Comparative evaluation of antimicrobial and anti-gingivitis effect of Ocimum tenuiflorum Linn. gel with 0.2% chlorhexidine gel – Randomized controlled clinical trial

Dietary impact of Ocimum tenuiflorum leaf extract on the growth metrics and immune responses of shrimp (Penaeus monodon) against white spot syndrome virus (WSSV)

The present study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of Ocimum tenuiflorum extract against the white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) in black tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon) following oral administration in vivo. The methanol extract derived from the extraction was sprayed into feed at a concentration of 0.0 %, 0.05 % and 0.1 %. The feeding trial was continued for four weeks, following which the shrimps were injected with WSSV and mortality was checked two weeks after the trial. The findings revealed that shrimp fed with extract had significantly improved (p < 0.05) growth parameters (weight gain, specific growth rate) and feed utilization efficacy (less feed conversion ratio, high protein efficiency ratio) compared to the control group. The extract improved the immunity of shrimp significantly, as demonstrated by increased immunological parameters including total haemocyte count, prophenoloxidase activity, superoxide dismutase activity and up regulation of immune-related genes, which ultimately increased the disease resistance capability in Penaeus monodon against WSSV. Based on the experiment, 0.1 % extract had the highest growth and immune response against WSSV followed by Treatment 1 and control. Therefore, the extract of Ocimum tenuiflorum could be used as an immunostimulant with feed to boost the growth and resistance capacity of shrimp against WSSV as well as for the sustainable production of shrimp.

Synthesis and Characterization of Cassava Gum Hydrogel Associated with Chlorhexidine and Evaluation of Release and Antimicrobial Activity

Hydrogels from natural sources are attracting increasing interest due to their ability to protect biologically active molecules. Starch extracted from cassava tubers is a promising material for synthesizing these hydrogels. Copolymerization of cassava gum and incorporation of chlorhexidine digluconate (CLX) into the hydrogels is confirmed by changes in the crystallographic profile, as observed through X-ray diffraction, and a shift in the 1000 cm-1 band in the Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy spectrum. The differential scanning calorimetry reveals changes in the decomposition temperature of the synthesized hydrogels related to CLX volatility. Micrographs illustrate the material's porosity. Release tests indicate a constant linear release over 72 h, while antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans is satisfactory, with 100% effectiveness from 0.5% CLX and the formation of inhibition halos. Toxicity and biocompatibility studies show no cytotoxicity. The continuous release of chlorhexidine is promising for components of biomedical implants and applications as it can ensure antimicrobial action according to specific therapeutic needs.