In vitro antioxidant and anticancer activity of Leea indica leaf extracts on human prostate cancer cell lines

Insights into Metabolites Profiling and Pharmacological Investigation of Aconitum heterophyllum wall ex. Royle Stem through Experimental and Bioinformatics Techniques

The Aconitum genus is a leading source of a wide range of structurally diverse metabolites with significant pharmacological implications. The present study investigated metabolite profiling, pharmacological investigation, anticancer potential, and molecular docking analysis of the stem part of Aconitum heterophyllum (AHS). The metabolite profiling of the AHS extract was experimentally examined using LC-MS/MS-orbitrap in both modes (ESI+/ESI-) and GC-MS in EI mode. The in vitro MTT model was used to study the anticancer potential, while the in vivo animal model was used to study the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities. The MOE software was used for the molecular docking study. A total of 118 novel and previously known metabolites, among 44 metabolites (26 in ESI+ positive mode and 18 in ESI- negative mode) in the MeOH extract, while 74 metabolites (46 in ESI+ and 28 in ESI- mode) were identified in the n-hexane extract via LCMS/MS. The identified metabolites include 24 phenolic compounds, 18 alkaloids, 10 flavonoids, 24 terpenoids, 2 coumarins, 2 lignans, and 38 other fatty acids and organic compounds. The major bioactive metabolites identified were hordenine, hernagine, formononetin, chrysin, N-methylhernagine, guineesine, shogaol, kauralexin, colneleate, zerumbone, medicarpin, boldine, miraxinthin-v, and lariciresinol-4-O-glucoside. Furthermore, the GC-MS study helped in the identification of volatile and nonvolatile chemical constituents based on the mass spectrum and retention indices. The methanol extract significantly inhibited tumor progression in H9c2 and MDCK cancer cells with IC50 values of 186.39 and 199.63 μg/mL. In comparison, the positive control aconitine exhibited potent IC50 values (132.32 and 141.58 μg/mL) against H9c2 and MDCK cell lines. The anti-inflammatory (carrageenan-induced hind paw edema) and antinociceptive (acetic acid-induced writhing) effects were significantly dose-dependent, (p < 0.001) and (p < 0.05), respectively. In addition, a molecular docking study was conducted on identified ligands against the anti-inflammatory enzyme (COX-2) (PDB ID: 5JVZ) and the cancer enzyme ADAM10 (PDB ID: 6BDZ) which confirmed the anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects in an in silico model. Among all ligands, L2, L3, and L7 exhibit the most potent potential for inhibiting COX-2 inflammation with binding energies of -7.3424, -7.0427, and -8.3562 kcal/mol. Conversely, against ADAM10 cancer protein, ligands L1, L4, L6, and L7, with binding energies of -8.0650, -7.7276, -7.0454, and -7.2080 kcal/mol, demonstrated notable effectiveness. Overall, the identified metabolites revealed in this AHS research study hold promise for discovering novel possibilities in the disciplines of chemotaxonomy and pharmacology.

Determination of chemical components of the endemic species Allium turcicum L. plant extract by LC-MS/MS and evaluation of medicinal potentials

The Allium turcicum L. (Zuzubak) plant as a cultivated vegetable have various health benefits and consumed as a food. Due to the shortcoming evidence in literature and the importance of this plant in folk medicine, in the present study, for the first time, we evaluated the bioactive profile of components (using LC-MS/MS), cytotoxicity, anticancer, antioxidant, and antibacterial prospectives of Zuzubak methanol extract. Reported results show that the extract is rich in bioactive compounds and has anticancer activity with breast cancer cells (MCF-7), human prostate cancer cells (DU-145), and Human osteosarcoma cancer Cell lines of (IC50) in dose dependent manner in the concentration range of 31.25 μg/mL and 2000 μg/mL for 24 and 48 h. Western blotting results determined that the extract significantly suppressed the growth of U2OS, MCF-7, and DU-145 cancer cells by down expression of Ang-1 (angiogenic protein) and Beclin-1 (autophagy protein) and overexpression of Bax (a proapoptotic protein). The oxidative stress indices showed a reduction in RPE-1 and MCF-7 cells and an upsurge in U2OS and DU-145 cells. Additionally, the antimicrobial assay showed suppression of the growth of various pathogenic microorganisms in 4.00-8.00 μg/concentrations of Zuzubak extract using the microdilution method. The phytochemicals identified showed promising anticancer, antioxidant effects, and antimicrobial properties, representing a valuable herbal source for drug development studies.

UPLC-Q-TOF-MS profiling of Viola stocksii Boiss. and evaluation of aphrodisiac potential and risk factors associated with erectile dysfunction

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Viola stocksii Boiss. locally known as makhni or makhanr booti, is an important medicinal food plant with multiple therapeutic applications, including erectile dysfunction (ED). It is mixed with butter and used for boosting energy and sexual health in the subcontinent.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

This study was designed to evaluate the chemical composition, aphrodisiac potential and effect of V. stocksii on the risk factors associated with ED.

METHODOLOGY

The hydroethanolic extract of V. stocksii (HEEVS) was prepared through the microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) technique. The chemical composition was evaluated using preliminary phytochemical screening and UPLC-Q-TOF-MS analysis. Metals and minerals analysis was performed by an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The aphrodisiac activity of HEEVS was evaluated using an in vivo aphrodisiac model established in male albino rats and the effect on various sexual parameters such as mount, intromission, ejaculation frequencies and mount, intromission, ejaculation latencies, postejaculatory interval, penile reflexes and serum hormone concentration were analyzed. The effect of HEEVS on various risk factors associated with ED, including prostate cancer (PC), bacterial infections, diabetes and obesity, was evaluated using various in vitro assays. Moreover, four compounds were selected from the UPLC-Q-TOF-MS profile and evaluated for in silico computational analysis against phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) for possible interaction.

FINDINGS

The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of various secondary metabolites in HEEVS, while 58 compounds were tentatively identified in the UPLC-Q-TOF-MS analysis. Various important minerals and metals such as zinc, calcium, cadmium and magnesium were detected in the atomic absorption spectrometry analysis. The in vivo aphrodisiac evaluation showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the mount, intromission and ejaculation frequencies and a decrease in the mount, intromission latencies and post-ejaculatory intervals at a dose of 300 mg/kg. A marked (p < 0.05) increase was observed in the concentration of serum testosterone and luteinizing hormones in HEEVS treated animals with a significant increase in total penile reflexes. The extract displayed significant anti-prostate cancer activity and a potential antibacterial spectrum against E. coli and S. aureus, with MIC50 values of 215.72 μg/mL and 139.05 μg/mL, respectively. Similarly, HEEVS was found active towards pancreatic lipase (67.34 ± 1.03%), α-glucosidase (3.87 ± 0.54 mmol ACAE/g d.w.) and α-amylase (6.98 ± 1.63 mmol ACAE/g d.w.). The in silico docking study presented a potential interaction between the selected compounds and residues of the active site of PDE-5.

CONCLUSION

This report highlights the aphrodisiac potential of V. stocksii and provides experimental support for its traditional use in ED with an attenuative effect on the risk factors associated with ED. Moreover, the chemical composition displayed the presence of functional phytoconstituents and minerals in HEEVS and paves the way for the isolation of compounds with potent aphrodisiac activity.

Cytotoxic effect of Rotheca serrata on cancer cell lines MCF-7 and neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y

INTRODUCTION

Rotheca serrata (Lamiaceae), a highly medicinal plant is used as an antidote for snakebite and the plant possesses medicinal properties like hepatoprotective, antitussive, antioxidant, anticancer, neuro-protective, used in rheumatoid arthritis and is also a α-glucoside inhibitor. AIM OF THE STUDY: This work aimed to study the anticancerous effect of Rotheca serrata (root and leaf) on cancer cell lines MCF-7 (breast cancer cell line) and Neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This investigation was a preliminary one which supported the retrospective and safe use of plants as described in Ayurveda. Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium with High Glucose (DMEM-HG) for culturing MCF-7- Human Breast cancer cell line and Minimum essential Medium (MEM)+F12 medium for culturing SH-SY5Y- Homo sapiens bone marrow neuroblast were used. MTT assay measured the cell proliferation rate and conversely, when metabolic events lead to apoptosis or necrosis, the reduction in cell viability.

RESULTS

The results indicated that the Methanolic extract of Rotheca serrata (root and leaf) showed high anticancer activity. Different concentrations of plant extracts (25, 50, 100, 200, 400 µg/ml) were used to study the anticancerous activity, amongst which the significant results were obtained for 400 µg/ml concentration (both root & leaf). Effective anticancer activity against MCF - 7 breast cancer cells was shown in methanoilc extracts and were expressed as IC 50 values; in root (IC 50 value = 61.8259 ± 7.428 µg/ml) and in leaf (IC 50 value = 78.1497 ± 6.316 µg/ml). The MTT assay in case of neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cell lines revealed that 400 µg/ml concentration of leaf methanolic extract showed effective inhibition of cancer cells with IC 50 value 37.8462 ± 2.957 µg/ml as compared to IC 50 value of root methanolic extract which was 57.0895 ± 2.351 µg/ml.

CONCLUSION

R. serrata possess anticancer activity against breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) and neuroblastoma (SH-SY 5Y) cell lines. This study may to design plant-based drugs without side effects. Dosage compensation for specific type of cancer needs to be monitored in patients with 1st stage.

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

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

Evaluation of Biogenic Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized from Vegetable Waste

Introduction

Vegetable waste has numerous essential values and can be used for various purposes. Unfortunately, it is often discarded worldwide due to a lack of awareness regarding its nutritional and practical significance. Even the nutrient-rich peels of fruits and vegetables are commonly wasted, despite their numerous useful applications. Utilizing vegetable waste to produce silver nanoparticles through green synthesis is an advantageous, economical, and environmentally friendly method for producing valuable products while addressing waste management concerns. The main emphasis of this study was to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by using vegetable waste from Solanum tuberosum (potato) and Coriander sativum (coriander).

Methods

The stems of Coriander sativum and peels of Solanum tuberosum were used as extracts for the synthesis of AgNPs. The characterization of the synthesized AgNPs involved UV-spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The phytochemical analysis was performed to analyze antimicrobial, cytotoxic, antidiabetic, antitumor, antioxidant, alpha-amylase, and protein inhibition activities.

Results

The change in the color of the reaction mixture from yellowish green to brown following the addition of extracts to the silver nitrate solution confirmed nanoparticle synthesis. UV analysis has shown peaks in the range of 300-400nm. SEM confirmed the spherical and agglomerated morphology and size of 64nm for potato peel and 70nm for coriander stem. XRD confirmed the crystalline structure of silver nanoparticles. The phytochemical assays confirmed that silver nanoparticles had higher total phenolic and flavonoid contents. The biosynthesized silver nanoparticles showed promising antimicrobial, cytotoxic, antidiabetic, antitumor, and antioxidant properties and significant alpha-amylase and protein inhibition activities in comparison with the crude extracts.

Conclusion

The bioactivity of the plant suggests that it could be a suitable option for therapeutic purposes. This study demonstrates a potential method for sustainable nanoparticle synthesis and the therapeutic applications of AgNPs derived from vegetable waste. By utilizing the potential of vegetable waste, we can contribute to both environmental sustainability and the development of innovative, valuable products in fields such as medicine, agriculture, and materials science. These findings encourage further research on agricultural byproducts, promoting environmentally friendly and economically advantageous research and development efforts.

Isolation and anticancer activity of quercetin from Acalypha indica L. against breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231

In this study, the active components of the plant were carefully extracted and identified using three solvent systems. After extraction, we used solvent systems to further purify the main flavonoid chemical constituent. As a result of our analytical strategy, which included HPLC analysis, MS/MS spectroscopic analysis, and NMR data-based constructions, quercetin was determined to be the main chemical constituent. Our study suggests the potential therapeutic advantages of quercetin, a compound found in the leaves of Acalypha indica, for treating breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. Our comparison of Quercetin to the regularly prescribed medicine Doxorubicin shows that it has the capacity to inhibit MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Measurements of apoptosis and cell cycle phase showed this to be the case. Furthermore, a ladder that formed as a result of cellular damage brought on by ROS provided further proof of the drug's impact on DNA integrity. Notably, pro-apoptotic proteins displayed increased apoptosis activity in cells treated with quercetin. Given that it is extracted from plants and has less adverse effects than other compounds, quercetin is a viable option for further clinical study. The objective is to fight breast cancer, one of the most prevalent diseases in the world and a main cause of death for women. Thus, our research makes a significant addition to the ongoing search for potent, plant-based breast cancer treatments.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-023-03705-w.

Phytochemical profiling and cytotoxic potential of Arnebia nobilis root extracts against hepatocellular carcinoma using in-vitro and in-silico approaches

Hepatocellular carcinoma is the fifth most prevalent cancer worldwide. The emergence of drug resistance and other adverse effects in available anticancer options are challenging to explore natural sources. The current study was designed to decipher the Arnebia nobilis (A. nobilis) extracts for detecting phytochemicals, in-vitro evaluation of antioxidative and cytotoxic potentials, and in-silico prediction of potent anticancer compounds. The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, phenols, tannins, alkaloids, quinones, and cardiac glycosides, in the ethanol (ANE) and n-hexane (ANH) extracts of A. nobilis. ANH extract exhibited a better antioxidant potential to scavenge DPPH, nitric oxide and superoxide anion radicals than ANE extract, which showed better potential only against H2O2 radicals. In 24 h treatment, ANH extract revealed higher cytotoxicity (IC50 value: 22.77 µg/mL) than ANH extract (IC50 value: 46.74 µg/mL) on cancer (HepG2) cells without intoxicating the normal (BHK) cells using MTT assay. A better apoptotic potential was observed in ANH extract (49.10%) compared to ANE extract (41.35%) on HepG2 cells using the annexin V/PI method. GCMS analysis of ANH extract identified 35 phytocompounds, from which only 14 bioactive compounds were selected for molecular docking based on druggability criteria and toxicity filters. Among the five top scorers, deoxyshikonin exhibited the best binding affinities of - 7.2, - 9.2, - 7.2 and - 9.2 kcal/mol against TNF-α, TGF-βR1, Bcl-2 and iNOS, respectively, followed by ethyl cholate and 2-Methyl-6-(4-methylphenyl)hept-2-en-4-one along with their desirable ADMET properties. The phytochemicals of ANH extract could be used as a promising drug candidate for liver cancer after further validations.

Nyctanthes arbor-tristis alkaloids activates p53 independent cell death receptor and necroptosis pathways in HepG2 cells

Nyctanthes arbor-tristis is a traditional medicinal plant with potential anti-cancer properties. In this study, crude and alkaloid extracts were prepared from different parts of the plant, and their cytotoxicity was evaluated on four different cancer cell lines. The alkaloid extracts from the leaf and fruit showed promising results, with the HepG2 cell line exhibiting significant cytotoxicity. The promising extracts were further studied for their apoptotic potential using various methods, including DNA fragmentation, TUNEL, Caspase-3 activity, Giemsa, and Hoechst staining. Our results indicated that the fruit extract had the highest apoptotic potential, with clear nuclear condensation, fragmentation, and apoptotic bodies observed. We also investigated the alteration of the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio both at the mRNA and protein levels. Our results showed a significant upregulation of the Bax gene and downregulation of the Bcl-2 gene for the fruit alkaloid extract. This indicates that the phenomenon of cell death expression might be following a p53-independent extrinsic pathway and Bax-activated caspase-independent AIF-mediated necroptosis in the HepG2 cancer cell line. Overall, our findings suggest that Nyctanthes arbor-tristis has potential as a therapeutic option for cancer treatment. The alkaloid extracts from the leaf and fruit may hold promise as a source of bioactive compounds for further development into anti-cancer agents. Further studies are needed to explore the underlying mechanisms of their cytotoxic and apoptotic effects and to evaluate their safety and efficacy in animal models and clinical trials.

Halimeda gracilis (Kadarpassi chooranam) Phytochemical analysis and biological significance - a novel Siddha drug

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate biological activity and the phytochemical analysis of kadarpassi chooranam. Seaweeds are the marine macro algae, species belonging to Protista kingdom that has no true system, internal vascular systems, seeds and flowers. It has a lot of biological activity and has been proven to have a lot of medicinal benefits. Since time immemorial, their usage in traditional medicine has been recognized.

METHODS

Halimeda gracilis has been standardized as per siddha pharmacopoeia standard protocol guidelines and prepared kadarpassi Chooranam curtained for Phytochemical analysis (qualitative and quantitative) and carried out various pharmacological activity.

RESULTS

The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer actions of kadarpassi Chooranam have been associated to alkaloids, phenols, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, saponins, tannins, and diterpenes.

CONCLUSIONS

The Siddha medicine, kadarpassi chooranam has various phytochemical bioactive compounds, and because of its pharmacological activity can be a potential drug candidate for human use.

Biogenic Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Citrullus colocynthis for Potential Biomedical Applications

Green nanoparticle synthesis is considered the most efficient and safe nanoparticle synthesis method, both economically and environmentally. The current research was focused on synthesizing zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) from fruit and leaf extracts of Citrullus colocynthis. Four solvents (n-hexane, methanol, ethyl acetate, and aqueous) were used to prepare the extracts from both plant parts by maceration and extraction. Zinc acetate was used to synthesize the nanoparticles (NPs), and color change indicated the synthesis of ZnONPs. X-ray diffraction, UV spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy were used to study the ZnONPs. UV-visible spectroscopy revealed an absorbance peak in the 350-400 nm range. XRD patterns revealed the face-centered cubic structure of the ZnONPs. SEM confirmed a spherical morphology and a size range between 64 and 82 nm. Phytochemical assays confirmed that the complete flavonoid, phenolic, and alkaloid concentrations were higher in unrefined solvent extracts than in nanoparticles. Nanoparticles of C. colocynthis fruit aqueous extracts showed stronger antioxidant activity compared with the crude extracts. Strong antifungal activity was exhibited by the leaves, crude extracts, and nanoparticles of the n-hexane solvent. In a protein kinase inhibition assay, the maximum bald zone was revealed by nanoparticles of ethyl acetate extracts from leaves. The crude extracts and nanoparticles of leaves showed high cytotoxic activities of the n-hexane solvent, with LC₅₀ values of 42.08 and 46.35, respectively. Potential antidiabetic activity was shown by the n-hexane (93.42%) and aqueous (82.54%) nanoparticles of the fruit. The bioactivity of the plant showed that it is a good candidate for therapeutic use. The biosynthesized ZnONPs showed promising antimicrobial, cytotoxic, antidiabetic, and antioxidant properties. Additionally, the in vivo assessment of a nano-directed drug delivery system for future therapeutic use can be conducted based on this study.

The Formation of Self-Assembled Nanoparticles Loaded with Doxorubicin and d-Limonene for Cancer Therapy

Self-assembled nanoparticles present unique properties that have potential applications in the development of a successful drug delivery system. Doxorubicin (DOX) is an important anti-neoplastic anthracycline chemotherapeutic drug widely described. However, it suffers from serious dose-dependent cardiotoxicity. d-Limonene is a major constituent of numerous citrus oils that is considered a specific monoterpene against free radicals producing antioxidant activity. Herein, we aimed to design three types of self-assembled nanodelivery systems (nanoemulsion, niosomes, and polylactide nanoparticles) for loading both DOX and d-limonene to enhance the solubilization of d-limonene and provide antioxidant activity with excellent anticancer activity. As confirmed by dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy, the nanoparticles were prepared successfully with diameter sizes of 52, 180, and 257 nm for the DOX-loaded nanoemulsion, niosomes, and polylactide nanoparticles, respectively. The zeta potential values were above -30 mV in all cases, which confirms the formation of stable nanoparticles. The loading efficiency of DOX was the highest in the case of the DOX-loaded nanoemulsion (75.8%), followed by niosomes (62.8%), and the least was in the case of polylactide nanoparticles with a percentage of 50.2%. The in vitro release study of the DOX-loaded nanoparticles showed a sustained release profile of doxorubicin with the highest release in the case of DOX-loaded PDLLA nanoparticles. The kinetic release model for all developed nanoparticles was the Peppas-Sahlin model, demonstrating DOX release through Fickian diffusion phenomena. Moreover, all developed nanoparticles maintain the antioxidant activity of d-limonene. The cytotoxicity study of the DOX-loaded nanoparticles showed concentration-dependent anticancer activity with excellent anticancer activity in the case of the DOX-loaded nanoemulsion and polylactide nanoparticles. These nanoparticles will be further studied in vivo to prove the cardioprotective effect of d-limonene in combination with DOX.

S, Joy MN. Substituted benzocoumarin derivatives: synthesis, characterization, biological activities and molecular docking with ADME studies

Herein, an efficient and convenient method for the synthesis of 4-(substitutedphenyl)-1,2-dihydro-2-oxo-6-(2-oxo-2H-benzo[g]chromen-3-yl)pyridine-3-carbonitrile derivatives have been reported using ammonium acetate as catalyst. The structures of synthesized compounds were confirmed using FT-IR, 1H, 13C-NMR and LC-MS spectroscopic techniques. The synthesized compounds have been evaluated for antibacterial activity against bacterial strains by agar diffusion method at different concentrations. Further, all the targeted compounds were screened for anti-oxidant and anti-cancer studies by DPPH and MTT assay methods at different concentrations. Compound 4b displayed good antioxidant and anticancer (against MCF-7 cell line) activity. Further, the binding capability for the synthesized compounds (4a–j) was analyzed by molecular docking studies using human peroxiredoxin 5 (PDB ID: 1HD2) and P38 MAP kinase (PDB ID: 1OUK) protein. Further, the physicochemical properties were analysed from ADME studies respectively.

Applying spatio-chemical analysis to grassland ecosystems for the illustration of chemoscapes and creation of healthscapes

Grasslands are heterogeneous landscapes composed of a diversity of herbaceous and shrub vegetation that varies not only taxonomically, but biochemically in terms of primary and secondary compounds. Plant Secondary Compounds (PSC) have specific nutritional, medicinal, and prophylactic properties, to which benefits depend upon dosage, type, arrangements, and concentration that changes between and within plants across time and space. The knowledge of the plant content of PSC and their distribution in grazing environments would therefore contribute to the design and creation of healthier foodscapes for ruminants; in other words, healthscapes. Geographic information systems (GIS) have been used extensively for landscape visualization and assessment, through several spatial analysis techniques applied for the creation of virtual maps to add valuable information to a particular environment. Given the knowledge of plants and their composition, GIS emerges as a readily available and low-cost tool to assess and evaluate the distribution of plants with beneficial PSC in large and heterogeneous foodscapes. We present and propose for the very first time, the application and use of GIS to determine the spatial distribution of PSC rich plants with nutraceutical properties to illustrate, visualize, and generate healthscapes for grazing ruminants. We present healthscape maps created using botanical composition analyses and advanced image classification methods to illustrate the distribution of plants regarding their PSC and nutraceutical properties. Such maps add an extra dimension and perspective to plant chemical composition, enabling graziers to visualize in space and time centers of nutrition and prophylactics or medicines, contributing to advanced grazing management decisions toward more productive, sustainable, and healthy grazing systems. The valuable information behind the mapped PSC advances the understanding of the nutritional ecology of grazing environments and foodscapes, introducing a new dimension to the holistic management of pastoral livestock production systems.

In vitro Evaluation of Selective Cytotoxic Activity of Chaerophyllum macropodum Boiss. on Cultured Human SH-SY5Y Neuroblastoma Cells

Neuroblastoma is the most common solid tumor in children. New treatment approaches are needed because of the harmful side effects and costs of the methods used in the treatment of neuroblastoma. Medicinal and aromatic plants are important for new treatment approaches due to their minimal side effects and economic advantages. Therefore, the present study was carried out to examine the cytotoxic effect of Chaerophyllum macropodum extract on human neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) and fibroblast (HDFa) cell lines. 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and lactate dehydrogenase release (LDH) assays were used to determine the cytotoxic effect of C. macropodum. The extracts were analyzed for their phenolic content by HPLC-PDA. Major components were determined as 63.600% o-coumaric acid, 15.606% catechine hydrate, 8.713% rosmarinic acid, 4.376% clorogenic acid, and 3.972% salicylic acid. The obtained results from cytotoxicity testing revealed that C. macropodum exerted a significant cytotoxic effect on human neuroblastoma cells at all tested concentrations (p < 0.05). But it did not lead to any cytotoxic potential on human fibroblasts. As a result, the obtained data clearly revealed C. macropodum exerted a selective cytotoxic action on neuroblastoma cells for the first time.

Isolation of Potential Compound from the Leaves of Elytraria acaulis and Evaluating Its Therapeutic Properties Using In Vitro Studies Against Ovarian Cancer

The present study was designed to isolate a potential compound from the extracts of Elytraria acaulis (E. acaulis) for ovarian cancer. n-Hexane, ethyl acetate, chloroform, acetone and methanol extract were taken using the Soxhlet method. Thin layer, column chromatography, NMR and MASS studies were done for the isolation and structural characterization of the compound. Finally, the novel compound (Z)-3-(2-methyl-3-oxoprop-1-en-1-yl) phenyl heptanoate was identified. MTT assay, cell morphology and cell cycle analysis were done to evaluate the anticancer property of the compound. In the MTT assay, the percentage of the cell viability treated with the isolated compound was decreased while increasing the concentration of the compound. Cancer cells treated with the isolated compound showed distinct morphological changes when compared to the control untreated cells. In the cell cycle analysis, the isolated compound induced a significant increase in the percentage of cells in G0/G1 phase and a decrease in the percentage of cells in the S phase and G2-M phase of the PA 1 cell lines. The cell cycle arrest induced by the isolated compound may account for its antiproliferative capacity. Hence, the novel compound isolated from E. acaulis can be a potent candidate in the designing of anticancer drugs.

Comparative evaluation of biomedical and phytochemical applications of zinc nanoparticles by using Fagonia cretica extracts

The use of the green approach for nanoparticle synthesis yielded noticeable concern due to its eco-friendliness, cost-effectiveness, and reduced production of toxic chemicals. The current study was designed to formulate Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) by using Fagonia cretica extracts, evaluating its phytochemical content, and different biological activities. Four different solvents; methanol (MeOH), n-Hexane (n–H), aqueous (Aq), and ethyl acetate (EA), had been utilized in the extracting method. ZnO NPs were successfully synthesized and characterized by UV–vis spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The UV–vis spectra showed absorbance peaks between 350–400 nm range and SEM analysis revealed spherical morphology with particle sizes ranging from 65–80 nm. In phytochemical analysis, crude extracts exhibited the highest phytochemical content as they contain enriched secondary metabolites. n-hexane extract showed the highest phenolic contents while aqueous extracts showed the highest flavonoid content. Maximum free radicle scavenging activity was observed in NPs synthesized from ethyl-acetate extract with an IC₅₀ value of 35.10 µg/ml. Significant antibacterial activity was exhibited by NPs polar solvents against K. pneumonae, E. coli, and B. subtilis. Polar solvents showed considerable antifungal potential against A. flavus and F. solani. NPs synthesized from nH extract showed potential cytotoxic activity with an LC₅₀ value of 42.41 µg/ml against brine shrimps. A noteworthy antidiabetic activity was exhibited by nanoparticles synthesized from methanol extract i.e., 52.61 ± 0.36%. Significant bald zones were observed in nanoparticles synthesized from methanol extract rendering protein kinase inhibition. The present study highlights the significance of F. indica as a natural source for synthesizing functional nanoparticles with substantial antioxidant, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, protein kinase inhibitory, and antidiabetic properties.

Comparative Evaluation of Biomedical Applications of Zinc Nanoparticles Synthesized by Using Withania somnifera Plant Extracts

Green synthesis of metal nanoparticles is of great importance in the modern health care system. In this study, zinc nanoparticles (ZnONPs) were synthesized using leaf and root extracts of Withania somnifera using four different solvents. ZnONPs were characterized by UV-vis spectrophotometer with a range between 350–400 nm. Scanning electron microscope revealed spherical morphology with an overall size of 70–90 nm and XRD pattern confirmed the crystalline structure. The total flavonoids, phenolic, and alkaloid contents were significantly greater in the crude extracts as compared to ZnONPs. The highest scavenging activity was observed in ZnONPs from n-hexane and ethyl-acetate extracts of roots with IC₅₀ values of 27.36 µg/mL and 39.44 µg/mL, respectively. ZnONPs from methanol and aqueous extracts showed significant antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus subtilis while none of the extracts were found to have significant antifungal activity. Maximum cytotoxic activity was observed in ZnONPs synthesized from aqueous and n-hexane root extracts with LC₅₀ values of 9.36 µg/mL and 18.84 µg/mL, respectively. The highest antidiabetic potential was exhibited by ZnONPs from n-hexane leaf extracts, i.e., 47.67 ± 0.25%. Maximum protein kinase inhibitory potential was observed in ZnONPs of ethyl-acetate extract of roots with a bald zone of 12 mm. These results indicated that Withania somnifera-based ZnONPs showed significant biological activities compared to crude extracts. These findings can further be utilized for in-vivo analysis of nano-directed drug delivery systems.

High-throughput metabolomics reveals dysregulation of hydrophobic metabolomes in cancer cell lines by Eleusine indica

Eleusine indica, which is used in traditional medicine, exhibits antiproliferative activity against several cancer cell lines. However, metabolomic studies to evaluate the metabolite changes induced by E. indica in cancer cells are still lacking. The present study investigated the anticancer effects of a root fraction of E. indica (R-S5-C1-H1) on H1299, MCF-7, and SK-HEP-1 cell lines and analyzed metabolic changes in the treated cancer cells using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS). Cell metabolic activity assays demonstrated that the cell viability of the three cancer cell lines was significantly reduced following treatment with R-S5-C1-H1, with half-maximal inhibitory concentrations values of 12.95 µg/mL, 15.99 µg/mL, and 13.69 µg/mL at 72 h, respectively. Microscopy analysis using Hoechst 33342 and Annexin V fluorescent dyes revealed that cells treated with R-S5-C1-H1 underwent apoptotic cell death, while chemometric analysis suggested that apoptosis was triggered 48 h after treatment with R-S5-C1-H1. Deconvoluted cellular metabolomics revealed that hydrophobic metabolites were significantly altered, including triacylglycerols, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, sphingomyelin, and ceramide, suggesting that apoptosis induction by R-S5-C1-H1 potentially occurred through modulation of phospholipid synthesis and sphingolipid metabolism. These metabolomic profiling results provide new insights into the anticancer mechanisms of E. indica and facilitate the overall understanding of molecular events following therapeutic interventions.

Antidiabetic Properties and Toxicological Assessment of Antidesma celebicum Miq: Ethanolic Leaves Extract in Sprague-Dawley Rats

Antidesma is a genus of plants, and its several species are known to have antidiabetic properties. Leaves of Kayu Tuah (Antidesma celebicum Miq) have been proven to have the best α-glucosidase inhibition ability compared to other species in the Antidesma genus, as evidenced by the in vitro α-glucosidase inhibition test. However, no scientific studies have reported its antidiabetic properties and toxicity in vivo. Therefore, this research managed to verify the antidiabetic features and safety of ethanolic extract of A. celebicum leaves (EEAC) in Sprague-Dawley rats. Male rats (170-280 g) were induced diabetic with streptozotocin (35 mg/kg BW) and fed a high-fat diet comprising 24% fat, whereas control group rats were given a standard diet. Rats were treated with EEAC at 200 and 400 mg/kg BW doses for 28-days and 60 mg/kg BW acarbose for the control group. Determination of antidiabetic properties was done by analyzing lipid profiles as well as fasting blood glucose. After confirming the antidiabetic properties of EEAC, the toxicological assessment was determined using the fixed-dose method. General behavior changes, appearance, signs of toxicity, mortality, and body weight of animals were marked down during the observation period. When the treatment period ended, hematological, biochemical, and histological examinations of liver, kidneys, and heart sections were performed. The results confirmed that EEAC reduced fasting blood glucose levels and stepped forward lipid profiles of rats. Also, all animals survived, and no obvious destructive outcomes were noticeable during the study. As EEAC has promising results toward hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia and has been proven safe through toxicity tests, it can be concluded that EEAC has good potential to be further developed into antidiabetic drugs.

Bioactive compound from Lagerstroemia speciosa: activating apoptotic machinery in pancreatic cancer cells

The study was aimed at the identification of a potential anti-cancer compound from the leaf extract of Lagerstroemia speciosa, against pancreatic cancer cells (PANC-1). Out of different extracts tested, methanolic extract showed significant cytotoxicity at an IC₅₀ of 289.5 ± 0.03 µg/mL after 24 h (MTT assay). The safety of the extract was ascertained using normal pancreatic cells (hTERT-HPNE). Methanolic extract was able to induce apoptosis in 28.9 ± 0.01% of PANC-1 cells as determined by flow cytometry. RT-PCR analysis of PANC-1 cells also recorded an increase in the mRNA expression of pro-apoptotic genes i.e., Caspase-3 (12.82 folds), Rb (10 folds) and Bad (8.74 folds) after treatment. Expression of other pro-apoptotic genes such as Bax and TNF was also upregulated by 4.04 and 4.01 folds, respectively. However, the mRNA expression of anti-apoptotic genes, NF-κB, Cdk and Bcl-2 was found to be downregulated. The bioactive extract was then fractionated on preparative silica gel plates into 24 bands. Out of these, band fraction 9 exhibited significant cytotoxicity (IC₅₀ 219 ± 0.04 µg/mL) on the PANC-1 cells. The mass spectral (HPLC-MS) and FTIR analysis of the fraction indicated the bioactive compound to be a derivative of Diosgenin, which can be a possible candidate for cancer therapeutics in future.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-022-03155-w.

Root Extract of a Micropropagated Prunus africana Medicinal Plant Induced Apoptosis in Human Prostate Cancer Cells (PC-3) via Caspase-3 Activation

Prostate cancer is one of the major causes of cancer-related deaths among men globally. Medicinal plants have been explored as alternative treatment options. Herein, we assessed the in vitro cytotoxic effects of 70% ethanolic root extracts of six-month-old micropropagated Prunus africana (PIR) on PC-3 prostate cancer cells as an alternative to the traditionally used P. africana stem-bark extract (PWS) treatment. In vitro assays on PC-3 cells included annexin-V and propidium iodide staining, DAPI staining, and caspase-3 activity analysis through western blotting. PC-3 cells were exposed to PWS and PIR at different concentrations, and dose-dependent antiprostate cancer effects were observed. PC-3 cell viability was determined using CCK-8 assay, which yielded IC50 values of 52.30 and 82.40 μg/mL for PWS and PIR, respectively. Annexin-V and PI staining showed dose-dependent apoptosis of PC-3 cells. Significant (p < 0.001) percent of DAPI-stained apoptotic PC-3 cells were observed in PWS, PIR, and doxorubicin treatment compared with the negative control. PWS treatment substantially elevated cleaved caspase-3 levels in PC-3 cells compared with the PIR treatment. These results provide evidence for the antiprostate cancer potential of PIR and sets a basis for further research to enhance future utilization of roots of young micropropagated P. africana for prostate cancer treatment as an alternative to stem bark. Moreover, micropropagation approach may help provide the required raw materials and hence reduce the demand for P. africana from endangered wild population.

Regulation of the redox signaling and inflammation by Terminalia myriocarpa leaves and the predictive interactions of it's major metabolites with iNOS and NF-ĸB

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The present study was designed to investigate the regulation of the redox signaling and inflammation by ethanolic leaf extract of Terminalia myriocarpaVan Heurck & Müller (ETM), inspired by the reported antioxidant potential of the plant bark and the anti-edema effect of the same genus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HPLC-DAD dereplication study was conducted to detect the major polyphenolic secondary metabolites. In-vitro DPPH free radical scavenging assay, nitric oxide (NO) scavenging assay, Fe²⁺ ion chelating ability assay and reducing power assay were conducted to evaluate the antioxidant capacity. The molecular mechanism of anti-inflammation was investigated via assessing the NO and NF-ĸB inhibiting properties in different cell lines. In-vivo carrageenan and histamine-induced edema tests were conducted using established animal models. Pro-inflammatory proteins iNOS and NF-κB were docked against the major metabolites of ETM in the in-silico study.

RESULTS

HPLC dereplication analysis revealed the presence of considerable amount of ellagic acid, where methyl-(S)-flavogallonate was previously reported in T. myriocarpa. Significant antioxidant activity was found in every in- vitro redox assay conducted. NO was reduced in RAW 264.7 cells, showing 83.67 ± 4.18% inhibitory activity at the highest tested concentration. TNF-α induced NF-κB was also observed to be reduced in 293/NF-кB-luc cells with an inhibitory activity of 66.23 ± 0.81% at the highest dose tested. In-vivo carrageenan-induced edema test demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory activity (p < 0.05; p < 0.01) at both doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg with 60.10% highest reduction in rat paw volume. Using same doses, histamine-induced edema test exhibited mentionable anti-inflammatory potential (p < 0.05; p < 0.01) with 67.91% highest reduction in rat paw volume. Moreover, ellagic acid and methyl-(S)-flavogallonate showed significant binding affinity with iNOS (-8.5 and -8.7 Kcal/moL, respectively) and NF-κB (-7.3 and -7.3 Kcal/moL, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Mentionable basis was found on behalf of the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potentials of ETM which might be correlated with its NF-ĸB inhibiting properties.

In-vitro cytotoxicity in relation to chemotypic diversity in diploid and tetraploid populations of Gentiana kurroo Royle

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Gentiana kurroo is a multipurpose critically endangered medicinal herb prescribed as medicine in Ayurveda in India and exhibits various pharmacological properties including anti-cancer activity. The species is rich repository of pharmacologically active secondary metabolites together with secoiridoidal glycosides.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The study aimed to investigate the chemical diversity in different populations/cytotypes prevailing in G. kurroo to identify elite genetic stocks in terms of optimum accumulation/biosynthesis of desired metabolites and having higher in-vitro cytotoxicity potential in relation to chemotypic diversity.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The wild plants of the species were collected from different ranges of altitudes from the Kashmir Himalayas. For cytological evaluation, the standard meiotic analysis was performed. The standard LC-MS/MS technique was employed for phytochemical analysis based on different marker compounds viz. sweroside, swertiamarin, and gentiopicroside. Different tissues such as root-stock, aerial parts, and flowers were used for chemo-profiling. Further, the methanolic extracts of diploid and tetraploid cytotypes were assessed for cytotoxic activity by using MTT assay against four different human cancer cell lines.

RESULTS

The quantification of major bioactive compounds based on tissue- and location-specific comparison, as well as in-vitro cytotoxic potential among extant cytotypes, was evaluated. The comprehensive cytomorphological studies of the populations from NW Himalayas revealed the occurrence of different chromosomal races viz. n = 13, 26. The tetraploid cytotype was hitherto unreported. The tissue-specific chemo-profiling revealed relative dominance of different phytoconstituents in root-stock. There was a noticeable increase in the quantity of the analyzed compounds in relation to increasing ploidy status along the increasing altitudes. The MTT assay of methanolic extracts of diploid and tetraploid cytotypes displayed significant cytotoxicity potential in tetraploids. The root-stock extracts of tetraploids were highly active extracts with IC₅₀ value ranges from 5.65 to 8.53 μg/mL against HCT-116 colon cancer.

CONCLUSION

The chemical evaluation of major bioactive compounds in diverse cytotypes from different plant parts along different altitudes presented an appreciable variability in sweroside, swertiamarin, and gentiopicroside contents. Additionally, the concentrations of these phytoconstituents varied for cytotoxicity potential among different screened cytotypes. This quantitative difference of active bio-constituents was in correspondence with the growth inhibition percentage of different tested cancer cell lines. Thus, the present investigation strongly alludes towards a prognostic approach for the identification of elite cytotypes/chemotypes with significant pharmacological potential.

Anticancer Activity of Ipomoea purpurea Leaves Extracts in Monolayer and Three-Dimensional Cell Culture

Cancer is a leading cause of death and a vital health care challenge in the world. Hence, this work was conducted to determine the in vitro anticancer property and also the molecular mechanism of aqueous and organic extracts of Ipomoea purpurea leaves in three human cancer cell lines, including A-549 (human lung cancer), HepG-2 (human liver cancer), MDA-MB-231 (human breast cancer), and MCF-10A (breast normal cell line). In vitro cytotoxic potential of organic extracts, such as hexane, chloroform, ethyl-acetate, methanol, and aqueous extract was examined using a standard (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazole)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) MTT method in both monolayer two-dimensional (2D) and spheroids multicellular three-dimensional (3D) cultures. The MTT assay data showed that methanol and chloroform extracts of I. purpurea leaves had the antiproliferative effect on lung and breast cancer cells with IC₅₀ of 53.62 ± 0.07 and 124.5 ± 0.01 µg/mL, respectively. The results of further examinations, such as dual acridine orange/ethidium bromide, Annexin V-FITC/PI, and caspase-3 colorimetric assay, confirmed that methanol and chloroform extracts of I. purpurea as the most potent cytotoxic extracts might contain a variety of phytochemicals, promoting apoptosis in lung and breast cancer cells. The present research findings suggested that methanolic extract of I. purpurea leaves induced S-phase cell cycle arrest and intrinsic pathway of apoptosis in A-549 lung cancer cells. The study further showed that I. purpurea could be a helpful candidate for cancer treatment.

The Effect of Antinociceptive Flavonoid on Leea Indica Leaves for Orofacial Pain of Adult Zebra Fish (Danio Rerio)

Pain affects millions of people and is one of the most frequent complaints in the medical office. Pain involves various behavioral and emotional aspects. When it is persistent, it can become debilitating, impairing occupational performance, and producing negative impacts for the economy and public health costs. In general, commercial drugs can improve chronic pain patients' quality of life which can result in adverse reactions. Therefore, the search for new capsules as an opportunity remedy for ache is a challenge. Pain occurs due to stimuli from pain receptors called nociceptors. One pain known in the medical world is orofacial, defined as pain that occurs in soft and hard tissue in the head, face, and neck area. This study determined the antinociceptive effect of flavonoids isolated from the Leea Indica plant, on orofacial pain in zebrafish (Danio rerio) as a test model for behavior or locomotor activity. To study the orofacial pain of zebrafish induced with glutamate, this study was a true experiment. The parameter used was the number of times the fish crossed the line between the caudran from the glass petri dish during 0-5 minutes and 15-30 minutes. The Anova one-way test showed that there were differences in locomotors activity measured from 0-5 minutes and 15-30 minutes by giving flavonoids that could affect zebrafish locomotors activity or an increase in zebrafish locomotors activity. The antinociceptive effect of flavonoids was similar to tramadol. The flavonoids from Leea Indica had an antinociceptive effect on orofacial pain in adult zebrafish. The flavonoid dose of 2.5 mg/ml was a dose that had a significant difference in all treatment groups.

Anti-Inflammatory, Thrombolytic and Hair-Growth Promoting Activity of the n-Hexane Fraction of the Methanol Extract of Leea indica Leaves

The anti-inflammatory, thrombolytic, and hair growth-promoting activity of the n-hexane fraction from the methanol extract of Leea indica (NFLI) leaves was investigated. NFLI showed significant inhibition of hemolysis and protein denaturation, and exhibited a concentration-dependent thrombolytic activity. When applied topically to mice at concentrations of 10, 1, 0.1%, NFLI demonstrated a significant increase in average hair length (p < 0.001) compared with untreated animals. NFLI (1% concentration) exhibited the highest percentage of hair regrowth on day 7, 14 and 21 (81.24, 65.60, and 62.5%, respectively). An in silico study was further conducted to predict the binding affinity of phytochemicals previously reported in L. indica towards PGD₂ synthase (PDB ID: 2VD1), an enzyme that catalyses the isomerisation of prostaglandin H₂ to PGD₂ which is involved in hair loss. Phthalic acid, farnesol, n-tricosane, n-tetracosane, and n-heptacosane showed the best ligand efficiencies towards PGD₂ synthase and their intermolecular interactions were visualised using BIOVIA Discovery Studio Visualizer. Our results indicate that L. indica could represent a promising natural alternative to tackle alopecia.

Facile production of chlorophyllides using recombinant CrCLH1 and their cytotoxicity towards multidrug resistant breast cancer cell lines

The purity of chlorophylls plays one of the key role for the production of chlorophyllides. We have designed a facile method for chlorophyll purification by twice solvent extraction. Twice extraction causes the loss of chlorophylls, but the purity of total chlorophylls can be enhanced 182%. Then, the purified chlorophylls can be converted to relatively pure chlorophyllides facilely. The results show that higher purity of chlorophyllides could be obtained when purified chlorophylls (ethanol-hexane extract) was used as starting materials than that of crude chlorophylls (ethanol-only extract). In biocompatibility test, the results showed that the prepared chlorophyllides can be applied as biomaterials. When the prepared chlorophyllides were applied to anticancer tests, they were active both in MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 (multidrug resistant breast cancer cells) cell lines. In addition, the results suggested that the prepared chlorophyllides could be a potential candidate of combination therapy with doxorubicin to breast cancers.

Traditional uses and pharmacological activities of the genus leea and its phytochemicals: A review

Objectives

Plants have been used as traditional medicine (TM) since ancient times and TM remains an effective treatment option in the primary health care system in developing countries, including Bangladesh. There are several reasons to use plants as TM, which are cheaply and easily available and have a cultural heritage of their uses across generations. Leea, a genus of the Vitaceae family, possesses a large number of medicinal plants. In this review, the literature data on the traditional uses and pharmacological activities of Leea species and their phytochemicals are compiled. All the information was collected from the scientific databases.

Results

Leea species are endemic that have opened a promising research field to identify new leads against different diseases. Leea contains approximately 70 species, which are widely distributed throughout the Northern and Eastern Australia, South and Southeast Asia and parts of Africa. The Leea plants are used traditionally in different ailments such as fever, diarrhea, dysentery, joint pain, rheumatism, diabetes, bone fracture, body ache, wound, sexual disorders, and so on. The majority of the Leea species are the medicinal plants, which have anticancer, cytotoxic, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, cardiovascular, and CNS activity. Moreover, phytochemicals such as flavonoids, glycosides, phenols, terpenoids, steroids, volatile oils, alkaloids, proteins, quinine derivatives, tannins, saponins, and many other organic compounds have been reported in the Leea species (Leea indica, Leea macrophylla, Leea asiatica, Leea aequata, Leea rubra and Leea guineensis). The presence of phytochemicals and the in vitro and in vivo biological activities reported of these plants support their use as TM. Though original research articles related to the Leea genus are available, supportive reviews on phytochemicals and pharmacological activities remain scarce.

Conclusion

Leea species are used as TM in different ailments and have a real interest in their diverse pharmacological properties. Also, Leea species contain a remarkable number of bioactive compounds. This review has provided a comprehensive report on the plants of Leea genus to identify its therapeutic potential and future prospects for betterment research. However, chemical and biological investigations of several species of Leea genus remain unexplored. Therefore, further studies on these species are necessary, especially regarding pharmacological properties, isolation of the compounds and mechanism of action for the development of new drugs.

Troxerutin attenuates inflammatory response in lipopolysaccharide-induced sepsis in mice

Troxerutin (Tx), known as vitamin P₄ is a derivative of natural bioflavonoid rutin. Tx possesses different biological activities such as antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory. The current study was conducted to determine potential therapeutic effect of Tx in lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced sepsis in mice. In LPS-induced sepsis, the mice were treated intraperitoneally (ip) with Tx twice daily. Therapeutic effect was assessed by measuring serum level of cytokines, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Level of nitric oxide (NO), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), Myeloperoxidase (MPO) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) was measured. Expression of CD40 receptor on leucocytes was measured using flowcytometry. Splenocyte proliferation was evaluated using MTT assay. The effect of Tx on survival rate during administration of lethal dose of LPS was investigated. The results showed that Tx inhibited LPS induced NO production. Inflammatory pathways were suppressed by reduction of inflammatory cytokines production. Further, elevated CD40 expression of leucocytes and proliferation of splenocytes markedly reduced in Tx treated group. Antioxidant defense system was enhanced by increased activity of SOD and CAT and decreased level of MDA. MPO, ALT and LDH activity. Additionally, treatment with Tx significantly increased the mean survival time of mice compared with the LPS treated group. Histologically, Tx treatment decreased inflammatory cells infiltration and histopathologicl changes in the liver. Our findings showed that reduced inflammatory parameters, improved antioxidant activity, reduced histological lesions and increased survival rate. These findings suggest that Tx is an effective anti-inflammatory agent for the treatment of LPS-induced sepsis.

Flavonoids as Multi-Target Compounds: A Special Emphasis on their Potential as Chemo-adjuvants in Cancer Therapy

Flavonoids are low molecular weight, polyphenolic phytochemicals, obtained from secondary metabolism of various plant compounds. They have a spectrum of pharmacological efficacies, including potential anticancer efficacy. Natural flavonoids are present in fruits, vegetables, grains, bark, roots, stems, flowers, tea and wine. Flavonoids can attenuate or inhibit the initiation, promotion and progression of cancer by modulating various enzymes and receptors in diverse pathways that involve cellular proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, inflammation, angiogenesis and metastasis. Furthermore, in vitro, flavonoids have been shown to reverse multidrug resistance when used as chemo-adjuvants. Flavonoids (both natural and synthetic analogues) interact with several oncogenic targets through dependent and independent mechanisms to mediate their anticancer efficacy in different types of cancer cells.

Apigenin, flavonoid component isolated from Gentiana veitchiorum flower suppresses the oxidative stress through LDLR-LCAT signaling pathway

Flower of Gentiana veitchiorum has traditionally been used as an herbal medicine in Tibet for treatment of variola, respiratory infection, and pneumonia. However, the effective components contained in flower are not identified yet, and the underlying mechanisms for anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidative activities remain to be elucidated. Here, we first extracted the flavonoid mixture from G. veitchiorum flower. The mixture was then further isolated and the within compounds was identified through the high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). The results showed that apigenin (4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone) was the most abundant flavonoid in G. veitchiorum flower. We next examined the antioxidative activity of the extracted apigenin using the ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP), the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and the 2,2'-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonate) (ABTS) assays and found that a positive correlation between apigenin concentration and reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging rate. The biochemical assays further revealed that the levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were reduced, while the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was increased after apigenin treatment in hyperlipidemic rats. Moreover, we performed histopathological investigations and found that the lipidic deposition patterns were recovered and the amount of lipid vacuoles was significantly reduced in apigenin-treated hyperlipidemic rat liver. Western blotting assay showed that the expression of low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and lecithin-cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT) were up-regulated in the apigenin-treated samples. Overall, our results demonstrated that the apigenin isolated from G. veitchiorum flower exhibited radical scavenging activities, and reversed the high fat diet-induced oxidative damage in rats. Its antioxidative activities are probably achieved via LDLR-LCAT signaling pathway.

Antihypertensive power of Naringenin is mediated via attenuation of mineralocorticoid receptor (MCR)/ angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE)/ kidney injury molecule (Kim-1) signaling pathway

Hypertension is a condition with chronic elevation of blood pressure and a common preventable risk factor for cardiovascular disease with attendant global morbidity and mortality. The present study investigated the novel antihypertensive and neuroprotective effect of Naringenin on L-N^G-Nitro arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) induced hypertension together with possible molecular mechanism of action. Rats were divided into four groups. Rats in Group A were normotensive. The hypertensive group (Group B) received 40 mg/kg) of L-NAME alone while Groups C and D were concurrently administered Naringenin (50 mg/kg) or Lisinopril (10 mg/Kg) together with L-NAME orally for 3 weeks. Blood pressure parameters, markers of oxidative stress and renal damage were measured. The immunohistochemistry of kidney injury molecule 1, mineralocorticoid receptor and angiotensin converting enzyme were also determined. Results indicated significant increases in malondialdehyde, advanced oxidation protein products, protein carbonyl contents and decrease in serum nitric oxide bioavailability in hypertensive rats. Furthermore, there were significant increases in serum myeloperoxidase, urinary creatinine, albumin and blood urea nitrogen in hypertensive rats in comparison to hypertensive rats treated with either Naringenin or Lisinopril. Immunohistochemistry reveal significant expressions of kidney injury molecule 1, mineralocorticoid receptor and angiotensin converting enzyme in hypertensive rats. However, co-treatment with either Naringenin or Lisinopril mitigated both renal and neuronal oxidative stress, normalized blood pressure and lowered the expressions of kidney injury molecule 1, mineralocorticoid receptor and angiotensin converting enzyme. Collectively, Naringenin offered a novel antihypertensive and neuroprotective effect through down regulation of kidney injury molecule 1, mineralocorticoid receptor and angiotensin converting enzyme.

Methanolic Bark Extract of Abroma augusta (L.) Induces Apoptosis in EAC Cells through Altered Expression of Apoptosis Regulatory Genes

Abroma augusta (L.), one of the herbal medicinal plants, is widely used for treatment of various maladies. The present study was initiated to determine the antioxidant, hemolytic, cytotoxicity, and anticancer activities of methanolic extract from the bark of the plant. The phytochemical screening was done by analyzing different phytochemicals present in the extract. We observed the presence of alkaloids, steroids, terpenoids, flavonoids, reducing sugars, and glycosides in the bark extract which showed the highest antioxidant capacity. Antioxidant potential of the methanolic extract was evaluated in vitro by DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) scavenging assay method. This extract showed prominent scavenging activity with IC₅₀ value of 38.65 μg/ml. The hemolytic activity of the extract was evaluated at concentrations ranging from 250 to 1000 μg/ml. It was observed that the extract induced hemolysis percentage of 9.41% to 4.1%, which implies that the extract has no potent hemolytic activity. Cytotoxicity and anticancer activities were observed on Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) cells. In addition, the bark showed promising cytotoxicity with IC₅₀ value of 329.41 μg/ml, and the study indicated that the extract was capable of inhibiting EAC cell growth by 75.5% when administered at 100 mg/kg/day body weight intraperitoneally for five consecutive days to Swiss albino mice. Morphological change of apoptotic cell was determined by fluorescence and optical microscopy. DNA fragmentation is another marker for apoptosis, and the bark extract-treated EAC cells showed smeared and fragmented DNA bands. Apoptosis correlated well with the upregulation of p53 and Bax and also with the downregulation of NF-κB and Bcl-2. Furthermore, activity and interaction of two A. augusta compounds were tested through molecular docking simulation study. In conclusion, our results suggest that A. augusta bark has the potential to be considered as an anticancer agent.

A Review of Cytotoxic Plants of the Indian Subcontinent and a Broad-Spectrum Analysis of Their Bioactive Compounds

Cancer or uncontrolled cell proliferation is a major health issue worldwide and is the second leading cause of deaths globally. The high mortality rate and toxicity associated with cancer chemotherapy or radiation therapy have encouraged the investigation of complementary and alternative treatment methods, such as plant-based drugs. Moreover, over 60% of the anti-cancer drugs are molecules derived from plants or their synthetic derivatives. Therefore, in the present review, an attempt has been made to summarize the cytotoxic plants available in the Indian subcontinent along with a description of their bio-active components. The review covers 99 plants of 57 families as well as over 110 isolated bioactive cytotoxic compounds, amongst which at least 20 are new compounds. Among the reported phytoconstituents, artemisinin, lupeol, curcumin, and quercetin are under clinical trials, while brazilin, catechin, ursolic acid, β-sitosterol, and myricetin are under pharmacokinetic development. However, for the remaining compounds, there is little or no information available. Therefore, further investigations are warranted on these subcontinent medicinal plants as an important source of novel cytotoxic agents.

Triplaris gardneriana seeds extract exhibits in vitro anti-inflammatory properties in human neutrophils after oxidative treatment

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Triplaris gardneriana Wedd. (Polygonaceae family) is a plant species from Brazilian semiarid region which is used in local traditional medicine for the treatment of inflammatory conditions such as hemorrhoids.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In this study, the in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of different concentrations of ethanolic extract from T. gardneriana seeds (EETg) was performed in order to contribute to the knowledge about etnomedicinal use of this plant species.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The anti-inflammatory properties were evaluated through different approaches, such as in vitro protein anti-denaturation test, scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) inhibition in human neutrophils activated by phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA). Besides that, molecular docking was performed to provide new insights about the interaction between the major phenolic components in the plant extract and MPO.

RESULTS

EETg was characterized showing a total phenol content of 153.5 ± 6.3 μg gallic acid equivalent/mg extract, ability to remove hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) in a concentration-dependent manner and had a spectroscopic profile which suggests the presence of hydroxyl groups. EETg was able to prevent protein denaturation ranging from 40.17 to 75.09%. The extract, at 10 and 20 μg/mL, was able to modulate neutrophils pro-inflammatory functions, such as degranulation and burst respiratory. In both assays, the EETg had anti-inflammatory effect comparable to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Among the main phenolic compounds of EETg, quercitrin, quercetin and catechin showed the highest binding affinity in silico to MPO.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated, for the first time, that the anti-inflammatory effect of T. gardneriana seeds occurs due to its modulatory effect on human neutrophil degranulation and free-radical scavenging activity.

Nimbolide Represses the Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion of Bladder Carcinoma Cells via Chk2-Mediated G2/M Phase Cell Cycle Arrest, Altered Signaling Pathways, and Reduced Transcription Factors-Associated MMP-9 Expression

Nimbolide, an active chemical constituent of Azadirachta indica, reportedly has several physiological effects. Here, we assessed novel anticancer effects of nimbolide against bladder cancer EJ and 5637 cells. Nimbolide treatment inhibited the proliferation of both bladder cancer cell lines with an IC50 value of 3 μM. Treatment of cells with nimbolide induced G2/M phase cell cycle arrest via both Chk2-Cdc25C-Cdc2/cyclin B1-Wee1 pathway and Chk2-p21WAF1-Cdc2/cyclin B1-Wee1 pathway. Nimbolide increased JNK phosphorylation and decreased p38MAPK and AKT phosphorylation. Additionally, nimbolide impeded both wound healing migration and invasion abilities by suppressing matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity. Finally, nimbolide repressed the binding activity of NF-κB, Sp-1, and AP-1 motifs, which are key transcription factors for MMP-9 activity regulation. Overall, our study indicates that nimbolide is a potential chemotherapeutic agent for bladder cancer.

Phytochemical profiling, antioxidant and anticancer activities of Gastrocotyle hispida growing in Saudi Arabia

The present study aimed at isolation the phytocompounds from the aerial parts of Gastrocotyle hispida and to evaluate its antioxidant and anticancer potential using in vitro assay. Gastrocotyle hispida is belonging to the family Boraginaceae used as a refreshing drink like tea. The decoction of the leaves is diuretic and is used in the treatment of rheumatism. Phytochemical study of a methanol extract yielded five known compounds viz: β-sitosterol (GH-1), β-sitosterol 3-glucoside (GH-2), 1-O-β-glucopyranosyl-1,4-dihydroxy-2-prenylbenzene (GH-3), 6-Hydroxy-2,2-dimethyl-3-chrom (GH-4) and rosmarinic acid (GH-5). Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were calculated for the extract and fractions, the methanolic extract contained the highest content of total flavonoids (178 mg/g, expressed as quercetin equivalents) and total polyphenol (98.4 mg/g, expressed as gallic acid equivalent). Compounds were isolated by using column chromatography. In vitro, antioxidant activity of the extract and isolated compounds was investigated by DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging assays. The four different cell lines HepG2 (Liver), HEK-293 (Kidney) MCF-7 (Breast) and MDA-MB 231 (Breast) were used against the compounds. The isolated compounds showed dose-dependent free radical scavenging property in all tested models with the IC₅₀ values of 10.2 μg/mL rosmarinic acid (GH-5), 52.1 μg/mL β-sitosterol (GH-1) and 85 μg/mL for β-sitosterol 3-glucoside (GH-2). The β-sitosterol (GH-1) showed significant activity against HepG2 and HEK 293 cell lines. Rosmarinic acid (GH-5) possesses potent anticancer activity against breast cancer cells (MCF7) with the IC₅₀ value of 4.2 μg/mL. It can be concluded that Gastrocotyle hispida has potential antioxidant, anticancer activities and further used as an anticancer agent.

Bioactive compound from Aspergillus terreusDMTMGK004 synergistically contributes towards potential anti-pathogenicity

This study focused on the evaluation of fungal compound for their anti-pathogenic potential against respiratory pathogens. Soil samples were collected from various geographical regions in Madurai, fungal strain was isolated and identified as Aspergillus terreusDMTMGK004 (MGK004). Secondary metabolites were extracted and evaluated for antioxidant potential. It exhibited significantly high anti-proliferative property against gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS) cell lines. Antimicrobial activity against Gram positive (Streptococcus pneumoniae) and Gram negative (Klebsiella pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae) respiratory pathogens were analysed and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were determined. Furthermore, the time-killing assay illustrated that the metabolite eliminates 50% of the vegetative cells within few hours of the treatment. From the spectral data, the major functional groups present in the compound were determined as carbonyl group and phenolic hydroxyl group which contribute towards its bioactivity. The compound significantly depreciates the production of extracellular polysaccharides which results in the weakening of biofilm architecture and resistance towards serum killing and phagocytosis. It also induced cell membrane damage which leads to protein and nucleic acid leakage. Hence, the results of the present study could provide a better insinuation towards the formulation of new drug targeting respiratory pathogens. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: The ubiquitous fungi Aspergillus terreus is well known for its secondary metabolite production. The fungus was evaluated for production of antagonistic molecule to reduce the growth of infectious agents causing respiratory infections. It exhibited the biological means of antioxidant, anti-proliferative and anti-pathogenic compound production. The compound exhibits killing effect against respiratory pathogens within two hours. It induced cell membrane damage leading to protein and nucleic acid leakage. It significantly reduced the production of extracellular polysaccharides. The results provide needed information to design innovative strategies for targeting pathogenic factors of the respiratory pathogens instead of killing it precisely.

What Has Come out from Phytomedicines and Herbal Edibles for the Treatment of Cancer?

Several modern treatment strategies have been adopted to combat cancer with the aim of minimizing toxicity. Medicinal plant-based compounds with the potential to treat cancer have been widely studied in preclinical research and have elicited many innovations in cutting-edge clinical research. In parallel, researchers have eagerly tried to decrease the toxicity of current chemotherapeutic agents either by combining them with herbals or in using herbals alone. The aim of this article is to present an update of medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds, or mere changes in the bioactive compounds, along with herbal edibles, which display efficacy against diverse cancer cells and in anticancer therapy. It describes the basic mechanism(s) of action of phytochemicals used either alone or in combination therapy with other phytochemicals or herbal edibles. This review also highlights the remarkable synergistic effects that arise between certain herbals and chemotherapeutic agents used in oncology. The anticancer phytochemicals used in clinical research are also described; furthermore, we discuss our own experience related to semisynthetic derivatives, which are developed based on phytochemicals. Overall, this compilation is intended to facilitate research and development projects on phytopharmaceuticals for successful anticancer drug discovery.

Evaluation of Therapeutic Potential of Eugenol-A Natural Derivative of Syzygium aromaticum on Cervical Cancer

Background: The intendment of this study is to determine the pursuance in – vitro anticancer activity and cytotoxicity of Syzygium aromaticum against the human cervical cancer cell line (HeLa) compared to the normal cell lines. Apoptogenic properties of DCM extract of Eugenol was determined in this entire study. Materials and Methods: HeLa cell lines were cultured in DMEM medium and incubated with different concentration of DCM – Eugenol extract. MTT assay brought out the way to determine the cell viability and quantification was done with the optical absorbance at 570 nm and 620 nm as reference. Apoptotic cells were affirmed by dual staining using acridine orange bromide. Besides, the morphology of the nucleus was also confirmed by dual staining. Eugenol inhibited 50% growth (IC50) of HeLa cell lines at 200 mg/ml of extract concentration. Results: Inhibitory efficacy of eugenol isolated from Syzyzgyium aromaticum showed the cell – viability in time and dose dependent manner with consistent morphological changes. Flow cytometer determined the apoptosis confirming the cytotoxicity value for MTT at IC50 with 81.85% cell viability. Dual staining firmly enacts the damaged cells due to AO indicating apoptosis confirmation by dual staining. Morphological analysis also clearly states that nil apoptosis has been seen in control and similarly in eugenol treated when compared to cancerous HeLa cell – line. Conclusion: Evaluation of cytotoxicity effect of eugenol isolated from Syzygium aromaticum showed it can be unrivalled dormant source of prodigious changes in HeLa cell line indicating (revealing) that chemotherapeutic agent.

A Comparative Evaluation of the Cytotoxic and Antioxidant Activity of Mentha crispa Essential Oil, Its Major Constituent Rotundifolone, and Analogues on Human Glioblastoma

Cancer is a major public health problem around the globe. This disorder is affected by alterations in multiple physiological processes, and oxidative stress has been etiologically implicated in its pathogenesis. Glioblastoma (GBM) is considered the most common and aggressive brain tumor with poor prognosis despite recent improvements in surgical, radiation, and chemotherapy-based treatment approaches. The purpose of this study was to evaluate antitumor activity from Mentha crispa essential oil (MCEO), its major constituent rotundifolone (ROT), and a series of six analogues on the human U87MG glioblastoma cell line. Cytotoxic effects of the compounds on the human U87MG-GBM cell line were assessed using in vitro cell viability and oxidative and molecular genetic assays. In addition, biosafety assessment tests were performed on cultured human blood cells. Our findings revealed that MCEO, 1,2-perillaldehyde epoxide (EPER1), and perillaldehyde (PALD) were the most cytotoxic compounds against U87MG cells, with IC50 values of 16.263, 15.087, and 14.888 μg/mL, respectively. Further, these compounds increased the expressions of BRAF, EGFR, KRAS, NFκB1, NFκB1A, NFκB2, PIK3CA, PIK3R, PTEN, and TP53 genes at different degrees and decreased the expression of some genes such as AKT1, AKT2, FOS, and RAF1. Finally, treatment with MCEO, EPER1, and PALD did not lead to genotoxic damage in blood cells. Taken together, our findings reveal antiproliferative potential of MCEO, its major component ROT, and its tested analogues. Some of these chemical analogues may be useful as prototypes for the development of novel chemotherapeutic agents for treating human brain cancer and/or other cancers due to their promising activities as well as nonmutagenic property and safety.