using an extract from roots and a minimum inhibition zone using an extract from stems. Zones of inhibition using methanol extract from roots were effective against S. mutans, S. sanguinis, E. faecalis, and L. acidophilus, with mean inhibition zones being 19, 17, 33, and 31 mm, respectively.

Conclusion:

The study has provided insight into a new potential herbal anti-microbial agent that may benefit dental care.

Caribbean Women's Health and Transnational Ethnobotany

Caribbean Women's Health and Transnational Ethnobotany. Immigrants from the Dominican Republic (DR) and Haiti are among the top foreign-born communities in New York City (NYC). As people migrate to new countries, they bring their ethnomedical beliefs and practices, and adapt their plant pharmacopoeias. Haiti and the DR share a flora on the island of Hispaniola. In NYC, the flora is limited to what is available in the city. We selected plants for future laboratory research based on ethnobotanical data from two surveys among Dominicans in the DR and NYC, and a Haitian literature review. In both Dominican datasets, gynecological infections were the top women's health condition treated with plants. We identified 10 species for this purpose reported by Dominicans that are also known medicines in Haitian culture, although not yet documented for women's health. Plants for gynecological infections potentially cause dysbiosis of the vaginal microbiota, and may increase rather than prevent disease. There is a public health need to assess traditional medicines for their ability to inhibit pathogenic bacteria, while causing minimal disruption to the vaginal flora. Several species are known antibacterials, but remain to be tested for their efficacy. These results also provide a foundation for a planned ethnobotanical survey among NYC Haitian women.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12231-021-09526-3.

Pediatric Oncology Nursing Research in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Exemplars from Three Regions

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the status of pediatric oncology nursing research in three low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) as examples across three World Health Organization regions: East Africa, Eastern Mediterranean region, and Latin America.

DATA SOURCES

Published literature was identified from Google Scholar, PubMed, Scielo, Virtual Health Library, and reference lists of some articles.

CONCLUSION

The experiences of the three LMIC pediatric oncology nurses illustrate the situation of nurse research in their setting and identify relevant published literature. The authors highlight the challenges for nurses to conduct research (eg, lack of training, mentors, funding, and opportunities). Local evidence to inform nursing practice in LMICs is needed. Recommendations for ameliorating the situation include increased advanced practice nurse education, physician and hospital support, funding, and protected time.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Pediatric oncology nursing practice is culturally and context-driven and requires locally acquired evidence to support best practices. Only when sufficient, sustainable, and local nursing research training and education is available in LMICs, will this evidence be generated. Nursing research training (eg, master's and PhD programs), funding, and protected time are three key steps to guide and motivate staff nurses as well as academic nurses to participate in research that informs the care of children and adolescents with cancer across all countries and not only those with significant resources.

Reference genes for quantitative real-time PCR normalization of Cenostigma pyramidale roots under salt stress and mycorrhizal association

Cenostigma pyramidale is a native legume of the Brazilian semiarid region which performs symbiotic association with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), being an excellent model for studying genes associated with tolerance against abiotic and biotic stresses. In RT-qPCR approach, the use of reference genes is mandatory to avoid incorrect interpretation of the relative expression. This study evaluated the stability of ten candidate reference genes (CRGs) from C. pyramidale root tissues under salt stress (three collection times) and associated with AMF (three different times of salinity). The de novo transcriptome was obtained via RNA-Seq sequencing. Three algorithms were used to calculate the stability of CRGs under different conditions: (i) global (Salt, Salt+AMF, AMF and Control, and collection times), (ii) only non-inoculated plants, and (iii) AMF (only inoculated plants). HAG2, SAC1, aRP3 were the most stable CRGs for global and AMF assays, whereas HAG2, SAC1, RHS1 were the best for salt stress assay. This CRGs were used to validate the relative expression of two up-regulated transcripts in Salt2h (RAP2-3 and PIN8). Our study provides the first set of reference genes for C. pyramidale under salinity and AMF, supporting future researches on gene expression with this species.

Oxygen radical antioxidant capacity (ORAC) and antibacterial properties of Melicope glabra bark extracts and isolated compounds

Melicope glabra (Blume) T. G. Hartley from the Rutaceae family is one of the richest sources of plant secondary metabolites, including coumarins and flavanoids. This study investigates the free radical scavenging and antibacterial activities of M. glabra and its isolated compounds. M. glabra ethyl acetate and methanol extracts were prepared using the cold maceration technique. The isolation of compounds was performed with column chromatography. The free radical scavenging activity of the extracts and isolated compounds were evaluated based on their oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) activities. The extracts and compounds were also subjected to antibacterial evaluation using bio-autographic and minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) techniques against two oral pathogens, Enterococcus faecalis and Streptococcus mutans. Isolation of phytoconstituents from ethyl acetate extract successfully yielded quercetin 3, 5, 3’-trimethyl ether (1) and kumatakenin (2), while the isolation of the methanol extract resulted in scoparone (3), 6, 7, 8-trimethoxycoumarin (4), marmesin (5), glabranin (6), umbelliferone (7), scopoletin (8), and sesamin (9). The study is the first to isolate compound (1) from Rutaceae plants, and also the first to report the isolation of compounds (2–5) from M. glabra. The ORAC evaluation showed that the methanol extract is stronger than the ethyl acetate extract, while umbelliferone (7) exhibited the highest ORAC value of 24 965 μmolTE/g followed by glabranin (6), sesamin (9) and scopoletin (8). Ethyl acetate extract showed stronger antibacterial activity towards E. faecalis and S. mutans than the methanol extract with MIC values of 4166.7 ± 1443.4 μg/ml and 8303.3 ± 360.8 μg/ml respectively. Ethyl acetate extract inhibited E. faecalis growth, as shown by the lowest optical density value of 0.046 at a concentration of 5.0 mg/mL with a percentage inhibition of 95%. Among the isolated compounds tested, umbelliferone (7) and sesamin (9) exhibited promising antibacterial activity against S. mutans with both exhibiting MIC values of 208.3 ± 90.6 μg/ml. Findings from this study suggests M. glabra as a natural source of potent antioxidant and antibacterial agents.

Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul) L.P. Queiroz: A review on traditional uses, phytochemistry and biological-pharmacological activities

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul.) LP Queiroz (Fabaceae) is an endemic tree in the Northeast of Brazil. Its flowers, leaves, stem bark and root have been used over the years to treat infections, abdominal pain, inflammation, diarrhea, heartburn, and dyspepsia.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study is a critical assessment of the state-of-the-art concerning traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology of P. pyramidalis performed through the application of a robust research strategy to explore the therapeutic potential of P. pyramidalis extracts and isolated compounds for the treatment of human disorders.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information related to this review was systematically collected from scientific literature databases for P. pyramidalis, including papers and patents (PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Google scholar, INPI, WIPO, EPO and USPTO), published books (e.g. Plantas Forrageiras das Caatingas), dissertations and theses. Plant taxonomy has been confirmed in the "The Plant List" database (www.theplantlist.org).

RESULTS

Phytochemical analysis of P. pyramidalis shows several constituents such as flavonoids, triterpenoids and phenylpropanoids. The extract and isolated constituents exhibited a wide range of in vitro and in vivo pharmacological effects including antimicrobial, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, gastroprotective and neuroprotective activities. In addition, toxicity studies showed that the administration of P. pyramidalis extract was safe in non-pregnant rats but displayed teratogenic effects in rats and goats. On the other hand, the search in patent databases reported a single filing, which highlights the disparity between a large number of published scientific articles versus the almost nonexistent filing of patents. This fact evidences a still little explored technological potential of the species.

CONCLUSION

P. pyramidalis represents an important therapeutic resource for the population from the Northeast of Brazil. Pharmacological studies confirmed the effectiveness of the extract or isolated compounds in the treatment of various pathologies traditionally treated with P. pyramidalis. The authors emphasize the need for in-depth research and future clinical trials in order to investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of P. pyramidalis.

Assessment of the In Vitro Antischistosomal Activities of the Extracts and Compounds from Solidago Microglossa DC (Asteraceae) and Aristolochia Cymbifera Mart. & Zucc. (Aristolochiaceae)

Schistosomiasis, caused by helminth flatworms of the genus Schistosoma, is a neglected tropical disease that afflicts over 230 million people worldwide. Currently, treatment is achieved with only one drug, praziquantel (PZQ). In this regard, the roots of Solidago microglossa (Asteraceae) and Aristolochia cymbifera (Aristolochiaceae) are popularly used as anthelmintic. Despite their medicinal use against helminthiasis, such as schistosomiasis, A. cymbifera, and S. microglossa have not been evaluated against S. mansoni. Then, in this work, the in vitro antischistosomal activity of the crude extracts of A. cymbifera (Ac) and S. microglossa (Sm) and their isolated compounds were investigated against S. mansoni adult worms. Sm (200 μg/mL) and Ac (100–200 μg/mL) were lethal to all male and female worms at the 24 h incubation. In addition, Sm (10–50 μg/mL) and Ac (10 μg/mL) caused significant reduction in the parasite's movements, showing no significant cytotoxicity to Vero cells at the same range of schistosomicidal concentrations. Confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed that Sm and Ac caused tegumental damages and reduced the numbers of tubercles of male schistosomes. Chromatographic fractionation of Sm leads to isolation of bauerenol, α-amirin, and spinasterol, while populifolic acid, cubebin, 2-oxopopulifolic acid methyl ester, and 2-oxopopulifolic acid were isolated from Ac. At concentrations of 25–100 μM, bauerenol, α-amirin, spinasterol, populifolic acid, and cubebin showed significant impact on motor activity of S. mansoni. 2-oxopopulifolic acid methyl ester and 2-oxopopulifolic acid caused 100% mortality and decreased the motor activity of adult schistosomes at 100 μM. This study has reported, for the first time, the in vitro antischistosomal effects of S. microglossa and A. cymbifera extracts, also showing promising compounds against adult schistosomes.

Transference of bioactive compounds from support plants to the termites Constrictotermes cyphergaster (Isoptera)

This study aims to investigate the microbiological potential of the termite species Constrictotermes cyphergaster (Silvestri, 1901) and its support plants. We collected five C. cyphergaster nests from three different support plant species. Microbiological assays were performed on these extracts using the serial microdilution method in triplicate to measure the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of each microorganism for the analysed extract. The ethanol extracts of the termite C. cyphergaster showed no significant activity against strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, with an MIC >1000 μg mL-1. Only the extracts of the nests and termites with the nest had the same MICs. These results were in contrast to the extracts of Spondias tuberosa (Umbuzeiro), Poincianella pyramidalis (Catingueira), and Amburana cearensis (Cumaru), which demonstrated significant activity against S. aureus with MICs <1000 μg mL-1. The modulating activity of the extracts tested in the present study demonstrated potentiation of most antibiotics across the bacterial strains tested when combined with the extracts for both S. aureus and E. coli. These results indicate that the extracts tested in the present study may be composed of animal and vegetable origins with the potential to modify the activity of antibiotics and thus may aid in antimicrobial therapy.

Medicinal Plants: versatility and concordance of use in the caatinga area, Northeastern Brazil

This study aims to investigate the diversity of native medicinal plants in a caatinga area, verifying the versatility of species and concordance of use among the informants, in the Angico de Cima community, in the city of Aurora, Ceará, Brazil. Ethnobotanical data were obtained through semi-structured interviews with key informants, adopting the snowball technique. The Relative Importance (RI) and Consensus Factor among Informants (ICF) were analyzed to indicate the most versatile species with the highest agreement of use, respectively. Within the 35 registered native species, eight presented great versatility, with a RI> 1, standing out Ziziphus joazeiro Mart. (1.86) and Heliotropium indicum (L.) Lehm (1.67). The 60 therapeutic indications were grouped into 13 body systems categories, of which Genitourinary System Disorder and Nervous, had the highest agreement of use with ICF from 0.8, each. Some species, such as Heliotropium indicum, have a high RI, are scarcely indicated for therapeutic activities in caatinga and require studies that prove their medicinal properties.

Phytochemicals and antioxidant capacity of some tropical edible plants

OBJECTIVE

To find biological functions such as antibacterial and antioxidant activities in several tropical plants and to investigate the possibility of antibiotic substitute agents to prevent and treat diseases caused by pathogenic bacteria.

METHODS

Plants such as Poncirus trifoliata fruit (Makrut), Zingiber officinale Rosc (Khing), Areca catechu L. (Mak), Solanum melongena L. I (Makkhuayao), and Solanum melongena L. II (Makhurapro) were extracted by methanol, n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, butanol and water. The free radical scavenging activities were measured using 2-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl photometric assay. Antibacterial activities with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) were observed by agar diffusion assay against pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli, Burkholderia sp., Haemopilus somnus, Haemopilus parasuis, Clostridium perfringens, and Pantoea agglomerans.

RESULTS

Poncirus trifoliata fruit methanol extract showed antibacterial activities against gram-negative and gram-positive pathogens. Additionally, this showed the strongest antibacterial activity against Burkholderia sp. and Haemopilus somnus with MIC 131 μg/mL, respectively. Areca catechu L. water extract showed antibacterial activities against Burkholderia sp., Haemopilus somnus, and Haemopilus parasuis. The MIC value for Haemopilus parasuis was 105 μg/mL in this. Antioxidant activity of Zingiber officinale Rosc n-hexane extract showed 2.23 mg/mL effective concentration 50% (EC50) value was the highest activity among tropical plants extracts. Total polyphenol content in Zingiber officinale Rosc methanol extract was 48.4 μg/mL and flavonoid content was 22.1 μg/mL showed the highest values among tested plants extracts.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, these results suggest that tropical plants used in this study may have a potential benefit as an alternative antibiotics agent through their antibacterial and antioxidant activities.

Biological Activities of Heteropyxis natalensis Against Micro-Organisms Involved in Oral Infections

The use of complementary and alternative medicine from plants in South Africa, as in the rest of the world, continues to increase. Heteropyxis natalensis, known as the Lavender tree, is indigenous to South Africa and is traditionally used for oral care. The ethanolic extract, of the leaves and twigs, of H. natalensis was investigated for antimicrobial activity against selected oral microorganisms. Actinomyces israelii was found to be the most sensitive oral microorganism to the extract, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.88 mg/ml and an MIC of 2.6 mg/ml against Streptococcus mutans. Five known compounds were identified from the ethanolic extract of H. natalensis. The compounds were identified as aurentiacin A (1), cardamomin (2), 5-hydroxy-7-methoxy-6-methylflavanone (3), quercetin (4) and 3,5,7-trihydroxyflavan (5). The MICs of the compounds 1 and 4 were found to be 0.06 mg/ml and 1 mg/ml, respectively, against A. israelii. The cytotoxicity, acute and sub-acute toxicity in pre-clinical studies were also determined for H. natalensis. The extract showed moderate cytotoxicity (35.56 ± 0.16 μg/ml) on human monocyte cells. The acute and sub-acute toxicity analysis of H. natalensis indicated the NOEL (no-observed-effect level) at 200 mg/kg. Interleukin-8 (IL-8) is a chemokine that stimulates the recruitment of leukocytes. A significant reduction of IL-8 production by macrophage cells was observed when exposed to the extract of H. natalensis. It is possible that H. natalensis can prevent excessive tissue damage in periodontal diseases through its reduction of inflammation. Enzymatic bioanalysis of lactic and acetic acid production from Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus paracasei was done. A reduction in the acid production from each bacterium was observed on exposure to the extract of H. natalensis. Consequently, this increased the pH, which could possibly reduce the demineralization of enamel which may help prevent the formation of dental caries. In addition the extract may be considered for preventing periodontal diseases.

Antimicrobial Potential of Plant Extracts and Chemical Fractions of Sideroxylon obtusifolium (Roem. & Schult.) T.D. Penn on Oral Microorganisms

AIM

The aim of this study is to evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial activity of plant extracts and chemical fractions of Sideroxylon obtusifolium T.D. Penn on Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus oralis, Streptococcus salivarius, Streptococcus parasanguinis, and Candida albicans as well as to identify the chemical classes found in the bioactive extracts possessing better activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Freeze-dried hydroalcoholic extracts of the bark and leaves (LC and LF respectively) and ethanol extracts of bark and leaves (EC and EF respectively) of S. obtusifolium were assessed for antimicrobial potential by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration, and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC). The tests were performed by microdilu-tion method (in triplicate) in three independent experiments. Phytochemical characterization was performed by quantification of total polyphenols, total flavonoids, and condensed tannins.

RESULTS

The EC extract presented weak antimicrobial potential on the growth of S. mutans (MIC = 1000 μg/mL); all extracts showed moderate inhibitory activity on the growth of C. albicans (MIC = 500 μg/mL). The dichloromethane and n-butanol fractions of LF extracts showed moderate growth inhibitory activity (MIC = 250 μg/mL) on C. albicans and fungicide potential (MFC/MIC = 2). The phytochemical characterization revealed a predominance of total polyphenols (EC = 29.23%; LC = 25.98%) and condensed tannins (LC = 38.84%; LF = 17.78%).

CONCLUSION

The dichloromethane and n-butanol fractions of S. obtusifolium LF extract showed antifungal activity against C. albicans, with the potential for bioprospection of phytocom-pounds for the treatment of periodontal fungal diseases caused by this microorganism. The effect may be related to phyto-chemical compounds from the polyphenol and condensed tannin classes.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Research for new oral microbial disease treatment alternatives in bioactive compounds from medicinal plants is of clinical relevance and scientific interest since many therapeutic antifungal agents do not obtain the effectiveness expected due to microbial resistance, or to adverse effects on human tissues.

Symbiosis with AMF and leaf Pi supply increases water deficit tolerance of woody species from seasonal dry tropical forest

In seasonal dry tropical forests, plants are subjected to severe water deficit, and the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) or inorganic phosphorus supply (P_i) can mitigate the effects of water deficit. This study aimed to assess the physiological performance of Poincianella pyramidalis subjected to water deficit in combination with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and leaf inorganic phosphorus (P_i) supply. The experiment was conducted in a factorial arrangement of 2 water levels (+H₂O and -H₂O), 2 AMF levels (+AMF and -AMF) and 2P_i levels (+P_i and -P_i). Leaf primary metabolism, dry shoot biomass and leaf mineral nutrients were evaluated. Inoculated AMF plants under well-watered and drought conditions had higher photosynthesis and higher shoot biomass. Under drought, AMF, P_i or AMF+P_i plants showed metabolic improvements in photosynthesis, leaf biochemistry and higher biomass compared to the plants under water deficit without AMF or P_i. After rehydration, those plants submitted to drought with AMF, P_i or AMF+P_i showed a faster recovery of photosynthesis compared to treatment under water deficit without AMF or P_i. However, plants under the drought condition with AMF showed a higher net photosynthesis rate. These findings suggest that AMF, P_i or AMF+P_i increase the drought tolerance in P. pyramidalis, and AMF associations under well-watered conditions increase shoot biomass and, under drought, promoted faster recovery of photosynthesis.

The Abortificient Effects of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Lawsonia Inermis on BALB/c Mice

INTRODUCTION

According to the traditional beliefs of certain cultures, Lawsonia inermis has been reported to cause the abortion or termination of an undesirable pregnancy. The present study was undertaken with the goal of studying the effect of Lawsonia inermis extract on abortion in pregnant BALB/c mice in 2013 in Shahrekord, Iran.

METHODS

This research study used an experimental methodology and was conducted in 2013 in Shahrekord, Iran. Forty female BALB/c mice (30-40 gm, 8-12 weeks old) were randomly assigned to 4 groups. One male mouse was included for each two female mice (1:2) and they were maintained in a protective cage habitat. Pregnancy of the mice was confirmed by means of a vaginal smear. The doses of 1 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg of the hydroalcoholic extract of Lawsonia inermis were injected intraperitoneally into pregnant mice beginning on the first day and continuing through the seventh day of pregnancy. The control group did not receive any treatment, but was left completely unadministered. On the eighteenth day of pregnancy, the uterine tubes of mice were removed. The subsequent embryonic absorption is considered to be an abortion. The data were analyzed using SPSS software version 22 using Fisher's exact test and the Kruskal-Wallis H tests.

RESULTS

Abortions were observed more often in the experimental groups (p< 0.01). The mean of the serum estrogen level was significantly higher in the case control groups (p< 0.01) and the mean of progesterone level was also significantly lower in the experimental groups (p< 0.01).

CONCLUSION

The use of Lawsonia inermis during pregnancy may cause abortion and therefore it should be considered as contraindication or use with caution.

Evaluation of the Interaction between the Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul.) LP Queiroz Extract and Antimicrobials Using Biological and Analytical Models

Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul.) LP Queiroz (Fabaceae) is an endemic tree of northeastern Brazil, occurring mainly in the Caatinga. Its medicinal use is widespread and is an important therapeutic option against diarrhea, dysentery, and respiratory and urinary infections, among other diseases. In this study we determined the chemical marker and evaluated the interaction between P. pyramidalis extract and a commercial antimicrobial through the use of biological and analytical models. To obtain the extract, an ethanol-water mixture (50:50 v/v) was used as solvent. It was nebulized in a spray dryer using colloidal silicon dioxide as a drying adjuvant. The extract (ENPp) was subjected to HPLC analysis to verify the presence of certain secondary metabolites. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of the extract against Gram-negative bacteria was determined by broth microdilution and the MIC of synthetic antimicrobial drugs in the presence and absence of the extract. The antioxidant activity of ENPp was evaluated by the DPPH method. The compatibility between the antimicrobial and the extract was evaluated by thermal analysis (TG/DTA). The acute toxicity of the extract was evaluated in vivo in rodents. The results indicate significant additive action of the extract on synthetic antibiotics, considerable antioxidant activity and absence of toxicity. This extract shows high potential for the development of formulations for antimicrobial therapy when used with a vegetable-active ingredient.

Fatty Acids Profile, Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Capacity in Elicited Callus of Thevetia peruviana (Pers.) K. Schum

The aim of this study was analyze the effect of jasmonic acid (JA) and abscisic acid (ABA) as elicitors on fatty acids profile (FAP), phenolic compounds (PC) and antioxidant capacity (AC) in callus of Thevetia peruviana. Schenk & Hildebrandt (SH) medium, supplemented with 2 mg/L 2, 4-dichlorophenoxyacetic (2, 4-D) and 0.5 mg/L kinetin (KIN) was used for callus induction. The effect of JA (50, 75 and 100 μM) and ABA (10, 55 and 100 μM) on FAP, PC and AC were analyzed using a response surface design. A maximum of 2.8 mg/g of TPC was obtained with 100 plus 10 µM JA and ABA, respectively, whereas AC maximum (2.17 μg/mL) was obtained with 75 plus 100 µM JA and ABA, respectively. The FAP was affected for JA but not for ABA. JA increased cis-9, cis-12-octadecadienoic acid and decreased dodecanoic acid. Eight fatty acids were identified by GC-MS analysis and cis-9-octadecenoic acid (18:1) was the principal fatty acid reaching 76 % in treatment with 50 μM JA plus 55 μM ABA. In conclusion, JA may be used in T. peruviana callus culture for obtain oil with different fatty acids profile.

Plants and other natural products used in the management of oral infections and improvement of oral health

Challenges of resistance to synthetic antimicrobials have opened new vistas in the search for natural products. This article rigorously reviews plants and other natural products used in oral health: Punica granatum L. (pomegranate), Matricaria recutita L. (chamomile), Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze (green tea), chewing sticks made from Diospyros mespiliformis Hochst. ex A.D.C., Diospyros lycioides Desf., and Salvadora persica L. (miswak), honey and propolis from the manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium J.R. Forst. & G. Forst.), rhein from Rheum rhabarbarum L. (rhubarb), dried fruits of Vitis vinifera L. (raisins), essential oils, probiotics and mushrooms. Further, the review highlights plants from Africa, Asia, Brazil, Mexico, Europe, and the Middle East. Some of the plants' antimicrobial properties and chemical principles have been elucidated. While the use of natural products for oral health is prominent in resource-poor settings, antimicrobial testing is mainly conducted in the following countries (in decreasing order of magnitude): India, South Africa, Brazil, Japan, France, Egypt, Iran, Mexico, Kenya, Switzerland, Nigeria, Australia, Uganda, and the United Kingdom. While the review exposes a dire gap for more studies on clinical efficacy and toxicity, the following emerging trend was noted: basic research on plants for oral health is mainly done in Brazil, Europe and Australia. Brazil, China, India and New Zealand generally conduct value addition of natural products for fortification of toothpastes. African countries focus on bioprospecting and primary production of raw plants and other natural products with antimicrobial efficacies. The Middle East and Egypt predominantly research on plants used as chewing sticks. More research and funding are needed in the field of natural products for oral health, especially in Africa where oral diseases are fuelled by human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS).

Natural Antimicrobials and Oral Microorganisms: A Systematic Review on Herbal Interventions for the Eradication of Multispecies Oral Biofilms

Oral diseases such as caries and periodontitis are mainly caused by microbial biofilms. Antibiotic therapy has reached its limits with regard to antimicrobial resistance, and new therapeutic measures utilizing natural phytochemicals are currently a focus of research. Hence, this systematic review provides a critical presentation of the antimicrobial effects of various medicinal herbs against in vitro, ex vivo, and in situ formed multispecies oral biofilms. Searches were performed in three English databases (PubMed, EMBASE, CAMbase) and the electronic archives of five German journals from the times of their establishment until October 10th, 2014, with the search terms “(plant extracts OR herbal extracts OR plant OR herb) AND (oral biofilm OR dental biofilm OR dental plaque OR oral disease OR dental disease).” The pooled data were assessed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines (PRISMA). Initially, 1848 articles were identified, out of which 585 full-text articles were screened, 149 articles were reevaluated for eligibility and finally, 14 articles met all inclusion criteria. The data of 14 reports disclosed enhanced antiadhesive and antibiofilm activity by the plant extracts obtained from Vitis vinifera, Pinus spp., Coffea canephora, Camellia sinensis, Vaccinium macrocarpon, Galla chinensis, Caesalpinia ferrea Martius, Psidium cattleianum, representative Brazilian plants and manuka honey. Overall, a positive correlation was revealed between herb-based therapies and elimination rates of all types of multispecies oral biofilms. In that context, integrating or even replacing conventional dental therapy protocols with herbal-inspired treatments can allow effective antimicrobial control of oral biofilms and thus, dental diseases.

Does the Presence of Sucrose in Pediatric Antibiotics Influence the Enamel Mineral Loss and the Streptococcus mutans Counts in Dental Biofilm?

The role of antibiotics containing sucrose on the formation of dental caries is still controversial. This study aimed to investigate the effect of two antibiotics (amoxicillin and potassium clavulanate suspension), with and without sucrose, on human dental hardness and Streptococcus mutans counts in dental biofilm. Primary tooth fragments (n=72) were coated with nail varnish leaving a window of 2.25 mm diameter. Specimens were fixed in 24-well polystyrene plates, containing BHI medium. S. mutans (clinical strains) represented the inoculum to form biofilm on the fragments for 24 h. Twelve fragments were separated for the initial count of microorganisms (baseline). The other fragments were divided into 4 groups (n=12) of treatment: G1 (Clavulin(r)), G2 (Betamox(r)), G3 (chlorhexidine 0.12%), G4 (sucrose 10%). All specimens had their self-control area (covered area). The cross-sectional microhardness (CSMH) was evaluated for each specimen. All the treated groups had a loss of hardness compared to their self-controls (p<0.05). Both drugs inhibited the S. mutans growth and promoted no CSMH difference among them. Both antibiotics eliminated all formed biofilm and did not cause mineral loss from the enamel, regardless the presence of sucrose in its formulation.

Determination of antibacterial activity of green coffee bean extract on periodontogenic bacteria like Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans: An in vitro study

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity of pure green coffee bean extract on periodonto pathogenic bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), Prevotella intermedia (Pi), Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC) were used to assess the antibacterial effect of pure green coffee bean extract against periodonto pathogenic bacteria by micro dilution method and culture method, respectively.

RESULTS

MIC values of Pg, Pi and Aa were 0.2 μg/ml whereas Fn showed sensitive at concentration of 3.125 μg/ml. MBC values mirrors the values same as that of MIC.

CONCLUSION

Antimicrobial activity of pure green coffee bean extract against Pg, Pi, Fn and Aa suggests that it could be recommended as an adjunct to mechanical therapy in the management of periodontal disease.

Synthesis and Antibacterial Activity of Alkylated Diamines and Amphiphilic Amides of Quinic Acid Derivatives

Different series of N-alkylated diamines and their derivatives condensed to quinic acid were synthesized and tested for antibacterial properties against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The lipophilic chain and carbohydrate moiety modulate the antibacterial activity and the compounds showed a structure-activity relationship. Overall, 11 compounds displayed better activity than chloramphenicol against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Monoalkylated amines 2a-h displayed an activity similar to that of ethambutol against Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

In vitro activity of Amazon plant extracts against Enterococcus faecalis

Previous studies analyzing 2,200 plant extracts indicated anti-enterococcal activity in 25 extracts obtained from Brazilian forests’ plants. In the present study, these extracts were subjected to microdilution broth assay (MDBA) and disk diffusion assay (DDA) using planktonic Enterococcus faecalis ATCC^® 29212™ and were submitted to phytochemical analysis in TLC and HPLC. Three extracts obtained from Ipomoea alba (MIC < 40 μg/mL), Diclinanona calycina (MIC ≤ 40 μg/mL) and Moronobea coccinea (40 < MIC < 80 μg/mL; MBC = 80 μg/mL) showed significant bactericidal activity in the MDBA and four extracts obtained from I. alba (14.04 ± 0.55 mm diameter) S. globulifera (14.43 ± 0.33 mm and 12.18 ± 0.28 mm diameter) and Connarus ruber var. ruber (13.13 ± 0.18 mm diameter) were active in DDA. Residues H₂O obtained from Psidium densicomum (mean of 16.78 mm diameter) and from Stryphnodendron pulcherrimum (mean of 15.97 mm diameter) have shown an improved antibacterial activity after fractionation if compared to that obtained from the respective crude extracts. Antioxidant activity was observed in some residues of the active extracts. TLC analysis showed that phenolic compounds are likely to be found in active extracts. Three molecules were isolated from S. globulifera and were identified by ¹³C NMR lupeol, α-amyrin and 3β-hydroxyglutin-5-ene. The present chemical and biological findings suggest that these extracts are a potential source of new anti-Enterococcus compounds to be introduced in endodontic therapy.

Plant species used in dental diseases: ethnopharmacology aspects and antimicrobial activity evaluation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ethnopharmacological surveys show that several plant species are used empirically by the population, in oral diseases. However, it is necessary to check the properties of these plant species.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate in vitro antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans from plant species selected in a previous ethnopharmacology study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An ethnopharmacological survey was conducted with users of a dental clinic school services, located in Sao Luis, Maranhão, Brazil, aiming to identify plant species used in oral diseases treatment. From the ethnopharmacological survey, species were selected for in vitro antimicrobial activity evaluation against Streptococcus mutans, by agar diffusion method and determination of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC).

RESULTS

Two hundred and seventy one people participated in the research: 55.7% reported the use of plants for medicinal purposes, 29.5% of which have knowledge and/or use plants for some type of oral disease. Thirty four species belonging to 24 (twenty four) botanical families were reported, being Aloe vera L., Anacardium occidentale L., Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi, Chenopodium ambrosioides L. and Punica granatum L. the most cited. The most commonly reported indications were healing after tooth extraction, followed by toothache, inflammation and bleeding gums., The determination of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) demonstrated that Punica granatum L., Psidium guajava L. and Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi showed similar activity to 0.12% chlorhexidine, used as positive control.

CONCLUSION

That result is important to follow up the study of these species in the search for new anticariogenic agents originated by plants.

Ethnobotanical study, antifungal activity, phytochemical screening and total phenolic content of Algerian Aristolochia longa

Aim:

Aristolochia longa (from the family Aristolochiaceae) is widely used in Algerian traditional medicine. Here, we document ethnomedicinal uses by local population of Mascara province (West Algeria) and we evaluate the antifungal activity, the phytochemical composition and total phenolic content of aqueous extract (decoction) of the roots of A. longa from Algeria.

Materials and Methods:

The ethnobotanical investigation was carried out in Mascara Province (West Algeria). Antifungal activity was assessed against Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Total phenolic content was measured using the Folin–Ciocalteu’s reagent.

Results:

Our results showed that A. longa is widely used to treat several ailments such as cancer (38%), skin infections (14%), and diabetes (11%). Crushed roots are commonly used (89%) mixed with honey, milk, water or other medicinal plants. A. longa aqueous extract induced growth inhibition of S. cerevisiae cells in a dose - and time - dependent manner. An effective suppression of S. cerevisiae (97.06% inhibition of proliferation) was obtained at the 500 µg/mL after 72 h. Results of the phytochemical screening revealed that A. longa aqueous extract contained various bioactive compounds, including polyphenols and flavonoids. Total phenolic content in A. longa aqueous extract was found to be 6.07 ± 0.12 mg (gallic acid equivalents)/g.

Conclusion:

A. longa may be considered as a promising source of new drugs for treating cancer and as a good antifungal agent.

Investigation on antibacterial and antioxidant activities, phenolic and flavonoid contents of some thai edible plants as an alternative for antibiotics

This study was aimed to examine the antibacterial and antioxidative properties of seven edible plants from Thailand to develop alternative antibiotics as feed additives. The plants include Citrus aurantifolia Swingle (Lime) fruits and its leaves, Sesbania grandiflora L. (Agati sesbania) leaves, Piper sarmentosum Roxb (Wild betal) leaves, Curcuma domestica Valeton (Turmeric) roots, Morinda citrifolia L. (Beach mulberry) leaves, Cassia siamea britt (Siamea cassia) leaves, and Cocos nucifera L. (Coconut) peels. The plants were extracted by methanol, n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, butanol and water. Antibacterial activities with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) were determined by agar diffusion assay against Escherichia coli, Burkholderia sp., Haemopilus somnus, Haemopilus parasuis, and Clostridium perfringens that were considered pathogenic strains in livestock infection. Methanol extracts of C. aurantifolia Swingle fruits and leaves showed the broadest spectrum of antibacterial activities except for C. perfringens. Butanol extract of S. grandiflora L. leaves showed the strongest activity against Burkholderia sp. with MIC, 135 μg/mL. P. sarmentosum Roxb leaves showed antibacterial activities against E. coli, Burkholderia sp. and H. parasuis. Ethyl acetate and water extracts from C. domesitca Valeton roots showed MIC of 306 μg/mL and 183 μg/mL, respectively against only C. perfringens. Antioxidative activity was determined by 2-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl photometric assay. The methanol extracts of C. aurantifolia Swingle fruits and P. sarmentosum Roxb leaves showed the highest antioxidant activity among all the extracts with 3.46 mg/mL and 2.70 mg/mL effective concentration 50% (EC₅₀) values, respectively. Total contents of phenolics and flavonoids were measured from the plant extracts. Methanol extracts of S. grandiflora L. and chloroform extracts of C. domestica Valeton were found to have the highest amount of total phenolics, 41.7 and 47.8 μg/mL, respectively. Flavonoid content of methanol extracts in S. grandiflora L. T was 22.5 μg/mL and the highest among plant extracts tested. These results indicated that C. aurantifolia Swingle, S. grandiflora L., P. sarmentosum Roxb, and C. domestica Valeton have antibacterial and antioxidant activities and can be used as alternative antibiotics or potential feed additives for the control of animal pathogenic bacteria.

Evaluation of the mutagenicity and antimutagenicity of Ziziphus joazeiro Mart. bark in the micronucleus assay

The aim of this study was to evaluate the mutagenicity (clastogenicity/aneugenicity) of a glycolic extract of Ziziphus joazeiro bark (GEZJ) by the micronucleus assay in mice bone marrow. Antimutagenic activity was also assessed using treatments associated with GEZJ and doxorubicin (DXR). Mice were evaluated 24–48 h after exposure to positive (N-nitroso-N-ethylurea, NEU - 50 mg.kg⁻¹ and DXR - 5 mg.kg⁻¹) and negative (150 mM NaCl) controls, as well as treatment with GEZJ (0.5–2 g.kg⁻¹), GEZJ (2 g.kg⁻¹) + NEU and GEZJ (2 g.kg⁻¹) + DXR. There were no significant differences in the frequencies of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes in mice treated with GEJZ and GEJZ + DXR compared to the negative controls, indicating that GEZJ was not mutagenic. Analysis of the polychromatic:normochromatic erythrocyte ratio revealed significant differences in the responses to doses of 0.5 g.kg⁻¹ and 1–2 g.kg⁻¹ and the positive control (NEU). These results indicated no systemic toxicity and moderate toxicity at lower and higher doses of GEZJ. The lack of mutagenicity and systemic toxicity in the antimutagenic assays, especially for treatment with GEZJ + DXR, suggested that phytochemical compounds in Z. joazeiro bark attenuated DXR-induced mutagenicity and the moderate systemic toxicity of a high dose of Z. joazeiro bark (2 g.kg⁻¹). Further studies on the genotoxicity of Z. joazeiro extracts are necessary to establish the possible health risk in humans and to determine the potential as a chemopreventive agent for therapeutic use.

Antimicrobial properties of Cocos nucifera (coconut) husk: An extrapolation to oral health

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Brushing the teeth with fibrous husk of Cocos nucifera (coconut) is a common oral hygiene practice among people of rural areas of South India. However, the probable antimicrobial properties of this plant material against common oral pathogens have not been proved scientifically. Therefore, the present study was designed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Alcoholic extract of the husk of Cocos nucifera was prepared and the antimicrobial properties against common oral pathogens like cariogenic bacteria, periodontal pathogens, and candidal organisms were performed by the Agar Well Diffusion Method. The results obtained were then subjected to statistical analysis using One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and the Tukey's Honestly Significant Difference (HSD).

RESULTS

The alcoholic extract of Cocos nucifera showed a significant concentration-dependent antimicrobial activity, expressed as a zone of inhibition with respect to all tested organisms except Actinomyces species. The inhibitory effect was more significant, with a majority of cariogenic organisms and Candida, with a zone of inhibition ranging from 4.6 mm to 16.3 mm. However, the effect was lesser with Cocos nucifera compared to chlorhexidine. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ranged from 50 mg/ml to 75 mg/ml.

CONCLUSION

Cocos nucifera has a significant inhibitory action against common oral pathogens, indicating the presence of highly effective antimicrobial compounds. Therefore, it is proved that its use can contribute to oral health to a great extent. Identification of these active compounds provides the scope for incorporating it into a modern oral care system, so as to control oral diseases.

Antiadherent activity of Schinus terebinthifolius and Croton urucurana extracts on in vitro biofilm formation of Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the antiadherent property of crude, methanol and acetate methanol extract fractions from Schinus terebinthifolius and Croton urucurana in hydroalcoholic (HA) and dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) solvents on in vitro biofilms formed by Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans strains.

DESIGN

The minimal concentration of adherence (MICA) was determined to evaluate the antiadherent potential of extracts on the in vitro biofilm formation. The extracts of plants were subjected to thin layer chromatography (TLC) in order to detect what class of compounds was responsible for the antiadherent activity. Data were estimated by analysis of variance (ANOVA) complemented by Tukey test level of significance set at 5%.

RESULTS

Both plants demonstrated inhibition of S. mutans and C. albicans on in vitro biofilm formation. The biofilms of C. albicans were more efficiently inhibited by the S. terebinthifolius fraction of acetate-methanol and methanol in hydroalcoholic solvents (p<0.05). The S. mutans biofilms adherence was best inhibited by the S. terebinthifolius crude extract and its methanolic fraction, both in hydroalcoholic solvent (p<0.05). TLC of crude extracts and fractions of S. terebinthifolius detected the presence of several active compounds, including phenolic compounds, anthraquinones, terpenoids, and alkaloids. C. urucurana extracts confirmed activity for both microorganisms (p<0.05). However, higher concentrations were needed to achieve antiadherent activity, mainly to inhibit in vitro biofilm formation of C. albicans.

CONCLUSION

The antiadherent potential of both plants on in vitro biofilms formed by C. albicans and S. mutans were confirmed, suggesting the importance of studies about these extracts for therapeutic prevention of oral diseases associated with oral biofilms.

Combination of extracts from Aristolochia cymbifera with streptomycin as a potential antibacterial drug

The appearance of new antibiotic-resistant bacteria is a societal problem that requires the development of new alternative treatments. Therefore, this work evaluated the antibacterial activity of ethanolic (EHI), dichloromethanic (EDI) and hexanic (EHE) extracts from Aristolochia cymbifera stems and the combination of these extracts with an antimicrobial drug to develop a new antibacterial therapy. The EDI, EHE and EHI extracts were obtained by maceration using three different solvents. The minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of these extracts were determined using the microdilution test to determine the antibacterial potential of these extracts and their combination with streptomycin against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Shigella flexneri. The extract dose leading to the cytotoxicity of 50% of the cells (CC50) was evaluated using mammalian cells MA104 and the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) colorimetric assay. The extracts had a MIC under 500 mg/L and a CC50 lower than 50 mg/L. The antibiotic/extract proportion influenced the antibacterial activity of the mixtures, and the proportion that optimized the antibacterial activity of streptomycin was a mixture that contained 75 percent of extract. This composition included less than 6.5 mg/L of extract and 2.5 mg/L of streptomycin and has potential as a new antibacterial therapy.

New trends in dentistry: plant extracts against Enterococcus faecalis. The efficacy compared to chlorhexidine

Enterococcus faecalis is an important pathogen associated with endodontic diseases, and its elimination and control are of paramount importance, as it represents one of the major causes of failure in the treatment of endodontic disease. Twenty-five plant extracts obtained from Brazilian forests were found to be effective against planktonic E. faecalis and were subjected to two traditional antibacterial assays, the microdilution broth assay (MDBA) and the disk diffusion assay (DDA), using chlorhexidine (CHX) as a control. Seven out of 25 extracts showed significant antibacterial activity and were tested in a biofilm assay, and three of these extracts were subjected to chemical fractionation. Residues were tested for their antibacterial activity, and the first chemical findings were described based on thin layer chromatography (TLC). Extracts obtained from Ipomoea alba, Symphonia globulifera and Moronobea coccinea showed significant bactericidal activity in the MDBA. The same I. alba and S. globulifera extracts, as well as the extract obtained from Connarus ruber var. ruber, showed significant activity in the DDA. RH2O obtained from Psidium densicomum and Stryphnodendron pulcherrimum showed better antibacterial activity compared to the respective crude extracts and CHX. TLC analysis showed that phenolic compounds and triterpenes represent the first findings of chemical groups that may occur in all species. The results of the present study include the discovery of six active extracts against planktonic E. faecalis and support further testing via assays involving biofilm formation, as well as the determination of the compounds' chemical profiles, as their activity was significantly better than that observed for CHX.