Characterization of bioactive compounds and ameliorative effects of Ceratonia siliqua leaf extract against CCl₄ induced hepatic oxidative damage and renal failure in rats

Exploring Cold plasma technology: Enhancements in Carob seed germination, phytochemical Composition, and antioxidant activity

The cultivation of carob tree does not need many climatic and ecological requirements. The main limit to its large-scale cultivation is the defects for propagation with seeds. Addressing this, our study evaluated the effect of cold plasma pretreatment on carob seed germination. Impressively, cold plasma showcased beneficial effects by significantly increasing water uptake in seeds (CS: 1.71 ± 0.59; PS/3.99 ± 1.56) and decreasing the contact angle from 80.7° to 57.9°, enhancing the seed surface's hydrophilicity. While the germination rate enhancement was subtle, the treatment presented an innovative route to modifying the seed's physiochemical properties. Specifically, storage proteins like albumin, globulin, and prolamin were notably reduced (Albumin (from 7.67 to 4.95 mg/g DW), Globulin (from 8.52 to 5.80 mg/g DW) and Prolamin (from 3.53 to 1.66 mg/g DW)). Additionally, there was a decline in the overall content of polyphenols (from 846.88 to 760.94 mg GAE/100g DW) and flavonoids (from 790.93 to 502.95 mg GAE/100g DW) and a decrease in the ferric reducing power (from 34.48 to 26.39 mg AAE/g DW). However, radical scavenging activity remained consistent. Intriguingly, FTIR-ATR spectral analysis post plasma treatment indicated oxidative alterations in the seed coat, marked by a distinctive intensity at 1732 cm⁻1. This investigation suggests that the application of eco-friendly technology could provide improvements in seed surface's hydrophilicity, but appropriate conditions could be chosen to increase germination efficiency.

Biological Activities of Ceratonia siliqua Pod and Seed Extracts: A Comparative Analysis of Two Cretan Cultivars

Ceratonia siliqua L., commonly known as the carob tree, appears in most Mediterranean countries, often cultivated for the collection of its fruits to be used as food for humans and animals. This study was aimed at the phytochemical characterization of two common Cretan C. siliqua cultivars and the biological evaluation of deseeded pod and seed extracts regarding their putative use in cosmetics. Gas and liquid chromatographic techniques were used to assess their essential oil, fatty acid, and carbohydrate profiles. Cell-free assays, including free-radical scavenging; the inhibition of tyrosinase and collagenase; the blocking of advanced glycation end product (AGE) formation; along with assays in human skin fibroblast cultures, i.e., reactive oxygen species suppression, glutathione stimulation, and protection from oxidative stress and from ultraviolet (UVB) radiation, were also used. Extracts from both cultivars were found to possess antioxidant capacity, tyrosinase- and collagenase-inhibitory activities, an ability to block glucose-induced AGEs, and in certain cases, UVB absorbance and photoprotective activities. Seed extracts were in general more active, while the use of 30% aqueous methanol seemed to be more efficient than n-hexane for extraction. Serial partition of the most active extracts resulted in fractions with enriched biological activities. These properties make Cretan carob extracts and their fractions suitable candidates for use in cosmetics.

Pharmacological bioactivity of Ceratonia siliqua pulp extract: in vitro screening and molecular docking analysis, implication of Keap-1/Nrf2/NF-ĸB pathway

Inflammation is interfaced with various metabolic disorders. Ceratonia siliqua (CS) has a higher pharmaceutical purpose. The research aimed to investigate the biofunction of CS pulp aqueous extract (CS-PAE) with an emphasis on its integrated computational approaches as opposed to different specific receptors contributing to inflammation. The extract was assessed for its chemical and phenolic components via GC-MS, LC-MS, HPLC, and total phenolic and flavonoid content. In vitro, bioactivities and molecular docking were analyzed. Findings indicate that CS-PAE demonstrated higher scavenging activities of nitric oxide, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical, superoxide anion, hydrogen peroxide, and anti-lipid peroxidation (IC₅₀ values were 5.29, 3.04, 0.63, 7.35 and 9.6 mg/dl, respectively). The extract revealed potent inhibition of RBCs hemolysis, acetylcholine esterase, monoamine oxidase-B, and α-glucosidase enzymes (IC₅₀ was 13.44, 9.31, 2.45, and 1.5 mg/dl, respectively). The extract exhibited a cytotoxic effect against prostate cancer Pc3, liver cancer HepG2, colon cancer Caco2, and lung cancer A549 cell lines. Moreover, CS-PAE owned higher antiviral activity against virus A and some bacteria. When contrasting data from molecular docking, it was reported that both apigenin-7-glucoside and rutin in CS-PAE have a good affinity toward the Keap-1/Nrf2/ NF-ĸB pathway. In conclusion, CS-PAE showed promise in therapeutic activity in metabolic conditions.

Antioxidant/protective effects of carob pod (Ceratonia siliqua L.) water extract against deltamethrin-induced oxidative stress/toxicity in zebrafish larvae

In our study, the antioxidant capacity of carob pods water extract (CPWE) against deltamethrin (DM)-induced oxidative stress, a widely used pesticide around the world, was investigated in vitro and in vivo in a zebrafish model. The in vitro antioxidant capacity of the obtained extract was evaluated with different methods using trolox, BHA and BHT standard antioxidants. For in vivo experiments, 4hpf zebrafish embryos were exposed to 10 ppb and 25 ppb DM for 120 h and the larvae were treated with 1-10 and 100 ppm CPWE for 4 h at 72th hours. According to the results obtained, it has been determined that the exposure of zebrafish to DM during the developmental period causes important body malformations, decrease in survival rate, reduction in eye size, shortening in body length and decrease in locomotor activity in the dark period. In addition, according to the results of whole-mount staining, it was determined that DM caused a significant increase in the amount of free oxygen radicals and apoptotic cells. It was also confirmed by metabolome analysis that CPWE application for 4 h reduced DM-induced toxicity and oxidative stress. As a result, it can be said that CPWE has an important antioxidant capacity in eliminating DM-induced oxidative stress.

Immunomodulatory effect of Linalool (Lin) against CCl4 -induced hepatotoxicity and oxidative damage in rats

The current study explored the hepatoprotective and immunomodulatory effects of Linalool (Lin) against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄ )-induced toxicity in mice. Four study groups (n = 8 each) were used: (1) a negative control group and (2) a toxicity control group (single dose of CCl₄ administered on day 14 as 1 mL/kg of CCL₄ in 1% olive oil). Intraperitoneally (i.p.)), and two experimental groups where mice were treated with either (3) Lin (25 mg/kg b.w., orally, daily for 15 days) or (4) pretreated with Lin (25 mg/kg b.w., orally, daily for 14 days) and intoxicated with CCl₄ (1 mL/kg of CCL₄ in 1% olive oil. i.p.) on day 14. The levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin 10 (IL-10), the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, and TGF-1β, and the histopathology of the liver were assessed. According to our findings, IL-10 concentrations were significantly increased in Lin-treated groups, while other cytokine levels were marked by a considerable decrease in the toxicity model group (CCl₄ -treated group). Histopathological examinations of liver tissues showed that the Lin-treated groups had an almost normal structure. The current findings showed that Lin could inhibit CCl₄ -induced liver injury in mice, which warrants further investigation of Lin as a potential protective and therapeutic agent against hepatotoxicity.

Metabolomics and chemometrics of seven aromatic plants: Carob, eucalyptus, laurel, mint, myrtle, rosemary and strawberry tree

INTRODUCTION

Arbutus unedo L. (strawberry tree), Ceratonia siliqua L. (carob), Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh. (eucalyptus), Laurus nobilis L. (laurel), Mentha aquatica L. (water mint), Myrtus communis L. (common myrtle), and Rosmarinus officinalis L. (rosemary) are aromatic plants from the Mediterranean region whose parts and preparations are used for their nutritional properties and health benefits.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate and compare the metabolites profile, total phenol content (TPC), and antioxidant activity of plant leaves for their future use. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used for metabolomics. Data comparison was performed by chemometrics.

METHODOLOGY

Polar and apolar extracts were analysed using untargeted GC-MS metabolomics followed by chemometrics (principal component analysis, heatmap correlation and dendrogram) to identify, quantify and compare the major organic compounds in the plants. Additionally, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy was used for the laurel polar extract to identify d-gluco-l-glycero-3-octulose whose presence was unclear from the GC-MS data. TPC and antioxidant assays were performed using classical methods (Folin-Ciocalteu, 2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)) and correlated to the phytochemical profiles.

RESULTS

Forty-three metabolites were identified including amino acids, organic acids, carbohydrates, phenols, polyols, fatty acids, and alkanes. Eight metabolites (d-fructose, d-glucose, d-mannose, gallic acid, quinic acid, myo-inositol, palmitic and stearic acids) were in common between all species. d-Gluco-l-glycero-3-octulose (37.29 ± 1.19%), d-pinitol (31.33 ± 5.12%), and arbutin (1.30 ± 0.44%,) were characteristic compounds of laurel, carob, and strawberry tree, respectively. Carob showed the highest values of TPC and antioxidant activity.

CONCLUSION

GC-MS metabolomics and chemometrics analyses are fast and useful methods to determine and compare the metabolomics profiling of aromatic plants of food and industrial interest.

Antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of novel heteropolysaccharide isolated from Lobularia maritima on CCl4-induced liver injury in rats

The aim of the present study was to investigate the extraction and the characterization of a novel heteropolysaccharide from Tunisian halophyte Lobularia maritima (LmPS). We were also interested in its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective effects on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver injury in rats. LmPS physicochemical properties were evaluated by thin-layer chromatography (TLC), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and UV absorption. According to TLC and HPLC results, LmPS was a heteropolysaccharide composed of glucose, galactose, and xylose. Its molecular weight was 130.62 kDa. This heteropolysaccharide was characterized by a significant antioxidant potential and was efficient against oxidative stress and CCL4-induced hepatotoxicity in rat Wistar models (n = 8) treated with a single dose of LmPS 250 mg/kg of body weight. This was evidenced by a significant increase in serum marker enzymes specially aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). The cytokines released after stimulation of rats with LmPS showed high anti-inflammatory profiles with an increased rate of interleukine-10 (IL-10) with 0.03 pg/mL compared to animals treated only with CCl4. On the contrary, we noticed a decrease of the other cytokines (tumor necrosis factor α: TNF-α, interleukine-6: IL-6, transforming growth factor beta 1: TGF-β1) with average concentration values of <0.2, 0.1, and 0.04 pg/mL, respectively. Besides, histopathological examinations revealed that CCl4 causes acute liver damage, characterized by extensive hepatocellular necrosis, vacuolization, and inflammatory cell infiltration, as well as DNA fragmentation. LmPS administration at a dose of 250 mg/kg resulted in a significant hepatoprotection, evidenced by a reduction of CCl4-induced oxidative damage for all tested markers. These findings eagerly confirmed that LmPS was effective in the protection against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity and genotoxicity. It, therefore, suggested a potential therapeutic use of this polysaccharide as an alternative medicine for patients with acute liver diseases.

Ethnobotanical, pharmacological, phytochemical, and clinical investigations on Moroccan medicinal plants traditionally used for the management of renal dysfunctions

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Renal disease is a significant public health concern that affects people all over the world. The main limitations of conventional therapy are the adverse reaction on human health and the expensive cost of drugs. Indeed, it is necessary to develop new therapeutic strategies that are less expensive and have fewer side effects. As a consequence of their natural compounds, medicinal plants can be used as an alternative therapy to cure various ailments including kidney diseases.

OBJECTIVE

of the study: This review paper has two principal goals: (1) to inventory and describe the plants and their ancestral use by Moroccan society to cure renal problems, (2) to link traditional use with scientific confirmations (preclinical and clinical).

METHODS

To analyze pharmacological effects, phytochemical, and clinical trials of plants, selected for renal therapy, a bibliographical search was undertaken by examining ethnobotanical investigations conducted in Morocco between 1991 and 2019 and consulting peer-reviewed papers from all over the world.

RESULTS

Approximately 290 plant species, spanning 81 families and 218 genera have been reported as being utilized by Moroccans to manage renal illness. The most frequently mentioned species in Morocco were Herniaria hirsuta subsp. cinerea (DC.), Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Fuss and Rosmarinus officinalis L. The leaves were the most frequently used plant parts, followed by the whole plant. Decoction and infusion were the most popular methods of preparation. A record of 71 plant species was studied in vitro and/or in vivo for their therapeutic efficacy against kidney disorders, including 10 plants attempting to make it to the clinical stage. Twenty compounds obtained from 15 plants have been studied for the treatment of kidney diseases.

CONCLUSION

Medicinal herbs could be a credible alternative therapy for renal illness. However, additional controlled trials are required to confirm their efficiency in patients with kidney failure. Overall, this work could be used as a database for future exploration.

Protective effect of Sophora pachycarpa seed extract on carbon tetrachloride-induced toxicity in rats

The aim of the present study was to investigate the protective effect of the Sophora pachycarpa (S. pachycarpa) seed extract against carbon tetrachloride-induced toxicity on body organs, blood, and biochemical factors. In this investigation, 40 male Wistar rats weighing 200–250 g were randomly divided into 5 groups: group I was used as control, group II received carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) (IP, 1 mL/kg) on day 21, group III and group IV received S. pachycarpa seed extract at doses of 150 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg, respectively for 21 days by oral gavage and CCl₄ on day 21, group V received silymarin (300 mg/kg) for 21 days by oral gavage and CCl₄ on day 21. CCl₄ showed an increase of serum renal and hepatic markers creatinine, urea, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and uric acid, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Also, it significantly increased MDA level, and decreased CAT, FRAP, GSH, and SOD in the liver and kidney tissues. These changes and also hematological and histopathological alterations were significantly ameliorated by S. pachycarpa seed extract before CCl₄ administration. In conclusion, the data obtained in our investigation confirm the protective effect of S. pachycarpa against acute exposure to CCl₄-induced organ toxicity in rats.

Hepatoprotective Effect of Carob Pulp Flour (Ceratonia siliqua L.) Extract Obtained by Optimized Microwave-Assisted Extraction

To examine antioxidant capacity and the hepatoprotective effect of carob pulp flour, microwave-assisted extraction was performed. The influence of ethanol concentration (0–40% w/w), extraction time (5–25 min) and irradiation power (400–800 W) on DPPH, FRAP and ABTS antioxidant activity of carob pulp flour extract was evaluated. The strongest influence was that of the ethanol concentration, followed by extraction time. Optimal process parameters for maximizing total antioxidant activity were determined, using response surface methodology: ethanol concentration 40%, time 25 min and power 800 W. Carob extract obtained at optimal conditions (CE) was analyzed in vivo using a paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity model in mice. Treatment with CE attenuated the parameters of liver injury, especially aspartate and alanine aminotransferase activity, and prevented paracetamol-induced increase in malondialdehyde levels. Pretreatment with CE reversed the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase enzymes after the high dose of paracetamol in the liver. Hepatotoxicity induced using a toxic dose of paracetamol was also seen through histopathological alterations, which were significantly reduced in the groups treated with CE prior to paracetamol. Still, the number of Kupffer cells and macrophages did not differ among groups. Finally, pretreatment of mice with CE and paracetamol significantly decreased the expression of cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) in hepatocytes.

Inventory of Medicinal Plants Used Traditionally to Manage Kidney Diseases in North-Eastern Morocco: Ethnobotanical Fieldwork and Pharmacological Evidence

Kidney disease is one of the most common health problems and kidney failure can be fatal. It is one of the health disorders associated with extreme pain and discomfort in patients. In developing countries, such as Morocco where socioeconomic and sanitary conditions are precarious, medicinal plants are considered the primary source of medication. In the present work an ethnobotanical survey was conducted in a remote area of North-Eastern Morocco and we focused on (1) establishing a record of medicinal plants used traditionally by local people to treat kidney diseases and (2) correlate the obtained ethnomedical use with well-studied pharmacological evidence. From February 2018 to January2020, information was gathered from 488 informants using semi-structured questionnaires. The data were analyzed using three quantitative indices: The use value (UV), family use value (FUV), and informant consensus factor (ICF). A total of 121 plant species belonging to 57 botanical families were identified to treat kidney diseases. The families most represented were Asteraceae (14 species), followed by Lamiaceae (12 species) and Apiaceae (10 species). The most commonly used plant parts were leaves, followed by the whole plant and they were most commonly prepared by decoction and infusion. The highest value of the (UV) index was attributed to Herniaria hirsuta L. (UV = 0.16), and the highest family use value (FUV) was assigned to Caryophyllaceae with (FUV = 0.163). Regarding the informant consensus factor (ICF), this index's highest values were recorded for kidney stones (ICF = 0.72). The use of 45% of the selected plants were validated based on literature review. This study helped document and preserve crucial traditional plant knowledge of 121 plant species used to treat kidney problems that can be used in the search for new biologically active compounds through more upcoming pharmacological studies.

Physico-Chemical and Phytochemical Characterization of Moroccan Wild Jujube "Zizyphus lotus (L.)" Fruit Crude Extract and Fractions

Wild jujube “Ziziphus lotus (L.) Desf.” belongs to the Rhamnaceae family and is a traditionally herbaceous medicinal plant. It is very common in arid and semi-arid regions and is currently used for its antidiabetic, sedative, analgesic, anti-inflammatory and hypoglycemic activities. The aim of the present work was to characterize the physico-chemical properties and the phytochemical profile of wild jujube sample collected from the Guercif region, in order to determine the polyphenolic compounds and the antioxidant ability Analyses were carried out directly after the harvest for the determination of pH, refractive index, total soluble solid (°Brix), dry matter, sugar/acidity, total sugars, reducing sugars, as well as lipid and protein content. Results showed that the investigated fruit is acidic (pH 4.9 ± 0.23) and rich in sugars (80.2 g/100 g ± 3.81). The GC-MS analysis of the fruit revealed a number of volatile compounds, as many as 97, belonging to different chemical classes. The HPLC-DAD-ESI/MS analysis showed the presence of a total of 20 polyphenolic compounds in both EtOAc and MeOH-water extracts. Among them, p-Hydroxybenzoic acid was the most abundant in the EtOAc extract (185.68 µg/100 mg ± 0.5) whereas Quercetin 3-O-rhamnoside-7-O-glucoside was found in higher amounts in the MeOH-water extract (25.40 µg/100 mg ± 0.5). These components have medical interest, notably for human nutrition, as well as health benefits and therapeutic effects. Therefore, Moroccan jujube “Zizyphus lotus (L.)” fruit may have potential industrial applications for food formulations.

Determination of protective effect of carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) extract against cobalt(II) nitrate-induced toxicity

Cobalt (Co) is widely used in many industrial fields such as batteries and paints. Cobalt, a dangerous heavy metal, can be found in high concentrations in natural and human habitats. Although cobalt is an important micronutrient, it is toxic to living organisms when exposed to high amounts. Carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) is a tree native to The Mediterranean region. Carob bean, which has high nutritional and economic value, is used against cardiovascular and gastrointestinal diseases. In addition, the antioxidant properties of carob are gaining importance in recent years. In this study, the protective effects of carob extract against the toxicity of cobalt on Allium cepa L. were investigated. For this purpose, 150 mg/L and 300 mg/L carob extract solutions and 5.5 mg/kg cobalt solutions were applied to A. cepa L. bulbs. Root emergence, weight gain, root elongation, and mitotic index (MI) decreased, while the frequency of chromosomal abnormalities (CAs) and micronucleus (MN) increased as a result of Co application. Furthermore, Co treatment triggered a noticeable rise in the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymes as well as the malondialdehyde (MDA) amount and the abnormalities in the meristematic cells. On the other hand, applications of carob extracts mitigated cobalt-induced damages in a dose-dependent manner in all parameters. Therefore, the current study showed that the strong preventive potential of carob extract against phytotoxicity and genotoxicity is caused by Co in a model plant. The protective effects of carob extract on Co-induced toxicity were demonstrated for the first time in terms of reducing genotoxicity and oxidative stress response.

An updated review of protective effects of rosemary and its active constituents against natural and chemical toxicities

Natural and chemical toxic agents cause severe adverse effects on people's health in a variety of exposing ways. Herbal medications have taken into consideration as alternative safe treatments for toxicities. Rosmarinus officinalis also known as rosemary belongs to the Lamiaceae family. Rosemary and its constituents including carnosic acid, rosmarinic acid, and carnosol have a lot of benefits such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-mutagenic, anti-bacterial, antiviral, antinociceptive, and neuroprotective activities. In this literate review, we focused on the protective effects of rosemary and its main compounds against natural and chemical toxicities in both in vitro and in vivo studies. The protective effects of rosemary and its components are mostly mediated through different mechanisms such as the inhibition of oxidative stress, reduction of inflammatory mediators including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-17 (IL-17), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and nuclear factor ĸB (NF-ĸB) as well as the modulation of apoptosis and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways.

The Aqueous Extract from Ceratonia siliqua Leaves Protects Against 6-hydroxydopamine in Zebrafish: Understanding the Underlying Mechanism

Ceratonia siliqua L. is a Mediterranean medicinal plant traditionally cultivated for its ethnopharmacological benefits, such as antidiarrheal, antidiabetic, enhance acetylcholine, antioxidant, antiatherosclerotic, and for its possible anti-neurodegenerative potential. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the chemical composition, as well as the cognitive-enhancing, anxiolytic, and antioxidant activities of the aqueous extract from C. siliqua (CsAE) leaves against 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) zebrafish Parkinson’s disease (PD) model. CsAE (0.1, 0.3, and 1 mg/L) was administered by immersion to zebrafish (Danio rerio) for eight consecutive days and one hour before each behavioral test of each day, while 6-OHDA (250 µM) treatment was supplied one day before the novel tank diving test (NTT). Qualitative and quantitative analyses were performed by the ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) analysis. The memory performance was evaluated through the NTT and Y-maze tests. Additionally, the in vitro and in vivo antioxidant status and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was also assessed. Our finds demonstrated that CsAE presented positive antioxidant and anti-AChE activities, which contributed to the improvement of cognitive function in the 6-OHDA zebrafish PD model.

An in vitro study of the effect of carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) leaf extracts on gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata L.) leucocyte activities. Antioxidant, cytotoxic and bactericidal properties

Carob leaves, the main residues of the carob tree, were investigated as a renewable and abundant source of bioactive compounds for fish aquaculture. Aqueous and ethanolic extracts obtained from carob leaves were characterized in terms of biochemical composition, antiradical and cytotoxic effects and immunostimulant and antibacterial activities. The ethanolic extract showed higher levels of total phenolics, flavonoids and condensed tannins and higher antioxidant activity than the aqueous extract. No significant immunostimulant effects were observed on gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) head kidney leucocytes (viability, phagocytosis and respiratory burst activities and peroxidase content) after incubation for 24 h with different extracts. Furthermore, the ethanolic extracts used at 0.5, 0.75 and 1 mg mL^-1 and aqueous extracts at 1 g mL^-1 had a cytotoxic effect on PLHC-1 cells. When the bactericidal activity was tested against three fish pathogenic bacteria (Vibrio harveyi, Vibrio anguillarum and Photobacterium damselae) notable activity of the different extracts was detected against P. damselae at all three concentrations. A similar effect was demonstrated against V. haryeri when ethanolic extracts were used in the same range of concentrations. This work demonstrates interesting in vitro effects of carob leaf extracts and suggests it could be used as an alternative to chemical compounds with farmed fish. The concentration and nature of the extracts were very important in terms of any positive results.

The Effects of Carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) on Emotional Behavior Impairment and Metabolic Disorders Induced by Estrogen Deficiency in Rats

Carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) contains a wide variety of polyphenols with high antioxidant properties. In this study, we investigated the effects of aqueous extract of carob pods (AECP) on emotional behavior impairments and metabolic disorders in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Female Wistar rats were assigned to three groups: group 1, control non-OVX rats; group 2, OVX rats; and group 3, OVX rats orally treated with AECP (500 mg/kg) for15 days after ovariectomy. Elevated plus-maze and open-field tests were performed on the 26th and 27th post-ovariectomy days, respectively. Afterwards, the rats were anesthetized and their serums were collected for biochemical analysis. We found that AECP improved emotional behavior impairments revealed by elevated plus-maze and open-field tests in OVX rats. Moreover, ovariectomy significantly increased triglyceride, lactate dehydrogenase, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase levels in the serum. AECP administration significantly reversed ovariectomy-induced biochemical alterations. Thus, we suggest that the AECP may have an anxiolytic-like effect and prevent biochemical disorders associated with menopause or ovariectomy.

Essential oil from halophyte Lobularia maritima: protective effects against CCl4-induced hepatic oxidative damage in rats and inhibition of the production of proinflammatory gene expression by lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages

The present study evaluates the chemical profiling of the essential oil of a halophyte, L. maritima (LmEO), and its protective potential against CCl4-induced oxidative stress in rats. Forty compounds have been identified in LmEO. The major components are α-pinene (3.51%), benzyl alcohol (8.65%), linalool (22.43%), pulegone (3.33%), 1-phenyl butanone (7.33%), globulol (4.32%), γ-terpinene (6.15%), terpinen-4-ol (4.31%), α-terpineol (3.9%), ledol (3.59%), epi-α-cadinol (3.05%) and α-cadinol (4.91%). In comparison with the CCl4-intoxicated group, LmEO treatment resulted in decreased liver serum marker enzymes, decreased lipid peroxidation and increased antioxidant enzyme levels, with overall further amelioration of oxidative stress. The administration of LmEO to CCl4-treated rats at a dose of 250 mg kg-1 body weight significantly reduced the toxic effects and the oxidative stress on the liver, thus validating the traditional medicinal claim of this plant. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory activity of LmEO was evaluated in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated murine RAW 264.7 cells. Our oil could modulate the inflammatory mode of the macrophages by causing reduction in iNOS and COX2 enzymes as well as in IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α cytokine levels. These findings suggest that LmEO exerts anti-inflammatory effects by regulating the expression of inflammatory cytokines.

Antioxidant and hepato-preventive effect of Citrus aurantium extract against carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in rats and characterisation of its bioactive compounds by HPLC-MS

The objective of this study is to explore the preventive effects of ethyl acetate fraction from Citrus aurantium leaf extract (EACA), associated with its phytochemical content, against the toxic impacts of acute exposure to carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) in the liver of adult rats. HPLC analysis of ethyl acetate fraction from extract C. aurantium revealed eight compounds. Administration of a single dose of CCl₄ caused hepatoxicity as monitored by an increase in lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) and in protein carbonyl level but a decrease in antioxidant markers in the liver tissue. The pre-treatment with EACA; significantly prevented the increased plasma levels of hepatic markers and lipid levels induced by CCl₄ in rats. Furthermore, this fraction ameliorated biochemical and histological parameters as compared to CCl₄-treated group. Our results suggest that C. aurantium contains promising substances to counteract the CCl₄ intoxication and can be efficient in the prevention of hepatotoxicity complications.

Potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Citrus aurantium essential oil against carbon tetrachloride-mediated hepatotoxicity: A biochemical, molecular and histopathological changes in adult rats

The present study aimed (1) to investigate the chemical composition as well as the anti-inflammatory properties and in vitro antioxidant activity of Citrus aurantium peel essential oil (pEOCa) and (2) to evaluate its potential effect in vivo. The main results showed that the major components of pEOCa are Limonene and Linalool. Additionally, DPPH scavenging ability and β-carotene bleaching inhibition tests confirmed the antioxidant capacity of pEOCa. Our oil reduced the production of NO by LPS-stimulated RAW264,7 macrophages in a concentration-dependent. This inhibition occurred at a transcriptional level. pEOCa in CCl₄ treated rats alleviated hepatotoxicity as monitored by the improvement of hepatic oxidative stress biomarkers levels plasma biochemical parameters, and DNA molecule aspect. Furthermore, the mRNA gene expression of Cu-Zn SOD, CAT, and GPx increased under CCl₄ + pEOCa exposure to reach the same value to the control. Similarly, antioxidant activities of these three enzymes changed in accordance with the mRNA levels. These results were confirmed by the histological results. It seems obvious that the treatment with pEOCa prevented liver damage induced by CCl₄ , thus preventing the harmful effects of free radicals.

Phytochemical analysis and nephroprotective effect of cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) cladodes on sodium dichromate-induced kidney injury in rats

Environmental and occupational exposure to chromium compounds, especially hexavalent chromium, is widely recognized as potentially nephrotoxic in humans and animals. The present study aimed to assess the efficacy of cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) against sodium dichromate-induced nephrotoxicity, oxidative stress, and genotoxicity. Cactus cladodes extract (CCE) was phytochemically studied and tested in vitro for its potential antioxidant activities. Additionally, the preventive effect of CCE against sodium dichromate-induced renal dysfunction in a Wistar rat model (24 rats) was evaluated. For this purpose, CCE at a dose of 100 mg/kg was orally administered, followed by 10 mg/kg sodium dichromate (intraperitoneal injection). After 40 days of treatment, the rats were sacrificed, and the kidneys were excised for histological, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant enzyme analyses. The phenol, flavonoid, tannin, ascorbic acid, and carotenoid contents of CCE were considered to be important. Our analyses showed that 1 mL of CCE was equivalent to 982.5 ± 1.79 μg of gallic acid, 294.37 ± 0.84 μg of rutin, 234.78 ± 0.24 μg of catechin, 204.34 ± 1.53 μg of ascorbic acid, and 3.14 ± 0.51 μg of β-carotene. In vivo, pretreatment with CCE was found to provide significant protection against sodium dichromate-induced nephrotoxicity by inhibiting lipid peroxidation, preserving normal antioxidant activities, and protecting renal tissues from lesions and DNA damage. The nephroprotective potential of CCE against sodium dichromate toxicity might be due to its antioxidant properties.

Chemical composition and hepatoprotective effect of essential oil from Myrtus communis L. flowers against CCL4-induced acute hepatotoxicity in rats

Myrtus communis L. (Myrtle) is one of the most important aromatic and medicinal species from the Myrtaceae family. It is traditionally used as antiseptic, disinfectant drug and hypoglycemic agent. The aim of our study was to evaluate the protective effect of Myrtus communis essential oil (McEO) on CCl₄-induced hepatotoxicity in rat. Thirty two adult Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups of 8 each: (1) a control group; (2) was given a single dose of CCl₄ (1 mL kg⁻¹ in 1% olive oil. ip) on the 14^th day (3) were given during 15 days a daily i.p. injection of McEO at 250 mL kg⁻¹ b.w (4) a group was pretreated with McEO and intoxicated with CCl₄ on the 14^th day. The major components of McEO are α-pinene (35.20%), 1,8-cineole (17%), linalool (6.17%) and limonene (8.94%) which accounted for 67.31% of the whole oil. The antioxidant activity of McEO was evaluated using DPPH scavenging ability, β-carotene bleaching inhibition and hydroxyl radical-scavenging activity. Moreover, the effect of McEO (250 mg kg⁻¹ body weight BW) administrated for 14 consecutive days was evaluated in wistar rat. Administration of a single dose of CCl₄ caused hepatotoxicity as monitored by an increase in lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) as well in protein carbonyl level but decreased in antioxidant markers in the liver tissue. The McEO pre-treatment significantly prevented the increased plasma levels of hepatic markers and lipid levels induced by CCl₄ in rats. Furthermore, this fraction improved biochemical and histological parameters as compared to CCl₄-treated group. Our results suggest that M. communis contains promising substances to counteract the CCl₄ intoxication and which may be efficient in the prevention of hepatotoxicity complications.

Myrtus communis L. (Myrtle) is one of the most important aromatic and medicinal species from the Myrtaceae family.

Vitamin D3-induced hypercalcemia increases carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity through elevated oxidative stress in mice

The aim of this study was to determine whether calcium potentiates acute carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) -induced toxicity. Elevated calcium levels were induced in mice by pre-treatment with cholecalciferol (vitamin D3; V.D3), a compound that has previously been shown to induce hypercalcemia in human and animal models. As seen previously, mice injected with CCl₄ exhibited increased plasma levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and creatinine; transient body weight loss; and increased lipid peroxidation along with decreased total antioxidant power, glutathione, ATP, and NADPH. Pre-treatment of these animals with V.D3 caused further elevation of the values of these liver functional markers without altering kidney functional markers; continued weight loss; a lower lethal threshold dose of CCl₄; and enhanced effects on lipid peroxidation and total antioxidant power. In contrast, exposure to V.D3 alone had no effect on plasma markers of liver or kidney damage or on total antioxidant power or lipid peroxidation. The potentiating effect of V.D3 was positively correlated with elevation of hepatic calcium levels. Furthermore, direct injection of CaCl₂ also enhanced CCl₄-induced hepatic injury. Since CaCl₂ induced hypercalcemia transiently (within 3 h of injection), our results suggest that calcium enhances the CCl₄-induced hepatotoxicity at an early stage via potentiation of oxidative stress.

Potential antioxidant properties and hepatoprotective effects of Juniperus phoenicea berries against CCl4 induced hepatic damage in rats

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties of Juniperus phoenicea (J. phoenicea) berries against CCl₄-induced oxidative damage in rats.

METHODS

Hepatotoxicity was induced in albino Wistar rats by single dose of CCl₄ dissolved in olive oil (1 mL/kg BW, 1/1 in olive oil, i.p.). Aqueous extract of J. phoenicea berries (AEJP) was administered at the dose of 250 mg/kg/day by gavage for 12 days.

RESULTS

Obtained results revealed that administration of CCl₄ caused a significant increase in plasma ASAT, ALAT, ALP and LDH activities and total bilirubin concentration, compared to the control group. While, albumin and total protein concentration were significantly lower. Additionally, a significant decrease in the level of hepatic GSH, GPx and GST activities associated with a significant increase of MDA content in CCl₄ group than those of the control. However, the treatment of experimental rats with AEJP prevented these alterations and maintained the antioxidant status. The histopathological observations supported the biochemical evidences of hepatoprotection.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the present investigation indicate that J. Phoenicea possesses hepatoprotective activity and this effect was may be due to its antioxidant properties.

Suppressive Effect of Kampo Formula "Juzen-taiho-to" on Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Mice

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether pretreatment with the Japanese herbal medicine, "Juzen-taiho-to" (JTX), had an ameliorative effect on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatotoxicity through anorexia prevention. Mice injected with CCl4 exhibited severe anorexia. Moreover, CCl4 increased the plasma levels of hepatic injury markers (i.e., alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase), lipid peroxidation, and hepatic Ca(2+) levels. Pretreatment with JTX recovered the CCl4-induced anorexia. In addition, JTX pretreatment decreased CCl4-induced plasma levels of hepatic injury markers. Increased Ca(2+) is a known indicator of the final progression to hepatocyte death, and CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity is mainly caused by oxidative stress. The present study indicated CCl4-induced lipid peroxidation and hepatic Ca(2+) content decreased with JTX pretreatment. Our results suggest that JTX has potential to protect of CCl4-induced anorexia, and the modulation of oxidative stress.

Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Mice Is Prevented by Pretreatment with Zinc Sulfate

Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) is commonly used as a chemical inducer of experimental liver injury. In addition, many studies showed that CCl4 can induce kidney damage. In the current study, we evaluated the protective effect of zinc (Zn) against CCl4-induced nephrotoxicity. We hypothesized that this protective effect would result from the ability of Zn to serve as an inducer of metallothionein (MT), a known endogenous scavenger of free radicals. We administered Zn (as ZnSO4) 50 mg/kg subcutaneously once daily for 3 successive days prior to a single intraperitoneal administration of CCl4 4 g/kg in male ddY mice. Our results showed that Zn pretreatment significantly decreased creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels and reduced renal histopathological damage at 6 h post-CCl4 injection, observations consistent with enhanced antioxidative activity in the kidney. Moreover, kidney MT levels in the Zn+CCl4-treated group decreased by greater than 70% compared with levels in the Zn-alone group, implying that MT was consumed by CCl4-induced radicals. These findings suggest that prophylaxis with Zn protects mice from CCl4-induced acute nephrotoxicity, presumably by induction of MT, which in turn scavenges radicals induced by CCl4 exposure.

Kampo formula "Hochu-ekki-to" suppressed carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in mice

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate whether pretreatment with the Japanese herbal medicine "Hochu-ekki-to" (TJ-41) has an ameliorative effect on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatotoxicity through anorexia prevention.

METHODS

Twenty-four hours before CCl4 injection, TJ-41 or saline solution was intraperitoneally administered. Furthermore, 24 h after TJ-41 injection, mice were intraperitoneally administered 1.6 g/kg CCl4 or olive oil. Moreover, 24 h after CCl4/olive oil injection, mice from each group were euthanized and bled for plasma analysis.

RESULTS

Mice injected with CCl4 exhibited severe anorexia. Moreover, CCl4 increased the plasma levels of hepatic injury markers (i.e., alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase) as well as lipid peroxidation and hepatic Ca levels. Pretreatment with TJ-41 recovered the CCl4-induced anorexia and plasma levels of the hepatic injury markers. Moreover, CCl4-induced lipid peroxidation and hepatic Ca levels decreased upon TJ-41 pretreatment. In addition, hepatic metallothionein levels in the TJ-41 + CCl4-treated group were decreased by >50 % compared with the levels in the TJ-41-treated group, implying that metallothionein was consumed by CCl4-induced radicals.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that TJ-41 attenuates CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity, presumably by the induction of metallothionein, which in turn scavenges radicals induced by CCl4 exposure.

Sasa veitchii extract suppresses carbon tetrachloride-induced hepato- and nephrotoxicity in mice

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of a Sasa veitchii leaf extract (SE) on carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced hepato- and nephrotoxicity.

METHODS

Seven-week-old male ddy mice were orally administered SE or saline for seven days. Twenty-four hours after the last SE or saline administration, the mice were intraperitoneally injected with 3 g/kg CCl₄ or olive oil. The mice from each group were euthanized and bled for plasma analysis 24 h after the CCl₄/olive oil injection.

RESULTS

We found that pretreatment with SE completely abolished the CCl₄-induced mortality in the mice after 24 h. The mice pretreated with SE exhibited significantly decreased levels of functional markers, and reduced histological damage in both the liver and the kidney. Furthermore, we found that the SE pretreatment decreased lipid peroxidation and calcium levels in the liver. Although SE could not induce the free radical-scavenging metallothioneins, the plasma biological antioxidant power was significantly increased in the mice pretreated with SE.

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrate that prophylactic treatment with SE protects mice from CCl₄-induced lethal toxicity by decreasing oxidative stress in the liver and kidney, presumably by increasing biological antioxidant power.

Assessment in vitro of the genotoxicity, antigenotoxicity and antioxidant of Ceratonia siliqua L. extracts in murine leukaemia cells L1210 by comet assay

Genotoxicity of Ceratonia siliqua extracts, was investigated by assessing their capacity to induce nucleus DNA degradation of murine leukaemia cells L1210, using the "Comet assay". The ability of total oligomer flavonoids (TOF) and aqueous extracts to protect cell DNA against oxidative stress induced by H2O2, was performed by pre- co or post-treatment of cells with the before mentioned extracts for different periods preceding exposure to H2O2 stress. No significant genotoxic effect was detected at different exposure times, except at the lowest concentration of TOF extract (16.25 μg/ml). It appears that extracts decreased DNA damage, induced by H2O2. Both of TOF and aqueous extracts exhibited cellular antioxidant capacity, with EC50 values of respectively <16.25 and < 35 μg/ml, as well as, a protective capacity against lipidperoxidation inducing using L1210 cells line as a cellular model. MDA inhibition percentages reached 88.43% and 90.52% with respectively 35.5 μg/ml of TOF extract and 70 μg/ml of aqueous extract. Antioxidant properties of carob leaf extracts revealed by our study make a good antioxidant protection and thus a good candidate as food addition component.

Ursolic acid ameliorates carbon tetrachloride-induced oxidative DNA damage and inflammation in mouse kidney by inhibiting the STAT3 and NF-κB activities

Ursolic acid (UA), a common pentacyclic triterpenoid compound, has been reported to have many benefits and medicinal properties. However, its protective effects against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced injury in kidneys are not yet clear. In the current report, we investigated whether UA inhibited the oxidative stress and inflammation in the kidneys of CCl4 treated mice. Male ICR mice were injected with CCl4 with or without UA co-administration (25 and 50mg/kg intragastrically once daily) for six weeks. Our data showed that UA significantly prevented CCl4-induced nephrotoxicity in a dose-dependent manner, indicated by both diagnostic indicators of kidney damage and histopathological analysis. Moreover, CCl4-induced profound elevation of ROS and oxidative stress, as evidenced by the increase of lipid peroxidation level and the depletion of the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) level in the kidney, was suppressed by treatment with UA. UA also decreased 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (one product of oxidative DNA damage) levels. Furthermore, protein expression by Western blot analysis showed that UA significantly decreased production of pro-inflammatory markers including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-17 (IL-17) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in CCl4-treated mouse kidney. In exploring the underlying mechanisms of UA action, we found that UA increased the phosphorylation of transcription 3 (STAT3), which in turn activated the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappaB) and the inflammatory cytokines in the kidneys. In conclusion, these results suggested that the inhibition of CCl4-induced inflammation by UA is due at least in part to its anti-oxidant activity and its ability to modulate the STAT3 and NF-κB signaling pathways.

Extraction process optimization of polyphenols from Indian Citrus sinensis - as novel antiglycative agents in the management of diabetes mellitus

Background

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by increased blood glucose level. It has become an epidemic disease in the 21st century where, India leads the world with largest number of diabetic subjects. Non-enzymatic glycosylation (glycation) is severe form of diabetes, occurs between reducing sugar and proteins which results in the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that leads to the other complicated secondary disorders. In this context, Mangifera indica (Mango), Syzygium cumini (Jambul), Vitis vinifera (Grapes), Citrus sinensis (Orange), Artocarpus heterophyllus (Jackfruit), Manilkara zapota (Sapodilla) seeds were evaluated for their antiglyation activity. Attempts were made to isolate the polyphenols in the seeds that have recorded the maximum activity.

Methods

Different extraction methods (shake flask, centrifugation and pressurized hot water) using various extractants (organic solvents, hot water and pressurized hot water) were adopted to investigate the in vitro antiglycation activity. Central composite (CCD) design based Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was espoused to optimize the extraction process of polyphenols from the fruit seeds that have recorded poor antiglycation activity. The PTLC analysis was performed to isolate the polyphenols (Flavonoids and phenolic acids) and LC-PDA-MS analysis was done for structure prediction.

Results

Pressurized hot water extraction of Artocarpus heterophyllus (87.52%) and Citrus sinensis seeds (74.79%) was found to possess high and low antiglycation activity, respectively. The RSM mediated optimization process adopted for the Citrus sinensis seeds have revealed that 1:15 solvent ratio (hexane to heptane), 6 minutes and 1:20 solid to liquid ratio as the optimal conditions for the extraction of polyphenols with a maximum antiglycation activity (89.79%). The LC-PDA-MS analysis of preparative thin layer chromatography (PTLC) eluates of Artocarpus heterophyllus seed has showed the presence of compounds like quercetin (301.2), 4-hydroxy phenyl acetic acid (149.0), rhamnosyl-di-hexosyl quercetin sulphate (857.6), quercetin-3-O-xyloside (428.2), rutin (613.4), diosmetin (298.1) and luteolin (283.0).

Conclusion

The Artocarpus heterophyllus was observed to possess a significant antiglycation activity and the activity of Citrus sinensis was improved after the optimization process, which proved that both the seeds may be used as a traditional medicine in the management of chronic diabetes mellitus.

Appraisal of in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activity potential of cornelian cherry leaves

The antioxidant activity of the 80% methanolic extract of Cornus mas L. leaves (CMM) was evaluated by various methods both in vitro and in vivo. In vitro screening tests indicated that CMM had high antioxidant activity in terms of free radical scavenging and metal reducing activity. In vivo antioxidant activity studies in normal healthy rats demonstrated that the total antioxidant capacity of liver homogenates were increased, although no changes were observed in the activities of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase or in the level of lipid peroxidation. Studies on CCl4-treated rats also showed that CMM restored the activities of antioxidant enzymes, lowered the level of lipid peroxidation and elevated the total antioxidant capacities of both the total blood and liver homogenates of the animals. Further activity-guided fractionation studies led to the isolation of gallic acid, a well-known antioxidant, as one of the active components.