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Nsuala BN, Enslin G, Chen W, Veale C, Viljoen A. Chemical profiling, anticonvulsant and anxiolytic effects of the smoke constituents isolated from Leonotis leonurus (L.) R.Br. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 331:118271. [PMID: 38688356 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The use of medicinal plants for central nervous system (CNS)-related ailments, such as epilepsy and anxiety, is prevalent in South Africa. Plants from the Lamiaceae family are commonly used for their therapeutic benefits. Leonotis leonurus (L.) R.Br. has been reported in ethnobotanical literature to have anticonvulsant and anxiolytic effects through the inhalation of pyrolysis products obtained by combustion of the aerial parts. AIM AND OBJECTIVES To explore the chemical profiles and CNS activity of the smoke extract and isolated constituents of L. leonurus in zebrafish larvae, through anticonvulsive and anxiolytic activity assays. MATERIALS AND METHODS The smoke extract of L. leonurus was obtained through the combustion of the aerial parts of the plant using a custom-built smoke recovery apparatus. The chemical profile of the smoke constituents was determined using Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-MS). Targeted compounds were subjected to preparative High-Performance Liquid Chromatography for separation before structure elucidation using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). The maximum tolerated concentrations, as well as the anxiolytic activity of the smoke extract were determined in five days post fertilisation zebrafish larvae. Reverse-thigmotaxis and locomotor activity of larvae in the light/dark transition assay were used to determine anxiolytic activity. Zebrafish larvae at six days post fertilisation (dpf) were subjected to several concentrations of the smoke constituents of L. leonurus. The baseline locomotor activity of the larvae was tracked for 30 min, prior to addition of pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) to induce seizure-like behaviour in the larvae, after which the locomotor activity of the larvae was once again tracked for an additional 30 min. RESULTS The UPLC-MS profiles of the smoke extract revealed the presence of two main compounds, leoleorin A and leoleorin B, which were targeted and isolated. Upon subjection to NMR spectroscopy for structure elucidation, the compounds were confirmed to be labdane diterpenoids. Both leoleorin A and leoleorin B, and the smoke extract displayed suppression of the PTZ induced seizure-like behaviour in zebrafish larvae. Under light and dark conditions, the smoke extract and compounds displayed potential anxiolytic activity at different concentrations. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that the smoke constituents of L. leonurus may exert anticonvulsant and anxiolytic effects which align with the traditional indications and the mode of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baudry N Nsuala
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
| | - Gill Enslin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
| | - Weiyang Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
| | - Clinton Veale
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Private Bag X3, Rondebosch, 7701, South Africa
| | - Alvaro Viljoen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa; SAMRC Herbal Drugs Research Unit, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa.
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Atoki AV, Aja PM, Shinkafi TS, Ondari EN, Awuchi CG. Naringenin: its chemistry and roles in neuroprotection. Nutr Neurosci 2024; 27:637-666. [PMID: 37585716 DOI: 10.1080/1028415x.2023.2243089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
According to epidemiological research, as the population ages, neurological illnesses are becoming a bigger issue. Despite improvements in the treatment of these diseases, there are still widespread worries about how to find a long-lasting remedy. Several neurological diseases can be successfully treated with natural substances. As a result, current research has been concentrated on finding effective neuroprotective drugs with improved efficacy and fewer side effects. Naringenin is one potential treatment for neurodegenerative diseases. Many citrus fruits, tomatoes, bergamots, and other fruits are rich in naringenin, a flavonoid. This phytochemical is linked to a variety of biological functions. Naringenin has attracted a lot of interest for its ability to exhibit neuroprotection through several mechanisms. In the current article, we present evidence from the literature that naringenin reduces neurotoxicity and oxidative stress in brain tissues. Also, the literatures that are currently accessible shows that naringenin reduces neuroinflammation and other neurological anomalies. Additionally, we found several studies that touted naringenin as a promising anti-amyloidogenic, antidepressant, and neurotrophic treatment option. This review's major goal is to reflect on advancements in knowledge of the molecular processes that underlie naringenin's possible neuroprotective effects. Furthermore, this article also provides highlights of Naringenin with respect to its chemistry and pharmacokinetics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrick Maduabuchi Aja
- Department of Biochemistry, Kampala International University, Ishaka, Uganda
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | | | - Erick Nyakundi Ondari
- Department of Biochemistry, Kampala International University, Ishaka, Uganda
- School of Pure and Applied Sciences, Department of Biological Sciences, Kisii University, Kisii, Kenya
| | - Chinaza Godswill Awuchi
- Department of Biochemistry, Kampala International University, Ishaka, Uganda
- School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Kampala International University, Kampala, Uganda
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Nyazema NZ, Chanyandura JT, Egan B. The use and potential abuse of psychoactive plants in southern Africa: an overview of evidence and future potential. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1269247. [PMID: 38855756 PMCID: PMC11162113 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1269247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Most Bantu ethnic groups in southern Africa utilize indigenous herbal medicines, some of which have psychoactive properties. Traditional medical practitioners (TMPs) commonly use them not only for divinatory purposes but to treat and manage mental and other illnesses. Unfortunately, the research on their results, risks, and benefits do not align. Little is known about their potential abuse among TMPs and community members in southern Africa. Herbal medicines are complex because whole plants are sometimes used, unlike in other treatments which use only one active ingredient. However, if the key mechanisms of action of these ethnomedicinal plants can be identified through socio-pharmacological research, useful botanical agents can be developed. A review of socio-pharmacological studies to evaluate the consequences of exposure to ethnomedicinal plants with psychoactive properties was conducted with the aim of identifying harm reduction strategies and investigating how the plants could be developed into useful botanicals. Method The search methods involved retrieval of records from PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Dissertations and Theses Global, and OpenGrey. The English language and human subjects were used as filters. In addition, some information was obtained from TMPs and community members. Results The following psychoactive plants were found to be commonly used or abused: Boophone disticha, Cannabis sativa, Datura stramonium, Leonotis leonurus, Psilocybe cubensis, and Sceletium tortuosum. The commercialization of Cannabis, L. leonurus, S. tortuosum, and Aspalathus is growing fast. The abuse liability of B. disticha, D. stramonium, and P. cubensis appears not to be appreciated. Five countries were found to have TMP policies and three with TMP Councils. Conclusion TMPs in the region are aware of the CNS effects of the identified psychoactive plants which can be explored further to develop therapeutic agents. There is a need to work closely with TMPs to reduce harm from the abuse of these plants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bronwyn Egan
- Botany Department, University of Limpopo, Mankgweng, South Africa
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Moyo PN, van Heerden FR. An imprecise probability approach-based determination of over-represented southern African plant genera and families used in ethnopharmacology. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 324:117757. [PMID: 38219881 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The analyses of patterns of over-representation of southern African traditional medicinal plants at the genus and family level provide information about the differences in plant use among southern African countries and disease categories. 'Over-representation' refers to the phenomenon whereby the proportion of plants belonging to a taxonomic group is higher in ethnobotanical pharmacopoeia than in the total flora. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to use the Imprecise Dirichlet Model (IDM) to analyse data from ten southern African countries to establish how over-represented medicinal plant families compare with over-represented genera, how over-represented medicinal taxa differ among countries in this region of Africa, and how over-represented taxa differ among six major disease categories. MATERIALS AND METHODS Floral data for the total species composition of each country were obtained from online databases. Medicinal plant species lists were generated from published surveys, inventories, and books. IDM calculations were executed using the inverse of the cumulative beta probability density function in Microsoft Excel™. Python programming language source code was used to calculate Pearson correlation (r) values and Jaccard coefficients (J). RESULTS Nine of forty-two over-represented medicinal plant families in southern Africa (group 1) do not have over-represented genera. Seven of the forty genera with the highest margins of over-representation belong to under-represented families. Nineteen of the forty-two over-represented families have margins of over-representation smaller than the cumulative margins of their over-represented genera. Groups of countries with similar overall flora (J ≥ 0.333) are Botswana and Namibia (group 2), Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe (group 3). The families and genera with the highest margins of over-representation are Loganiaceae and Albizia in group 1, Combretaceae and Vachellia in group 2, Dioscoreaceae and Senna in group 3, and Sapotaceae and Solanum in group 4 (South Africa). The families and genera with the highest margins of over-representation across disease categories are Ebenaceae and Albizia, Canellaceae and Dicoma, Combretaceae and Pterocelastrus, Ebenaceae and Bersama, Francoaceae and Erythrina, and Aristolochiaceae and Strychnos for plants used in the treatment of STIs, febrile and mosquito-vector diseases, microbial infections, pain, skin conditions, and female sexual/reproductive problems, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Genus-level calculations are more efficient in generating taxonomic lists that can be used for ethnopharmacological investigations due to the exclusion of under-represented genera. Limiting the size of geographical areas from which medicinal plant lists are sampled and targeting plants used to treat specific types of disease prevents the underestimation of niche over-represented taxa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prince N Moyo
- School of Chemistry and Physics, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.
| | - Fanie R van Heerden
- School of Chemistry and Physics, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.
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Reddy K, Stafford GI, Makunga NP. Skeletons in the closet? Using a bibliometric lens to visualise phytochemical and pharmacological activities linked to Sceletium, a mood enhancer. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 15:1268101. [PMID: 38576783 PMCID: PMC10991851 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1268101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Plants from the Sceletium genus (Aizoaceae) have been traditionally used for millennia by the Khoe and Khoen people in southern Africa, as an appetite suppressant as well as a mood elevator. In more recent times, this mood-elevating activity has been commercialised in the South African natural products industry for the treatment of anxiety and depression, with several products available both locally and abroad. Research on this species has seen rapid growth with advancements in analytical and pharmacological tools, in an effort to understand the composition and biological activity. The Web of Science (WoS) database was searched for articles related to 'Sceletium' and 'Mesembrine'. These data were additionally analysed by bibliometric software (VOSviewer) to generate term maps and author associations. The thematic areas with the most citations were South African Traditional Medicine for mental health (110) and anxiolytic agents (75). Pioneer studies in the genus focused on chemical structural isolation, purification, and characterisation and techniques such as thin layer chromatography, liquid chromatography (HPLC, UPLC, and more recently, LC-MS), gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to study mesembrine alkaloids. Different laboratories have used a diverse range of extraction and preanalytical methods that became routinely favoured in the analysis of the main metabolites (mesembrine, mesembranol, mesembranone, and Sceletium A4) in their respective experimental settings. In contrast with previous reviews, this paper identified gaps in the research field, being a lack of toxicology assays, a deficit of clinical assessments, too few bioavailability studies, and little to no investigation into the minor alkaloid groups found in Sceletium. Future studies are likely to see innovations in analytical techniques like leaf spray mass spectrometry and direct analysis in real-time ionisation coupled with high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry (DART-HR-TOF-MS) for rapid alkaloid identification and quality control purposes. While S. tortuosum has been the primary focus, studying other Sceletium species may aid in establishing chemotaxonomic relationships and addressing challenges with species misidentification. This research can benefit the nutraceutical industry and conservation efforts for the entire genus. At present, little to no pharmacological information is available in terms of the molecular physiological effects of mesembrine alkaloids in medical clinical settings. Research in these fields is expected to increase due to the growing interest in S. tortuosum as a herbal supplement and the potential development of mesembrine alkaloids into pharmaceutical drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaylan Reddy
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Natural Sciences Faculty, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Gary I. Stafford
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Nokwanda P. Makunga
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Natural Sciences Faculty, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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Challal S, Skiba A, Langlois M, Esguerra CV, Wolfender JL, Crawford AD, Skalicka-Woźniak K. Natural product-derived therapies for treating drug-resistant epilepsies: From ethnopharmacology to evidence-based medicine. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 317:116740. [PMID: 37315641 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Epilepsy is one of the most prevalent neurological human diseases, affecting 1% of the population in all age groups. Despite the availability of over 25 anti-seizure medications (ASMs), which are approved in most industrialized countries, approximately 30% of epilepsy patients still experience seizures that are resistant to these drugs. Since ASMs target only limited number of neurochemical mechanisms, drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) is not only an unmet medical need, but also a formidable challenge in drug discovery. AIM In this review, we examine recently approved epilepsy drugs based on natural product (NP) such as cannabidiol (CBD) and rapamycin, as well as NP-based epilepsy drug candidates still in clinical development, such as huperzine A. We also critically evaluate the therapeutic potential of botanical drugs as polytherapy or adjunct therapy specifically for DRE. METHODS Articles related to ethnopharmacological anti-epileptic medicines and NPs in treating all forms of epilepsy were collected from PubMed and Scopus using keywords related to epilepsy, DRE, herbal medicines, and NPs. The database clinicaltrials.gov was used to find ongoing, terminated and planned clinical trials using herbal medicines or NPs in epilepsy treatment. RESULTS A comprehensive review on anti-epileptic herbal drugs and natural products from the ethnomedical literature is provided. We discuss the ethnomedical context of recently approved drugs and drug candidates derived from NPs, including CBD, rapamycin, and huperzine A. Recently published studies on natural products with preclinical efficacy in animal models of DRE are summarized. Moreover, we highlight that natural products capable of pharmacologically activating the vagus nerve (VN), such as CBD, may be therapeutically useful to treat DRE. CONCLUSIONS The review highlights that herbal drugs utilized in traditional medicine offer a valuable source of potential anti-epileptic drug candidates with novel mechanisms of action, and with clinical promise for the treatment of drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). Moreover, recently developed NP-based anti-seizure medications (ASMs) indicate the translational potential of metabolites of plant, microbial, fungal and animal origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soura Challal
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, Switzerland; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Adrianna Skiba
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, Poland
| | - Mélanie Langlois
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB), Belval, Luxembourg
| | - Camila V Esguerra
- Centre for Molecular Medicine Norway (NCMM), University of Oslo, Norway
| | - Jean-Luc Wolfender
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, Switzerland; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Alexander D Crawford
- Department of Preclinical Sciences and Pathology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), Ås, Norway; Institute for Orphan Drug Discovery, Bremerhavener Innovations- und Gründerzentum (BRIG), Bremerhaven, Germany
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Ramadwa TE, Meddows-Taylor S. Traditional Uses, Pharmacological Activities, and Phytochemical Analysis of Diospyros mespiliformis Hochst. ex. A. DC (Ebenaceae): A Review. Molecules 2023; 28:7759. [PMID: 38067488 PMCID: PMC10708241 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28237759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Diospyros mespiliformis Hochst. ex. A. DC is widely distributed throughout Africa and around the world. It is utilized ethnobotanically to treat fevers, wounds, malaria, diabetes mellitus, and other diseases. This review aims to provide an exhaustive overview of the traditional uses, pharmacology, and phytochemical analysis of D. mespiliformis, with the objective of identifying its therapeutic potential for further research. Scientific resources, including Google Scholar, Science Direct, Web of Science, Pub Med, and Scopus, were used to find pertinent data on D. mespiliformis. Secondary metabolites tentatively identified from this species were primarily terpenoids, naphthoquinones, phenolics, and coumarins. D. mespiliformis has been reported to demonstrate pharmacological activities, including antimicrobial, antiproliferative, antiparasitic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anti-hypersensitivity, and antidiabetic properties. The phytochemicals and extracts from D. mespiliformis have been reported to have some pharmacological effects in in vivo studies and were not toxic to the animal models that were utilized. The D. mespiliformis information reported in this review provides researchers with a comprehensive summary of the current research status of this medicinal plant and a guide for further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanyani Emelton Ramadwa
- Department of Life and Consumer Sciences, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Florida Campus, University of South Africa, Private Bag X6, Florida 1710, South Africa;
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Coyago-Cruz E, Moya M, Méndez G, Villacís M, Rojas-Silva P, Corell M, Mapelli-Brahm P, Vicario IM, Meléndez-Martínez AJ. Exploring Plants with Flowers: From Therapeutic Nutritional Benefits to Innovative Sustainable Uses. Foods 2023; 12:4066. [PMID: 38002124 PMCID: PMC10671036 DOI: 10.3390/foods12224066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Flowers have played a significant role in society, focusing on their aesthetic value rather than their food potential. This study's goal was to look into flowering plants for everything from health benefits to other possible applications. This review presents detailed information on 119 species of flowers with agri-food and health relevance. Data were collected on their family, species, common name, commonly used plant part, bioremediation applications, main chemical compounds, medicinal and gastronomic uses, and concentration of bioactive compounds such as carotenoids and phenolic compounds. In this respect, 87% of the floral species studied contain some toxic compounds, sometimes making them inedible, but specific molecules from these species have been used in medicine. Seventy-six percent can be consumed in low doses by infusion. In addition, 97% of the species studied are reported to have medicinal uses (32% immune system), and 63% could be used in the bioremediation of contaminated environments. Significantly, more than 50% of the species were only analysed for total concentrations of carotenoids and phenolic compounds, indicating a significant gap in identifying specific molecules of these bioactive compounds. These potential sources of bioactive compounds could transform the health and nutraceutical industries, offering innovative approaches to combat oxidative stress and promote optimal well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Coyago-Cruz
- Carrera de Ingeniería en Biotecnología de los Recursos Naturales, Universidad Politécnica Salesiana, Sede Quito, Campus El Girón, Av. 12 de Octubre N2422 y Wilson, Quito 170143, Ecuador
| | - Melany Moya
- Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Carrera de Obstetricia, Universidad Central del Ecuador, Iquique, Luis Sodiro N14-121, Quito 170146, Ecuador
| | - Gabriela Méndez
- Carrera de Ingeniería en Biotecnología de los Recursos Naturales, Universidad Politécnica Salesiana, Sede Quito, Campus El Girón, Av. 12 de Octubre N2422 y Wilson, Quito 170143, Ecuador
| | - Michael Villacís
- Carrera de Ingeniería en Biotecnología de los Recursos Naturales, Universidad Politécnica Salesiana, Sede Quito, Campus El Girón, Av. 12 de Octubre N2422 y Wilson, Quito 170143, Ecuador
| | - Patricio Rojas-Silva
- Instituto de Microbiología, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales COCIBA, Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Quito 170901, Ecuador
| | - Mireia Corell
- Departamento de Ciencias Agroforestales, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Agronómica, Universidad de Sevilla, Carretera de Utrera Km 1, 41013 Sevilla, Spain
- Unidad Asociada al CSIC de Uso Sostenible del Suelo y el Agua en la Agricultura (US-IRNAS), Crta. de Utrera Km 1, 41013 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Paula Mapelli-Brahm
- Food Colour and Quality Laboratory, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Sevilla, Spain (A.J.M.-M.)
| | - Isabel M. Vicario
- Food Colour and Quality Laboratory, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Sevilla, Spain (A.J.M.-M.)
| | - Antonio J. Meléndez-Martínez
- Food Colour and Quality Laboratory, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Sevilla, Spain (A.J.M.-M.)
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Lv Y, Zheng Z, Liu R, Guo J, Zhang C, Xie Y. Monoamine oxidase B inhibitors based on natural privileged scaffolds: A review of systematically structural modification. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 251:126158. [PMID: 37549764 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
Monoamine oxidase is a flavin enzyme that catalyzes the oxidation of monoamine neurotransmitters in the brain. Various toxic by-products, aldehydes and hydrogen peroxide produced during the catalytic process, can cause oxidative stress and neuronal cell death. Overexpression of MAO-B and insufficient dopamine concentration are recognized as pathological factors in neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) including Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Therefore, the inhibition of MAO-B is an attractive target for the treatment of NDs. Despite significant efforts, few selective and reversible MAO-B inhibitors have been clinically approved. Natural products have emerged as valuable sources of lead compounds in drug discovery. Compounds such as chromone, coumarin, chalcone, caffeine, and aurone, present in natural structures, are considered as privileged scaffolds in the synthesis of MAO-B inhibitors. In this review, we summarized the structure-activity relationship (SAR) of MAO-B inhibitors based on the naturally privileged scaffolds over the past 20 years. Additionally, we proposed a balanced discussion on the advantages and limitations of natural scaffold-based MAO-B inhibitors with providing a future perspective in drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangjing Lv
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhiyuan Zheng
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Renzheng Liu
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianan Guo
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Changjun Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Xie
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China; Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceutical, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China; Key Laboratory for Green Pharmaceutical Technologies and Related Equipment of Ministry of Education, China; Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Engineering of Zhejiang Province, China.
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Akwu NA, Lekhooa M, Deqiang D, Aremu AO. Antidepressant effects of coumarins and their derivatives: A critical analysis of research advances. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 956:175958. [PMID: 37543158 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
Coumarins and their derivatives are non-flavonoids polyphenols with diverse pharmacological activities including anti-depressant effects. This study systematically examines the antidepressant effects of coumarins and their derivatives in relation to time series of research progress in the pharmacological pathways, association with other diseases, toxicity and bibliometric analysis. The review was approached using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) coupled with R package involving Biblioshiny, a web interface for Bibliometrix analysis and VOSviewer software analytic tools. Literature searches were conducted in Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed from the inception through January 21, 2023. Coumarins, depression, coumarin derivatives and treatment were the main search terms used which resulted in the inclusion of 46 eligible publications. Scopoletin, psoralen, 7-hydroxycoumarin, meranzin hydrate, osthole, esculetin/umbelliferone were the most studied coumarins with antidepressant effects. Coumarins and their derivatives exerted antidepressant effects with a stronger affinity for monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B) inhibition and, their inhibitory effect via neurotransmitter pathway on MAO is well-studied. However, epigenetic modification, neuroendocrine, neurotrophic pathways are understudied. Recent research focuses on their antidepressant effects which targeted cytokines and fibromyalgia. There is a link between the gut microbiome, the brain, and depression; meranzin hydrate exerts an antidepressant activity by remodelling the gastrointestinal system. We established that empirical data on some coumarins and their derivatives to support their antidepressant effects are limited. Likewise, the safe dose range for several coumarins and their derivatives is yet to be fully determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nneka Augustina Akwu
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems Centre, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho, 2790, South Africa; Preclinical Drug Development Platform, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.
| | - Makhotso Lekhooa
- Preclinical Drug Development Platform, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Dou Deqiang
- Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 77 Life one Road, DD port, Dalian Economic and Technical Development Zone, Dalian, 116600, China
| | - Adeyemi Oladapo Aremu
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems Centre, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X2046, Mmabatho, 2790, South Africa; School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban, 4000, South Africa.
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Haasbroek-Pheiffer A, Viljoen A, Steenekamp J, Chen W, Hamman J. Permeation of Phytochemicals of Selected Psychoactive Medicinal Plants across Excised Sheep Respiratory and Olfactory Epithelial Tissues. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15051423. [PMID: 37242666 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15051423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The intranasal route of drug administration offers an opportunity to bypass the blood-brain barrier and deliver compounds directly into the brain. Scientific evidence exists for medicinal plants (e.g., Centella asiatica and Mesembryanthemum tortuosum) to treat central nervous system conditions such as anxiety and depression. The ex vivo permeation of selected phytochemicals (i.e., asiaticoside and mesembrine) has been measured across excised sheep nasal respiratory and olfactory tissue. Permeation studies were conducted on individual phytochemicals and C. asiatica and M. tortuosum crude extracts. Asiaticoside exhibited statistically significantly higher permeation across both tissues when applied alone as compared to the C. asiatica crude extract, while mesembrine permeation was similar when applied alone or as M. tortuosum crude extract. Permeation of all the phytocompounds was similar or slightly higher than that of the drug atenolol across the respiratory tissue. Permeation of all the phytocompounds was similar to or slightly lower than that of atenolol across the olfactory tissue. In general, the permeation was higher across the olfactory epithelial tissue than across the respiratory epithelial tissue and therefore showed potential for direct nose-to-brain delivery of the selected psychoactive phytochemicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Haasbroek-Pheiffer
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Alvaro Viljoen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- SAMRC Herbal Drugs Research Unit, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Jan Steenekamp
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Weiyang Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Josias Hamman
- SAMRC Herbal Drugs Research Unit, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
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Salile SS, Lee HJ, Alberts PSF, Abula T, Raimondo JV, Stafford GI. In vitro and in vivo anti-seizure activity of hydromethanolic extract and fractions of Pterolobium stellatum. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 304:116073. [PMID: 36543277 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.116073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE In Ethiopia, the whole plant juice of Pterolobium stellatum is used to treat seizures and epilepsy. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the antiseizure activity of hydromethanolic crude extract and fractions collected from leaves of P. stellatum using both in vitro, and in vivo seizure models in mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fresh leaves of P. stellatum were collected from Awash Melka, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. An 80% crude methanol extract was further fractionated to produce petroleum ether, chloroform, butanol, and aqueous fractions. Anti-seizure activity of the crude extract and fractions (petroleum ether, chloroform, butanol, and water) were assessed at a concentration of 0.7 mg/ml using the in vitro 0 Mg2+ model of seizures in mouse brain slices prepared from 14- to 21-day-old C57BL/6 mice. The maximal electroshock seizure (MES) model and the pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) seizure model for seizures were performed on male BALB/c mice using 400 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg of crude 80% methanol extract, as well as the four fractions described above. Diazepam and phenytoin were used as positive controls for PTZ and MES test respectively. RESULTS Addition of 0.7 mg/ml of crude 80% methanol extract of P. stellatum prevented the onset of SLEs in most brain slices in the 0 Mg2+in vitro model of seizures, with similar efficacy to diazepam (3 μM). The same extract at 400 and 800 mg/kg was efficacious in reducing the hindlimb extension time in the MES model and delaying the onset of myoclonic convulsions in the PTZ model, although not to the same extent as phenytoin (10 mg/kg) or diazepam (5 mg/kg). The chloroform and water fractions of the crude extract also showed significant anti-seizure activity across all three models whilst the non-polar petroleum ether and butanol fractions did not. The UPLC-MS analysis indicated the presence of gallic acid, ellagic acid, kaempferol, myricitrin, isoquercitrin and quercitirin in the crude extract. Gallic acid and ellagic acid were observed in chloroform fraction and in the water fraction ellagic acid, kaempferol, myricitrin and isoquercitrin were detected. CONCLUSION The crude hydromethanolic extract of P. stellatum has significant anti-seizure activity. The chloroform and aqueous fractions have antiseizure activity. The extracts have previously identified compounds with anticonvulsant activity which indicates the antiseizure potential of the plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samson Sahile Salile
- Pharmacology Department, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 1176, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; Pharmacy Department, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Arba Minch University, P.O. Box 21, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Hamin John Lee
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Human Biology, Neuroscience Institute and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Paul Sewes Frederick Alberts
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield, 0028, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Teferra Abula
- Pharmacology Department, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, P.O. Box 1176, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Joseph Valentino Raimondo
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Human Biology, Neuroscience Institute and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Gary Ivan Stafford
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield, 0028, Pretoria, South Africa.
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13
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Joshi BR, Hakim MM, Patel IC. The biological active compounds and biological activities of Desmodium species from Indian region: a review. BENI-SUEF UNIVERSITY JOURNAL OF BASIC AND APPLIED SCIENCES 2023. [DOI: 10.1186/s43088-022-00339-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
India is a diverse source of medicinal and aromatic plants. Desmodium species are one among them having importance in curing many human diseases. This herbaceous plant's species diversity minimizes problems with its pharmaceutical or herbal formulation. As a result, a detailed analysis of the phytochemistry of the Desmodium genus will allow for the proper use of this plant.
Main body
This review explores the distribution of Desmodium species and their various biological activities. Worldwide, 17 Desmodium species are found, while 13 species of Desmodium are found in India. Plants are mainly used in ayurvedic preparation for curing various diseases. Phytochemical examination of Desmodium species indicated the presence of isoflavones, glycosyl-flavonoids, coumarone-chromones, pterocarpons, triterpenoids, saponins, tetrahydroiso-quinolones, phenylethylamines, indole-3-alkylamines, lipids, and alkaloids. These genera also display various pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anticancer, analgesic, depressive, antipyretic, antidepressant, anti-diabetic, and antioxidant properties. Also it is valuable for febrifuges, remedies for dysentery and liver disease, wound healing, ulcer, antidote against snake bites, catarrh, abscesses and eye diseases, abdominal tumor, asthma, fever, nasal polyps, menstrual disorder, fever, colds and helps in kidney problems.
Conclusion
This review describes the distribution of various Desmodium species recorded by a different author, focusing on species recorded in Gujarat, India. Again, the review helps in the documentation of bioactive compounds from the Desmodium genus that may help rectify multiple severe diseases. Furthermore, the numerous biological potencies of the specific bioactive substance may characterize the interest in various pharmaceuticals and cosmeceuticals sectors.
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Taye AD, Bizuneh GK, Kasahun AE. Ethnobotanical uses, phytochemistry and biological activity of the genus Euclea: A review. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1170145. [PMID: 37153774 PMCID: PMC10154578 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1170145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Euclea (Ebenaceae) is a genus of flowering shrubs and trees widely distributed in Africa, the Comoro Islands, and Arabia. This review aimed to evaluate the ethnobotanical uses, phytochemistry, and biological activities of the genus Euclea on available research reports. This was achieved through PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Taylor and Francis Online, Wiley Online Library which provides access to scientific and medical research. The extensive literature survey revealed that plants that belong to this genus are used as folkloric medicine for the treatment of diabetes mellitus, toothache, diarrhea, cancer, malaria, leprosy, and genital and oral diseases in the case of HIV/AIDS-related diseases. To date, more than 40 secondary metabolites have been isolated and identified from these plants, especially from E natalensis and E. divinorum. Among these, naphthoquinones, terpenes, and flavonoids are potential secondary metabolites with profound biological activities. Euclea plant extracts and their bioactive compounds possess outstanding pharmacological properties, especially antimalarial, antidiabetic, anticancer, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abebe Dagne Taye
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Gizachew Kassahun Bizuneh
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
- *Correspondence: Gizachew Kassahun Bizuneh,
| | - Asmamaw Emagn Kasahun
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Sadgrove NJ. Rumors of Psychedelics, Psychotropics and Related Derivatives in Vachellia and Senegalia in Contrast with Verified Records in Australian Acacia. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:3356. [PMID: 36501395 PMCID: PMC9738376 DOI: 10.3390/plants11233356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
There are almost 1000 species of Acacia sensu stricto in Australia, while the 44 species and 4 subspecies in southern Africa were taxonomically revised in the year 2011 to Senegalia and Vachellia. There are rumors of a chemical similarity between the Australian Acacia and their southern African sister genera. Chemical analysis has unequivocally demonstrated the presence of tryptamines (i.e., DMT), β-carbolines, histamines, and phenethylamines in Australian species. However, reliable published data were not found in support of similar alkaloids in southern African (or even African) species, indicating the need for exploratory phytochemical analysis. Interestingly, the Australian species are more like the Vachellia and Senegalia from the Americas. While many reliable chemical studies have been found, there are several more that report only tentative results. Tentative data and anecdotal accounts are included in the current review to guide researchers to areas where further work can be done. For example, the current review encourages further phytochemical work to confirm if the two metabolite families, tryptamine and β-carboline alkaloids, occur together in a single specimen. Tryptamines and β-carbolines are the prerequisite ingredients of the South American psychotropic drink ayahuasca, which utilizes two different species to create this synergistic combination. These observations and others are discussed in light of geochemical variability, the potential ethnobotanical implications, and the need for further research to confirm or nullify anecdotal reports and tentative chromatographic/spectroscopic data in southern African species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Sadgrove
- Department of Botany and Plant Biotechnology, University of Johannesburg (Auckland Park Campus), Auckland Park, P.O. Box 524, Johannesburg 2006, South Africa
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16
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Hussein ME, Mohamed OG, El-Fishawy AM, El-Askary HI, Hamed AA, Abdel-Aziz MM, Alnajjar R, Belal A, Naglah AM, Almehizia AA, Al-Karmalawy AA, Tripathi A, El Senousy AS. Anticholinesterase Activity of Budmunchiamine Alkaloids Revealed by Comparative Chemical Profiling of Two Albizia spp., Molecular Docking and Dynamic Studies. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:plants11233286. [PMID: 36501324 PMCID: PMC9738009 DOI: 10.3390/plants11233286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease remains a global health challenge and an unmet need requiring innovative approaches to discover new drugs. The current study aimed to investigate the inhibitory activity of Albizia lucidior and Albizia procera leaves against acetylcholinesterase enzyme in vitro and explore their chemical compositions. Metabolic profiling of the bioactive plant, A. lucidior, via UHPLC/MS/MS-based Molecular Networking highlighted the richness of its ethanolic extract with budmunchiamine alkaloids, fourteen budmunchiamine alkaloids as well as four new putative ones were tentatively identified for the first time in A. lucidior. Pursuing these alkaloids in the fractions of A. lucidior extract via molecular networking revealed that alkaloids were mainly concentrated in the ethyl acetate fraction. In agreement, the alkaloid-rich fraction showed the most promising anticholinesterase activity (IC50 5.26 µg/mL) versus the ethanolic extract and ethyl acetate fraction of A. lucidior (IC50 24.89 and 6.90 µg/mL, respectively), compared to donepezil (IC50 3.90 µg/mL). Furthermore, deep in silico studies of tentatively identified alkaloids of A. lucidior were performed. Notably, normethyl budmunchiamine K revealed superior stability and receptor binding affinity compared to the two used references: donepezil and the co-crystallized inhibitor (MF2 700). This was concluded based on molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations and molecular mechanics generalized born/solvent accessibility (MM-GBSA) calculations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mai E. Hussein
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr el Aini St., Cairo 11562, Egypt
| | - Osama G. Mohamed
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr el Aini St., Cairo 11562, Egypt
- Natural Products Discovery Core, Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Ahlam M. El-Fishawy
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr el Aini St., Cairo 11562, Egypt
| | - Hesham I. El-Askary
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr el Aini St., Cairo 11562, Egypt
| | - Ahmed A. Hamed
- Microbial Chemistry Department, National Research Centre, 33 El-Buhouth Street, Dokki, Giza 12622, Egypt
| | - Marwa M. Abdel-Aziz
- Regional Center for Mycology and Biotechnology (RCMB), Al-Azhar University, Cairo 11651, Egypt
| | - Radwan Alnajjar
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Benghazi, Benghazi 16063, Libya
- PharmD, Faculty of Pharmacy, Libyan International Medical University, Benghazi 16063, Libya
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Amany Belal
- Medicinal Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef 62514, Egypt
| | - Ahmed M. Naglah
- Drug Exploration and Development Chair (DEDC), Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
- Peptide Chemistry Department, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo 12622, Egypt
| | - Abdulrahman A. Almehizia
- Drug Exploration and Development Chair (DEDC), Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed A. Al-Karmalawy
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahram Canadian University, 6th of October City, Giza 12566, Egypt
| | - Ashootosh Tripathi
- Natural Products Discovery Core, Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Amira S. El Senousy
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr el Aini St., Cairo 11562, Egypt
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Birhan YS. Medicinal plants utilized in the management of epilepsy in Ethiopia: ethnobotany, pharmacology and phytochemistry. Chin Med 2022; 17:129. [PMCID: PMC9675240 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-022-00686-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a common central nervous system (CNS) disorder that affects 50 million people worldwide. Patients with status epilepticus (SE) suffer from devastating comorbidities and a high incidence of mortalities. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are the mainstream treatment options for the symptomatic relief of epilepsy. The incidence of refractory epilepsy and the dose-dependent neurotoxicity of AEDs such as fatigue, cognitive impairment, dizziness, attention-deficit behavior, and other side effects are the major bottlenecks in epilepsy treatment. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), epilepsy patients failed to adhere to the AEDs regimens and consider other options such as complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) to relieve pain due to status epilepticus (SE). Plant-based CAMs are widely employed for the treatment of epilepsy across the globe including Ethiopia. The current review documented around 96 plant species (PS) that are often used for the treatment of epilepsy in Ethiopia. It also described the in vivo anticonvulsant activities and toxicity profiles of the antiepileptic medicinal plants (MPs). Moreover, the phytochemical constituents of MPs with profound anticonvulsant effects were also assessed. The result reiterated that a lot has to be done to show the association between herbal-based epilepsy treatment and in vivo pharmacological activities of MPs regarding their mechanism of action (MOA), toxicity profiles, and bioactive constituents so that they can advance into the clinics and serve as a treatment option for epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yihenew Simegniew Birhan
- grid.449044.90000 0004 0480 6730Department of Chemistry, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Debre Markos University, P.O. Box 269, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
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Bonokwane MB, Lekhooa M, Struwig M, Aremu AO. Antidepressant Effects of South African Plants: An Appraisal of Ethnobotanical Surveys, Ethnopharmacological and Phytochemical Studies. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:895286. [PMID: 35846999 PMCID: PMC9277359 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.895286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, the search for safe and potent natural-based treatment for depression is receiving renewed interest given the numerous side-effects associated with many existing drugs. In South Africa, the use of plants to manage depression and related symptoms is fairly documented among different ethnic groups. In the current study, we reviewed existing ethnobotanical, ethnopharmacological and phytochemical studies on South African medicinal plants used to manage depression. Electronic databases were accessed for scientific literature that meets the inclusion criteria. Plants with ethnobotanical evidence were subjected to a further pharmacological review to establish the extent (if any) of their effectiveness as antidepressants. Critical assessment resulted in 20 eligible ethnobotanical records, which generated an inventory of 186 plants from 63 plant families. Due to the cultural differences observed in the definition of depression, or lack of definition in some cultures, most plants are reported to treat a wide range of atypical symptoms related to depression. Boophone disticha, Leonotis leonurus and Mentha longifolia were identified as the three most popular plants, with over eight mentions each from the ethnobotanical records. The dominant families were Asteraceae (24), Fabaceae (16), Amaryllidaceae (10), and Apocynaceae (10) which accounted for about 32% of the 186 plants. Only 27 (≈14.5%) of the plants have been screened for antidepressant activity using in vitro and in vivo models. Agapanthus campanulatus, Boophone disticha, Hypericum perforatum, Mondia whitei and Xysmalobium undulatum, represent the most studied plants. Phytochemical investigation on nine out of the 27 plants revealed 24 compounds with antidepressant-like effects. Some of these included buphanidrine and buphanamine which were isolated from the leaves of Boophone disticha, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol and cannabichromene obtained from the buds of Cannabis sativa and carnosic acid, rosmarinic acid and salvigenin from Rosmarinus officinalis, A significant portion (≈85%) of 186 plants with ethnobotanical records still require pharmacological studies to assess their potential antidepressant-like effects. This review remains a valuable reference material that may guide future ethnobotanical surveys to ensure their robustness and validity as well as database to identify promising plants to screen for pharmacology efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melia Bokaeng Bonokwane
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Mmabatho, South Africa
| | - Makhotso Lekhooa
- Preclinical Drug Development Platform, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
- *Correspondence: Makhotso Lekhooa, ; Adeyemi Oladapo Aremu,
| | - Madeleen Struwig
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Mmabatho, South Africa
| | - Adeyemi Oladapo Aremu
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems Centre, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Mmabatho, South Africa
- *Correspondence: Makhotso Lekhooa, ; Adeyemi Oladapo Aremu,
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Gbadamosi IT, Henneh IT, Aluko OM, Yawson EO, Fokoua AR, Koomson A, Torbi J, Olorunnado SE, Lewu FS, Yusha'u Y, Keji-Taofik ST, Biney RP, Tagoe TA. Depression in Sub-Saharan Africa. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2022; 12:309-322. [PMID: 35746974 PMCID: PMC9210463 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2022.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mood disorders can be considered among the most common and debilitating mental disorders. Major depression, as an example of mood disorders, is known to severely reduce the quality of life as well as psychosocial functioning of those affected. Its impact on the burden of disease worldwide has been enormous, with the World Health Organisation projecting depression to be the leading cause of mental illness by 2030. Despite several studies on the subject, little has been done to contextualise the condition in Africa, coupled with the fact that there is still much to be understood on the subject. This review attempts to shed more light on the prevalence of depression in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), its pathophysiology, risk factors, diagnosis and the experimental models available to study depression within the sub-region. It also evaluates the contribution of the sub-region to the global research output of depression as well as bottlenecks associated with full exploitation of the sub region's resources to manage the disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismail Temitayo Gbadamosi
- Department of Anatomy, University of Ilorin, Nigeria
- Laboratory for Translational Research in Neuropsychiatric Disorders, BRAINCITY Nencki-EMBL Center of Excellence for Neural Plasticty and Brain Disorders, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Isaac Tabiri Henneh
- Department of Pharmacotherapeutics and Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Oritoke Modupe Aluko
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Awo Koomson
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology University of Ghana, Ghana
| | - Joseph Torbi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology University of Ghana, Ghana
| | | | | | - Yusuf Yusha'u
- Department of Human Physiology Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
| | | | - Robert Peter Biney
- Department of Pharmacotherapeutics and Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Ghana
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Van Vuuren SF, Motlhatlego KE, Netshia V. Traditionally used polyherbals in a southern African therapeutic context. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 288:114977. [PMID: 35017037 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.114977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE In African traditional medicine, there are several plant species that are used in combination with either other plant species or non-plant derived combinations such as sugar and honey, salt and vinegar, milk, fat etc. This review examines the role of these combinations and postulates the scientific and therapeutic validation of such combinations. AIM OF THE STUDY This study reviewed the ethnopharmacological literature and documented the use of southern African plant combinations to find a scientific rationale for such combinations, and provide recommendations for future studies. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ethnobotanical books and online databases such as Scopus, ScienceDirect, PubMed and Google Scholar were used to find ethnobotanical studies within the southern African context that focus on the combinations of plants with other plants or various additional ingredients. The scientific literature was examined to determine if evidence was available to substantiate such combinations. RESULTS One hundred and eighty-seven medicinal plant (plant-to-plant) combinations that are used in the southern African traditional healing system were recorded. These plant combinations were used against infections of the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, and skin as well other non-infectious diseases such as reproductive and psychiatric disorders. Respiratory infections were the most documented infections to be treated using plant combinations. The plant that was documented to be most commonly used in combination with other plants was Artemisia afra Jacq. ex Willd. While plant-plant combinations have drawn a marked interest, comparatively, plant-adjuvant (e.g. milk, sugar, honey, salt, vinegar, fats) combinations have attracted less research interest. Milk was reported as the most used additional ingredient in combination with medicinal plants. The combination of animal urine and dung with medicinal plants has been reported as a treatment for treat prostate infections, the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Other ingredients such as clay and flour were also documented, and these are often mixed with medicinal plants to treat fever, stomach ailments, sexually transmitted infections (STI) and skin conditions. Although combination therapy has been frequently reported in ethnobotanical records, over 90% of the combinations reviewed still need to be scientifically validated. CONCLUSION Scientific reports on the antimicrobial, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and other pharmacological effects of these combinations may offer an understanding of traditional combination therapy. In addition, investigation into the mechanisms of action of these combinations are also recommended to supplement the findings. Nonetheless, the use of plant combinations is still an untapped research area in southern Africa and there is a need to validate the use of those documented combinations to obtain a better understanding of combined traditional medicinal plant use.
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Affiliation(s)
- S F Van Vuuren
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - K E Motlhatlego
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - V Netshia
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Ayeni EA, Gong Y, Yuan H, Hu Y, Bai X, Liao X. Medicinal Plants for Anti-neurodegenerative diseases in West Africa. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 285:114468. [PMID: 34390796 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Neurodegenerative diseases are neuronal diseases that affect the brain components by degenerating the structure and function of the central or peripheral nervous system progressively. It is a leading cause of death and affects huge amount of people worldwide. Plant-based medicines have been utilised in the therapies for many illnesses that have defied western treatments, including neurodegenerative diseases. AIM OF THIS REVIEW This review presents an overview of the major neurodegenerative diseases and reported prominent medicinal plants used in managing those diseases in West Africa. METHODS Scientific articles regarding medicinal plants and their usefulness in managing neurodegenerative diseases in West Africa were pooled from different scientific databases. We used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses to filter articles based on their relevance. Pharmacological activity, plant parts used, experimental models, and some isolated chemical compounds of those plants were summarised. RESULTS In the West Africa region, Fabaceae (19%) and Solanaceae (13%) have the highest representation of plant families used to treat neurological diseases, while Apocynaceae, Asteraceae, Euphorbiaceae have also been utilised. Flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids, coumarins present in those plants and their derivatives are reported to possess neuro-protective effects. Biochemical enzymes correlating to antioxidants, anti-inflammatory effects are the potential targets against neurodegenerative diseases. CONCLUSION Medicinal plants for anti-neurodegenerative diseases in West Africa have been documented with their neuropharmacological activities. Plant families such as Fabaceae, Solanaceae, Apocynaceae, Asteraceae, and Euphorbiaceae could be a major natural source for discovery of anti-neurodegenerative drugs, thus the metabolites from them should be given priority for neurological research. This review will provide clues for further investigations on the screening and development of anti-neurodegenerative natural products from West African medicinal plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Ayodeji Ayeni
- Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yuzhou Gong
- Shanghai Natural History Museum, Branch of Shanghai Science & Technology Museum, Shanghai, 200041, China; School of Life Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Hao Yuan
- Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yikao Hu
- Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiaolin Bai
- Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xun Liao
- Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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Gwedela MNV, Terai H, Lampiao F, Matsunami K, Aizawa H. Anti-seizure effects of medicinal plants in Malawi on pentylenetetrazole-induced seizures in zebrafish larvae. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 284:114763. [PMID: 34688800 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Medicinal plants are used to manage and treat epilepsy in Malawi because of traditional beliefs and barriers to conventional anti-seizure drugs. Among the plants prescribed by traditional medical practitioners are Margaritaria discoidea, Dalbergia boehmii, Dalbergia nitidula, Catunaregam spinosa, and Lannea discolor. Despite the wide use of these plants, there is a lack of scientific evidence to support their anti-seizure efficacy. AIM OF THE STUDY This study used the pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced larval zebrafish seizure model to screen for anti-seizure effects of a collection of medicinal plants traditionally used in Malawi. MATERIALS AND METHODS Zebrafish larvae were incubated in decoctions at maximum tolerated concentrations for 18 h and exposed to PTZ. As a primary screen, the effects of the decoctions on seizure-induced locomotor activity were determined. Decoctions that significantly reduced total distance traveled were further checked for effects on seizure latency and frequency, brain activity, immediate early gene expression, and c-fos protein expression. RESULTS M. discoidea male leaves, D. boehmii roots, and D. nitidula leaves showed significant anti-seizure effects in the primary screen and were selected for further study. Electrophysiological and immediate early gene analyses corroborated anti-seizure effect of D. boehmii and D. nitidula. The results of c-fos protein expression further suggested that the anti-seizure effects in the larval brain may be mediated by the suppression of neurons localized in midbrain regions. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide pioneering scientific evidence of the presence of anti-seizure activity in M. discoidea, D. boehmii, and D. nitidula, prescribed by traditional Malawian medical practitioners. Further studies are needed to identify and isolate compounds responsible for such biological activities and elucidate the possible mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayeso Naomi Victoria Gwedela
- Department of Neurobiology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, 734-8553, Japan
| | - Haruhi Terai
- Department of Neurobiology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, 734-8553, Japan
| | - Fanuel Lampiao
- Africa Centre of Excellence in Public Health and Herbal Medicine, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Private Bag 360, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Katsuyoshi Matsunami
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, 734-8553, Japan
| | - Hidenori Aizawa
- Department of Neurobiology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, 734-8553, Japan.
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Mudonhi N, Nunu WN. Traditional Medicine Utilisation Among Pregnant Women in Sub-saharan African Countries: A Systematic Review of Literature. INQUIRY: THE JOURNAL OF HEALTH CARE ORGANIZATION, PROVISION, AND FINANCING 2022; 59:469580221088618. [PMID: 35506677 PMCID: PMC9073130 DOI: 10.1177/00469580221088618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Traditional medicine has the potential to boost the health and economies of many SSA countries, especially if regulatory mechanisms are deployed to govern their protection and utilisation. There is lack of knowledge regarding traditional medicines and their impact on pregnancy. This paper reviews the literature on traditional medicine utilisation among pregnant women in Sub-Saharan African countries. The paper, determined the proportion of pregnant women utilising traditional medicines in Sub-Saharan Africa, identified the different types of traditional medicine used during antenatal care and reasons for Use in Sub-Saharan Africa and also identified challenges that are faced by women who use traditional medicine in antenatal care. A systematic exploratory review was conducted guided by the PRISMA framework. The databases that were searched included Google Scholar, PubMed, Cochrane, HINARI and the World Health Organization. Forty-one literature sources were eligible and included in the review process. Reported traditional medicine utilisation ranged between 12 and 93% among pregnant women in Sub-Saharan Africa. Different types of traditional medicines have been utilised in Sub-Saharan Africa for different purposes. Safety and poor management of usage were reported to be some of the challenges associated with traditional medicine. There is a need to determine chemical components and mode of action of these herbs as some could be beneficial, whilst others harmful, leading to severe pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Mudonhi
- Department of Environmental Science and Health, Faculty of Applied Sciences, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
| | - Wilfred N. Nunu
- Department of Environmental Science and Health, Faculty of Applied Sciences, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
- Scientific Agriculture and Environment Development Institute, National University of Science and Technology, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
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Tettevi EJ, Maina M, Simpong DL, Osei-Atweneboana MY, Ocloo A. A Review of African Medicinal Plants and Functional Foods for the Management of Alzheimer's Disease-related Phenotypes, Treatment of HSV-1 Infection and/or Improvement of Gut Microbiota. J Evid Based Integr Med 2022; 27:2515690X221114657. [PMID: 35866220 PMCID: PMC9310297 DOI: 10.1177/2515690x221114657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder is the most common form of dementia globally. Several studies have suggested alteration in the gut microbiota and HSV-1 infection as contributing factors to the development of the disease. As at now, there are no AD attenuating agents and AD pharmacotherapy is focused on managing symptoms while plants used in ethnomedicine remain potential sources of drugs for the treatment of the condition. Here, we reviewed published databases for African ethnomedicinal plants and functional foods of African origin that are used in the management of AD-related phenotypes, treatment of herpes simplex virus −1 (HSV-1) and/or improvement of gut microbiota. A total of 101 unique plant species and 24 different types of traditionally prepared African functional foodstuff were identified. Of the 101 identified plant species, 50 species serve as functional foodstuffs. Twenty-three (23) of the ethnomedicinal plant families were successfully identified for the treatment and management of AD-related phenotypes and age-related dementia. Eighteen (18) African plant species from 15 families were also identified as potent remedies for HSV-1; while many African wild fruits (3 species), roots and tubers (7 species), leafy vegetables (14 species), and seaweeds (26 species) were functional foods for modifying AD-related phenotypes. It was concluded that African medicinal plants are potential sources of both AD attenuating agents and phytocompounds that may be used against HSV-1 infection and alteration of gut microbiota. Additionally, a number of African functional foods are important sources of prebiotics and probiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Jenner Tettevi
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Biological Science, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, School of Biological Science, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
- Biomedical and Public Health Research Unit, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research—Water Research Institute, Accra, Ghana
| | - Mahmoud Maina
- Serpell Laboratory, Sussex Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Sussex, UK
- Biomedical Science Research and Training Centre, College of Medical Sciences, Yobe State University, Damaturu, Nigeria
| | - David Larbi Simpong
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health and Allied Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Mike Y. Osei-Atweneboana
- Biomedical and Public Health Research Unit, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research—Water Research Institute, Accra, Ghana
- CSIR-College of Science and Technology, 2nd CSIR Close, Airport Residential Area, Behind Golden Tulip Hotel, Accra, Ghana
| | - Augustine Ocloo
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Biological Science, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
- Augustine Ocloo, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Biological Science, University of Ghana, Volta Road, Legon LG54, Ghana.
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Peterson B, Jacobsz C, Hamman J, Viljoen A, Steyn D. Pharmacokinetic interactions: The effects of selected herbal extracts on permeation of P-glycoprotein substrate drugs across excised pig intestinal tissue. JOURNAL OF HERBMED PHARMACOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.34172/jhp.2022.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: There is growing concern that co-administered herbal medicines may alter the pharmacokinetics and, therefore, the efficacy and toxicity of Western drugs. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential membrane permeation modulating effects of four herbal extracts, i.e., Harpagophytum procumbens, Hoodia gordonii, Leonotis leonurus, and Vitis vinifera on a model compound, Rhodamine 123 (RH-123). Methods: An in vitro permeation model, i.e., excised pig intestinal tissue, mounted to test chambers in a Sweetana-Grass diffusion apparatus, was used to measure the bi-directional transport of RH-123 in the presence and in the absence of four herbal extracts. The concentration of transported RH-123 in each sample was determined by means of fluorescence spectroscopic analysis. The integrity of the mounted jejunum tissue during experimentation was confirmed by measuring the permeation of Lucifer Yellow through these membranes. Trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER) of the mounted membranes was also measured at the onset and termination of each experiment to monitor whether tight junction modulation occurred. Results: H. procumbens extract increased the secretory transport of RH-123, indicative of the induction of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) mediated efflux. H. gordonii extract also increased RH-123’s absorptive transport, coupled with a subsequent decrease in its secretory transport, indicating the P-gp related efflux inhibition. Contrary, L. leonurus extract reduced RH-123’s absorptive transport, accompanied by an increase in its secretory transport. V. vinifera seed extract, however, increased both the absorptive and secretory transport of RH-123. A reduction in TEER was observed in the presence of V. vinifera extract, indicating the modulation of tight junction integrity. Conclusion: The ex vivo pharmacokinetics interactions recorded in the current study suggest that the co-administration of herbal medicines could alter the extent of membrane permeation of Western drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Peterson
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Corneli Jacobsz
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Josias Hamman
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Alvaro Viljoen
- Faculty of Science, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and SAMRC Herbal Drugs Research Unit, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Dewald Steyn
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacen™), North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
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Shukurova MK, Myint D, Yi SS, Saw OM, Watanabe KN. Morphological Description and Ethnobotanical Review of the Orphan Crop Myin-Hkwa (Centella asiatica L.) From Myanmar. FRONTIERS IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fsufs.2021.680862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Centella asiatica is a medicinal herb commonly known as Asiatic pennywort or gotu kola. The species is valued for its medicinal and nutritional properties. It is a perennial plant with leaves and stems that can be consumed as a green leafy vegetable. It is used as a folk remedy to cure various mild and chronic diseases due to its anti-rheumatic, antipyretic, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory effects, and as a mental rejuvenator. Although the species is widely distributed throughout the tropics and subtropics, its recognition was limited. The morphological description of C. asiatica is not well-documented in Myanmar, in Burmese or other local languages. Plant assessment via morphological markers is one of the ultimate methods for the primary description and characterization of their phenotypic traits. The objectives of this study were focused on the description of Myanmarese C. asiatica grown in Japan through morphological markers and a brief overview of its ethnobotanical use in Asia. Morphological characterization revealed the quantitative and qualitative differences regarding several traits among assessed C. asiatica samples. Furthermore, the study can provide information on the primary C. asiatica cultivation system in Japan, as it can be a potentially new and economically important crop for the Japanese market.
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27
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Development of a Quantitative Method for Analysis of Compounds Found in Mondia whitei Using HPLC-DAD. Processes (Basel) 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/pr9111864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mondia whitei is one of the popular medicinal plants in Africa, which has been used extensively across the continent to cure various ailments. Products prepared from this plant are distributed commercially. In this study, an HPLC-DAD method was developed and validated for seven compounds to enable quality control of these products. The method was validated using the external standard-calibration and the standard-addition methods which were found not significantly different. The method was found to be linear in the ranges 1–14 mg/L and 3–14 mg/kg with correlation coefficients from 0.9942–0.9995 and 0.9907–0.9993 in the solvent and the different matrices, respectively. The limit of detection (LOD) values of the method were found to range between 0.1–1.2 mg/L in the solvent and syrup, and between 0.4–1.2 mg/kg in the teabag and root powder. The limit of quantification (LOQ) values were found to range between 0.5–3.9 mg/L in the solvent and syrup, and between 1.4–3.8 mg/kg in the teabag and root powder. The method was also found to be precise with percentage relative standard deviations below 5% and 10% in the solvent and matrices, respectively. The method was applied to Mondia whitei products for qualitative and quantitative analysis.
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Geck MS, Lecca D, Marchese G, Casu L, Leonti M. Ethnomedicine and neuropsychopharmacology in Mesoamerica. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 278:114243. [PMID: 34129899 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The burden of disease caused by mental and neurological disorders is increasing globally, to a disproportionate degree in Latin America. In contrast to the many psychoactive plants with a use history in Mesoamerican cultures, the translation to the wider population of knowledge around numerous botanicals used contemporarily by indigenous Mesoamerican societies to treat psychological and neurological disorders did not receive the same attention. MATERIAL AND METHODS We used the previously published Mesoamerican Medicinal Plant Database to extract species and associated botanical drugs used as treatments for illnesses associated with the nervous system by Mesoamerican cultures in Belize, Guatemala, and Mexico. With the critical use of published pharmacological literature, the cross-culturally most salient genera are systematically reviewed. RESULTS From 2188 plant taxa contained in the database 1324 are used as treatments for illnesses associated with the nervous system. The ethnomedical data was critically confronted with the available biomedical literature for the 58 cross-culturally most salient genera. For a considerable proportion of the frequently used taxa, preclinical data are available, mostly validating ethnomedicinal uses. CONCLUSION This quantitative approach facilitates the prioritization of taxa for future pre-clinical, clinical and treatment outcome studies and gives patients, practitioners, and legislators a fundamental framework of evidence, on which to base decisions regarding phytomedicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias S Geck
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042, Monserrato, CA, Italy; Biovision - Foundation for Ecological Development, Heinrichstrasse 147, 8005, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daniele Lecca
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042, Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Giorgio Marchese
- Institute of Translational Pharmacology UOS of Cagliari National Research Council of Italy, Pula, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Laura Casu
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042, Monserrato, CA, Italy
| | - Marco Leonti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria, 09042, Monserrato, CA, Italy.
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Moragrega I, Ríos JL. Medicinal Plants in the Treatment of Depression: Evidence from Preclinical Studies. PLANTA MEDICA 2021; 87:656-685. [PMID: 33434941 DOI: 10.1055/a-1338-1011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Medicinal plants and their extracts are natural remedies with enormous potential for treating various diseases, including depression and anxiety. In the case of depression, hundreds of plants have traditionally been used in folk medicine for generations. Different plant extracts and natural products have been analyzed as potential antidepressant agents with validated models to test for antidepressant-like effects in animals, although other complementary studies have also been employed. Most of these studies focus on the possible mediators implicated in these potential effects, with dopamine, serotonin, and noradrenaline being the principal neurotransmitters implicated, both through interference with receptors and with their metabolism by monoamino oxidases, as well as through neuro-endocrine and neuroprotective effects. There are approximately 650 reports of antidepressant-like medicinal plants in PubMed; 155 of them have been compiled in this review, with a relevant group yielding positive results. Saffron and turmeric are the most relevant species studied in both preclinical and clinical studies; St. John's wort or kava have also been tested extensively. To the best of our knowledge, no review to date has provided a comprehensive understanding of the biomolecular mechanisms of action of these herbs or of whether their potential effects could have real benefits. The purpose of this narrative review is to provide an update regarding medicinal plants from the year 2000 to the present to examine the therapeutic potential of these antidepressant-like plants in order to contribute to the development of new therapeutic methods to alleviate the tremendous burden that depression causes worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inés Moragrega
- Departament de Psicobiologia, Facultat de Psicologia, Universitat de València
| | - José Luis Ríos
- Departament de Farmacologia, Facultat de Farmàcia, Universitat de València
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de Souza LB, Tinti SV, Sousa IMDO, Montanari I, da Costa JL, de Carvalho JE, Foglio MA, Ruiz ALTG. Mentha aquatica L. aerial parts: in vitro anti-proliferative evaluation on human tumour and non-tumour cell lines. Nat Prod Res 2021; 36:3117-3123. [PMID: 34142601 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2021.1937152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Bearing in mind the several medicinal properties of Mentha genus, this work aimed to evaluate the anti-proliferative potential of the ethanolic extract (EE) and fractions from M. aquatica L aerial parts. Using the anti-proliferative protocol developed by the NCI/USA, four fractions (F2 - F4 and F6) obtained from EE showed promising anti-proliferative profile against a panel of human tumor and non-tumor cell lines. After 24-h exposure, F2 (0.25 µg/mL) showed potent and irreversible anti-proliferative effect without inducing cell cycle arrest in both NCI-H460 and MCF-7 cells, without (anti) estrogenic activity. These effects were lost after storage of F2 diluted in dimethyl sulfoxide at -80 °C during 2 weeks. Analysis by gas chromatography coupled to mass detection evidenced some chemical changes induced by F2 storage in solution. The present study demonstrated the anti-proliferative effect of M. aquatica. Further studies are necessary to determine better storage conditions to enhance F2 stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Bitencourt de Souza
- Chemical, Biological and Agricultural Pluridisciplinary Research Center (CPQBA), University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Paulínia, Brazil.,Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Piracicaba Dental School, FOP, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Piracicaba, Brazil
| | - Sirlene Valerio Tinti
- Chemical, Biological and Agricultural Pluridisciplinary Research Center (CPQBA), University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Paulínia, Brazil
| | | | - Ilio Montanari
- Chemical, Biological and Agricultural Pluridisciplinary Research Center (CPQBA), University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Paulínia, Brazil
| | - José Luiz da Costa
- LTA, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, FCF, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
| | - João Ernesto de Carvalho
- LAFTEx, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, FCF, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Mary Ann Foglio
- LAFTEx, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, FCF, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, Brazil
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Khumalo GP, Sadgrove NJ, Van Vuuren SF, Van Wyk BE. South Africa's Best BARK Medicines Prescribed at the Johannesburg Muthi Markets for Skin, Gut, and Lung Infections: MIC's and Brine Shrimp Lethality. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:681. [PMID: 34200286 PMCID: PMC8227155 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10060681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Indigenous trade of medicinal plants in South Africa is a multi-million-rand industry and is still highly relevant in terms of primary health care. The purpose of this study was to identify today's most traded medicinal barks, traditionally and contemporaneously used for dermatological, gastrointestinal, and respiratory tract infections; then, to investigate the antimicrobial activity and toxicity of the respective extracts and interpret outcomes in light of pharmacokinetics. Thirty-one popularly traded medicinal barks were purchased from the Faraday and Kwa Mai-Mai markets in Johannesburg, South Africa. Information on the medicinal uses of bark-based medicines in modern commerce was recorded from randomly selected traders. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method was used for antimicrobial screening, and brine shrimp lethality was used to determine toxicity. New medicinal uses were recorded for 14 bark species. Plants demonstrating some broad-spectrum activities against tested bacteria include Elaeodendron transvaalense, Erythrina lysistemon, Garcinia livingstonei, Pterocelastrus rostratus, Rapanea melanophloeos, Schotia brachypetala, Sclerocarya birrea, and Ziziphus mucronata. The lowest MIC value of 0.004 mg/mL was observed against Staphylococcus epidermidis for a dichloromethane bark extract of E. lysistemon. The tested medicinal barks were shown to be non-toxic against the Artemia nauplii (brine shrimp) bioassay, except for a methanol extract from Trichilia emetica (69.52% mortality). Bacterial inhibition of bark extracts with minimal associated toxicity is consistent with the safety and valuable use of medicinal barks for local muthi market customers. Antimicrobial outcomes against skin and gastrointestinal pathogens are feasible because mere contact-inhibition is required in vivo; however, MIC values against respiratory pathogens require further explaining from a pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics perspective, particularly for ingested rather than smoked therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gugulethu P. Khumalo
- Department of Botany and Plant Biotechnology, University of Johannesburg, P.O. Box 524, Auckland Park 2006, South Africa;
| | - Nicholas J. Sadgrove
- Department of Botany and Plant Biotechnology, University of Johannesburg, P.O. Box 524, Auckland Park 2006, South Africa;
- Jodrell Science Laboratory, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 3DS, UK
| | - Sandy F. Van Vuuren
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Park Town 2193, South Africa;
| | - Ben-Erik Van Wyk
- Department of Botany and Plant Biotechnology, University of Johannesburg, P.O. Box 524, Auckland Park 2006, South Africa;
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Manganyi MC, Bezuidenhout CC, Regnier T, Ateba CN. A Chewable Cure "Kanna": Biological and Pharmaceutical Properties of Sceletium tortuosum. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26092557. [PMID: 33924742 PMCID: PMC8124331 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26092557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sceletium tortuosum (L.) N.E.Br. (Mesembryanthemaceae), commonly known as kanna or kougoed, is an effective indigenous medicinal plant in South Africa, specifically to the native San and Khoikhoi tribes. Today, the plant has gained strong global attraction and reputation due to its capabilities to promote a sense of well-being by relieving stress with calming effects. Historically, the plant was used by native San hunter-gatherers and Khoi people to quench their thirst, fight fatigue and for healing, social, and spiritual purposes. Various studies have revealed that extracts of the plant have numerous biological properties and isolated alkaloids of Sceletium tortuosum are currently being used as dietary supplements for medicinal purposes and food. Furthermore, current research has focused on the commercialization of the plant because of its treatment in clinical anxiety and depression, psychological and psychiatric disorders, improving mood, promoting relaxation and happiness. In addition, several studies have focused on the isolation and characterization of various beneficial bioactive compounds including alkaloids from the Sceletium tortuosum plant. Sceletium was reviewed more than a decade ago and new evidence has been published since 2008, substantiating an update on this South African botanical asset. Thus, this review provides an extensive overview of the biological and pharmaceutical properties of Sceletium tortuosum as well as the bioactive compounds with an emphasis on antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, antidepressant, anxiolytic, and other significant biological effects. There is a need to critically evaluate the bioactivities and responsible bioactive compounds, which might assist in reinforcing and confirming the significant role of kanna in the promotion of healthy well-being in these stressful times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madira Coutlyne Manganyi
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Walter Sisulu University, PBX1, Mthatha 5117, South Africa
- Correspondence:
| | - Cornelius Carlos Bezuidenhout
- Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa;
| | - Thierry Regnier
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
| | - Collins Njie Ateba
- Food Security and Safety Niche Area, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Mmabatho, Mafikeng 2735, South Africa;
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Govindasamy H, Magudeeswaran S, Kandasamy S, Poomani K. Binding mechanism of naringenin with monoamine oxidase - B enzyme: QM/MM and molecular dynamics perspective. Heliyon 2021; 7:e06684. [PMID: 33898820 PMCID: PMC8055563 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e06684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The reduced level of dopamine at midbrain (substantia nigra) leads to Parkinson disease by the influence of monoamine oxidation process of monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) enzyme. This disease mostly affects the aged people. Reports outline that the naringenin molecule acts as an inhibitor of MAO-B enzyme and it potentially prevents the development of PD. To elucidate the binding mechanism of naringenin with MAO-B, we performed the molecular docking, QM/MM and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The molecular docking results confirm that the naringenin strongly binds with the substrate binding site of MAO-B enzyme (-12.0 kcal/mol). The low values of RMSD, RMSF and Rg indicate that the naringenin - MAO-B complex is stable over the entire period of MD simulation. Naringenin forms strong interaction with the orient keeper residue Tyr326 and other binding site residues Leu171, Glu206 and these interactions were maintained throughout the MD simulation. It is also important to block the function of MAO-B enzyme. The QM/MM study coupled with the charge density analysis reveals the charge density distribution and the strength of intermolecular interactions of naringenin-MAO-B complex. The above results suggest that this molecule is a potential inhibitor of MAO-B enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hunday Govindasamy
- Laboratory of Biocrystallography and Computational Molecular Biology, Department of Physics, Periyar University, Salem, 636 011, India
| | - Sivanandam Magudeeswaran
- Laboratory of Biocrystallography and Computational Molecular Biology, Department of Physics, Periyar University, Salem, 636 011, India
| | - Saravanan Kandasamy
- Laboratory of Biocrystallography and Computational Molecular Biology, Department of Physics, Periyar University, Salem, 636 011, India
| | - Kumaradhas Poomani
- Laboratory of Biocrystallography and Computational Molecular Biology, Department of Physics, Periyar University, Salem, 636 011, India
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Amoateng P, Tagoe TA, Karikari TK, Kukuia KKE, Osei-Safo D, Woode E, Frenguelli BG, Kombian SB. Synedrella nodiflora Extract Depresses Excitatory Synaptic Transmission and Chemically-Induced In Vitro Seizures in the Rat Hippocampus. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:610025. [PMID: 33762938 PMCID: PMC7982396 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.610025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracts of the tropical Cinderella plant Synedrella nodiflora are used traditionally to manage convulsive conditions in the West African sub-region. This study sought to determine the neuronal basis of the effectiveness of these plant extracts to suppress seizure activity. Using the hippocampal slice preparation from rats, the ability of the extract to depress excitatory synaptic transmission and in vitro seizure activity were investigated. Bath perfusion of the hydro-ethanolic extract of Synedrella nodiflora (SNE) caused a concentration-dependent depression of evoked field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) recorded extracellularly in the CA1 region of the hippocampus with maximal depression of about 80% and an estimated IC50 of 0.06 mg/ml. The SNE-induced fEPSP depression was accompanied by an increase in paired pulse facilitation. The fEPSP depression only recovered partially after 20 min washing out. The effect of SNE was not stimulus dependent as it was present even in the absence of synaptic stimulation. Furthermore, it did not show desensitization as repeat application after 10 min washout produced the same level of fEPSP depression as the first application. The SNE effect on fEPSPs was not via adenosine release as it was neither blocked nor reversed by 8-CPT, an adenosine A1 receptor antagonist. In addition, SNE depressed in vitro seizures induced by zero Mg2+ and high K+ -containing artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF) in a concentration-dependent manner. The results show that SNE depresses fEPSPs and spontaneous bursting activity in hippocampal neurons that may underlie its ability to abort convulsive activity in persons with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Amoateng
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Thomas A Tagoe
- Department of Physiology, UG Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Thomas K Karikari
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kennedy K E Kukuia
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, UG Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Dorcas Osei-Safo
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Eric Woode
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Bruno G Frenguelli
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Samuel B Kombian
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Kuwait University, Safat, Kuwait.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana
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Majumdar S, Gupta S, Prajapati SK, Krishnamurthy S. Neuro-nutraceutical potential of Asparagus racemosus: A review. Neurochem Int 2021; 145:105013. [PMID: 33689806 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Debilitating neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative conditions are associated with complex multifactorial pathophysiology. Their treatment strategies often only provide symptomatic relief, delaying disease progression without giving a complete cure. Potent and safer treatment alternatives beyond symptomatic relief are sought. Herbal supplements have surely been explored due to their multiple component nature to enhance the effect of western medications. One such well-documented nutraceutical in the ancient Greek, Chinese, and Ayurvedic medicine system known for its various medicinal benefits is Asparagus racemosus. Widely used for its lactogenic properties, A. racemosus is also cited in Ayurveda as a nervine tonic. A. racemosus based nutraceuticals have shown to possess adaptogenic, neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and nootropic activity under preclinical and clinical settings without posing significant adverse effects. A. racemosus extracts restore the perturbed neurotransmitters and prevent oxidative neuronal damage. From the available neuropharmacological researches, the physiological actions of A. racemosus can ultimately be directed for either augmentation of cognitive ability or in the management of neurological conditions such as stress, anxiety, depression, epilepsy, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's disease. The studies focus on the multi-component extract, and the lack of standardization has been a major hurdle in preventing the allotment of reported neuropharmacological activity to one of the phytoconstituent. Herbal standardization of the plant extract based on a specific biomarker can help elucidate the intricate biomolecular pathway and neurocircuitries being involved. This, followed by rigorous standardized clinical trials, fixing dosages, and determining contraindications would facilitate the translation of A. racemosus to a FDA-approved neuromedicine for neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreyasi Majumdar
- Neurotherapeutics Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, 221005, India
| | - Smriti Gupta
- Neurotherapeutics Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, 221005, India
| | - Santosh Kumar Prajapati
- Neurotherapeutics Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, 221005, India
| | - Sairam Krishnamurthy
- Neurotherapeutics Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi, 221005, India.
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Maphanga VB, Skalicka-Woźniak K, Budzynska B, Enslin GM, Viljoen AM. Screening selected medicinal plants for potential anxiolytic activity using an in vivo zebrafish model. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2020; 237:3641-3652. [PMID: 32840669 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-020-05642-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Medicinal plants are used extensively in many countries to treat conditions related to the central nervous system (CNS), and there is renewed interest to explore natural products, which may exhibit CNS activity. OBJECTIVE In this study, seven plants were selected based on literature reports of their ethnopharmacological use in treating anxiety-related conditions and assayed in a zebrafish model. METHODS Crude extracts were prepared with solvents of different polarities, and the maximum tolerated concentration (MTC) of these crude extracts was established. The anxiolytic activity of the crude extracts was determined using 5-day post-fertilization (dpf) zebrafish larvae. General locomotor activity and reverse-thigmotaxis behavior (indicative of anxiolytic activity) were analyzed under continuous illumination and alternating light-dark challenges, which induced anxiety in the zebrafish larvae. RESULTS Of the 28 extracts tested, 13 were toxic according to the MTC values obtained. Larvae were subsequently treated with the 15 non-toxic extracts, at a dose determined in the MTC assay or with 1% DMSO as control. The anxiolytic activity (reverse-thigmotaxis) was demonstrated by an increase in the percentage time spent by the larvae in the central arena of the well. Of the 15 non-toxic extracts tested, the Sceletium tortuosum water extract exhibited the most promising anxiolytic activity. CONCLUSIONS The zebrafish model was effective in studying anxiety-related behavior. Thus, the study confirmed that S. tortuosum mitigates anxiety in zebrafish larvae, a step towards the full in vivo validation of the traditional use of the plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica B Maphanga
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
| | - Krystyna Skalicka-Woźniak
- Department of Pharmacognosy with Medicinal Plant Unit, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chodzki Street, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Barbara Budzynska
- Independent Laboratory of Behavioral Studies, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego 4, 20-090, Lublin, Poland
| | - Gill M Enslin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
| | - Alvaro M Viljoen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa. .,SAMRC Herbal Drugs Research Unit, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa.
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Kareti SR, Pharm SM. In Silico Molecular Docking Analysis of Potential Anti-Alzheimer's Compounds Present in Chloroform Extract of Carissa carandas Leaf Using Gas Chromatography MS/MS. CURRENT THERAPEUTIC RESEARCH 2020; 93:100615. [PMID: 33306055 PMCID: PMC7708940 DOI: 10.1016/j.curtheres.2020.100615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Background: The current treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is far from adequate. AD can be treated by inhibiting either β-amyloid protein deposition or acetylcholinesterase enzyme activity. Many treatments for AD are directed at these 2 targets. In the present study, the phytoconstituents of Carissa carandas chloroform leaf extract were identified by gas chromatography-MS/MS analysis, and in silico molecular docking studies were performed to evaluate their potential against AD. Objectives: The present study aimed to identify the possible anti-Alzheimer's activity of novel phytoconstituents isolated from C carandas. Methods: The powdered leafy material was subjected to successive Soxhlet extraction using 3 different solvents: n-hexane, chloroform, and methanol. The chloroform extract was subjected to gas chromatography-MS/MS analysis, and the observed chromatogram revealed the presence of 48 chemical constituents. Among them, 42 new phytoconstituents are reported in this plant for the first time. The gas chromatography-MS/MS-identified phytoconstituents were evaluated by iGEMDOCK software against AD targets of β-amyloid fibril (protein data bank ID: 2LMN) and recombinant human acetylcholinesterase (protein data bank ID: 3LII) ligands, and their anti-AD potential were compared with those of known inhibitors of galantamine and curcumin. Results: On the basis of results from both docking assays, the 5 compounds with the highest docking energy were further analyzed using in silico admetSAR web portal modeling for the evaluation of parameters such as intestinal absorption, blood-brain barrier permeation, carcinogenicity, and acute oral toxicity. Conclusions: The chloroform leaf extract of C carandas was found to contain constituents that have affinities for the 2 targets tested; that is, amyloid β and acetylcholinesterase. The best docking scores were found for 7 compounds: 1-heneicosanol; N-nonadecanol-1; cholesta-4,6-dien-3-ol, (3beta); di-n-octyl phthalate; 7,9-di-tert-butyl-1-oxaspiro(4,5)deca-6,9-diene-2,8-dione; 6-undecyl-5,6-dihydro-2H-pyran-2-one, and phenol, 2,4-di-t-butyl-6-nitro compounds, and these compounds were therefore suggested to be promising anti-AD lead compounds. Further, the target leads were subjected to ligplot analysis for their 2-dimensional representation of hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions. Thus, the results obtained from the in silico study of C carandas leaf extract using these computational approaches indicate the presence of phytoconstituents that have affinities for the selected 2 targets of AD. (Curr Ther Res Clin Exp. 2020; 81:XXX-XXX).
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinivasa Rao Kareti
- Department of Pharmacy, Indira Gandhi National Tribal University, Amarkantak, India
| | - Subash M. Pharm
- Department of Pharmacy, Indira Gandhi National Tribal University, Amarkantak, India
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Faber RJ, Laubscher CP, Rautenbach F, Jimoh MO. Variabilities in alkaloid concentration of Sceletium tortuosum (L.) N.E. Br in response to different soilless growing media and fertigation regimes in hydroponics. Heliyon 2020; 6:e05479. [PMID: 33235938 PMCID: PMC7670209 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was designed to investigate the variations in alkaloid concentrations of Sceletium tortuosum when grown in soilless mediums under different fertigation regimes and to examine the suitability of the plant for hydroponic cultivation. A mother plant obtained from Verve Dynamics (Pty) Ltd (a manufacturer and supplier of purified botanical extracts) was cultivated into three hundred plants used for this research study. Twenty treatments were evaluated with 15 sample replicates. Treatments were made up of 4 different soilless growing media, namely: pure silica sand, 50% silica sand with 50% coco-peat, 50% silica sand with 50% vermiculite, and 50% silica sand with 50% perlite. These growing media were tested in conjunction with 5 different fertigation regimes (FR). Plants grown in FR1 received aqueous nutrient solution once every week, FR2 received aqueous nutrient solution once every second week, FR3 received aqueous nutrient solution once every third week, FR4 received aqueous nutrient solution once every fourth week and FR5 received aqueous nutrient solution once every fifth week respectively. Results from this experiment showed that different soilless growing media and fertigation had varying effects on alkaloid concentrations in S. tortuosum. It was also observed that roots contained higher amounts of delta 7 mesembrenone and mesembrenone, while shoots contained higher amounts of the alkaloid mesembrine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard James Faber
- Department of Horticultural Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Bellville 7537, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Charles Petrus Laubscher
- Department of Horticultural Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Bellville 7537, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Fanie Rautenbach
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Bellville 7537, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Muhali Olaide Jimoh
- Department of Horticultural Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Bellville 7537, Cape Town, South Africa
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Pharmacology of Herbal Sexual Enhancers: A Review of Psychiatric and Neurological Adverse Effects. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:ph13100309. [PMID: 33066617 PMCID: PMC7602496 DOI: 10.3390/ph13100309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual enhancers increase sexual potency, sexual pleasure, or libido. Substances increasing libido alter the concentrations of specific neurotransmitters or sex hormones in the central nervous system. Interestingly, the same pathways are involved in the mechanisms underlying many psychiatric and neurological disorders, and adverse reactions associated with the use of aphrodisiacs are strongly expected. However, sexual enhancers of plant origin have gained popularity over recent years, as natural substances are often regarded as a safer alternative to modern medications and are easily acquired without prescription. We reviewed the psychiatric and neurological adverse effects associated with the consumption of herbal aphrodisiacs Areca catechu L., Argemone Mexicana L., Citrus aurantium L., Eurycoma longifolia Jack., Lepidium meyenii Walp., Mitragyna speciosa Korth., Panax ginseng C. A. Mey, Panax quinquefolius L., Pausinystalia johimbe (K. Schum.) Pierre ex Beille, Piper methysticum G. Forst., Ptychopetalum olacoides Benth., Sceletium tortuosum (L.) N. E. Brown, Turnera diffusa Willd. ex. Schult., Voacanga africana Stapf ex Scott-Elliot, and Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal. A literature search was conducted on the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases with the aim of identifying all the relevant articles published on the issue up to June 2020. Most of the selected sexual enhancers appeared to be safe at therapeutic doses, although mild to severe adverse effects may occur in cases of overdosing or self-medication with unstandardized products. Drug interactions are more concerning, considering that herbal aphrodisiacs are likely used together with other plant extracts and/or pharmaceuticals. However, few data are available on the side effects of several plants included in this review, and more clinical studies with controlled administrations should be conducted to address this issue.
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Coimbra AT, Ferreira S, Duarte AP. Genus Ruta: A natural source of high value products with biological and pharmacological properties. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 260:113076. [PMID: 32534112 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Ruta genus is constituted by ten species, of which the most commonly described are R. chalepensis and R. graveolens. Ruta plants are perennial shrubs belonging to the family Rutaceae, which are traditionally used in folk medicine, since ancient times mostly for the treatment of various ailments of the womb. AIM OF THE STUDY To provide a review of the different uses of Ruta species in traditional medicine, as well as, on their multifactorial biological and pharmacological properties. MATERIAL AND METHODS A search of the literature on genus Ruta and Ruta species was performed using various scientific databases and search engines and the information of articles were reviewed and compiled. RESULTS Different parts of the plants belonging to Ruta genus are used in folk medicine to treat a wide range of different diseases. The principal use of these is in gynaecological field, but the treatment of pain, fever, nausea, inflammation, infections, nervous disorders, among others, are also described. These plants have been used to fertility regulation, as anti-fertility agent, to control menstrual flux and bleedings, as abortifacient and as contraceptive. The phytochemical composition of these plants consists mainly in essential oil (EO), but phenolic compounds were also reported, like coumarins and flavonoids, as well as alkaloids. Ruta species products like extracts and EOs have shown broad pharmacological activities, such as antimicrobial and antifungal activities, as well as, antiviral and antiparasitic. Moreover, Ruta plants products present antioxidant, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and anti-diabetic activities and demonstrated contraceptive and abortifacient effects. These plants were also tested to be used for non-therapeutic approaches, as bio-insecticides in the control of different insect pests showing to be able to reduce infestation. CONCLUSIONS Ruta species could be a potential source of natural products with biological activities. Ruta extracts, essential oils and isolated compounds have shown a diverse potential for use in the treatment of different diseases, as well as, for pests control, contributing to the valorisation of these plants. Nonetheless, this review indicates that more studies are needed to demonstrate the full potential of Ruta species, and to further explore the toxicology and safety of these plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra T Coimbra
- CICS-UBI Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Susana Ferreira
- CICS-UBI Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Ana Paula Duarte
- CICS-UBI Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506, Covilhã, Portugal.
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Colucci-D'Amato L, Cimaglia G. Ruta graveolens as a potential source of neuroactive compounds to promote and restore neural functions. J Tradit Complement Med 2020; 10:309-314. [PMID: 32670826 PMCID: PMC7340976 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcme.2020.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Nutraceuticals had always been known for their therapeutic effects in ancient medicine and had been the primary healing remedy until the introduction of modern chemistry and pharmacology. However, their use has not been dismissed but actually is acquiring a new acclamation among the scientific community especially for their efficacy on the Central Nervous System (CNS). Molecular mechanisms of the most common neurodegenerative diseases are now being uncovered and along with that the molecules that drive the neurodegenerative processes. It is not surprising that some natural compounds can interact with those molecules and interfere with the pathological pathways halting the cascades that ultimately lead to neuronal cell death. The plant Ruta graveolens has gained increased attention in medicinal chemistry due to its beneficial role to treat a variety of human diseases and also because of the presence of a huge number of compounds belonging to different classes of natural products, including neuroactive compounds potentially able to promote neuroprotection. Among all the components of the plant extract, rutin – which is highly, if not the most, abundant – positively interacts with the neurophysiology of the CNS too, being particularly efficient against neurotoxicity. Rutin, has proven to be protective in a variety of experimental settings of neurodegeneration. Finally, it has been shown that the water extract of Ruta graveolens (RGWE) induces death of glioblastoma cells but not of neuronal cells. Moreover, it also fosters cell cycle re-entry and differentiation of neuronal cells. This peculiarity represents a promising tool to promote neural plasticity in pathological conditions. Traditional therapeutic use of the plant Ruta graveolens in a large variety of illnesses. It has been used, together with its main component rutin to treat some neurodegenerative diseases. It might own compounds able to foster plasticity in neural cells. It is able to kill neural cancer cells but not neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Colucci-D'Amato
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology (DiSTABiF), University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy.,InterUniversity Center for Research in Neuroscience (CIRN), Napoli, Italy
| | - Gloria Cimaglia
- School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karoliska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Amaryllidaceae Alkaloids of Belladine-Type from Narcissus pseudonarcissus cv. Carlton as New Selective Inhibitors of Butyrylcholinesterase. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10050800. [PMID: 32455879 PMCID: PMC7277649 DOI: 10.3390/biom10050800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Thirteen known (1-12 and 16) and three previously undescribed Amaryllidaceae alkaloids of belladine structural type, named carltonine A-C (13-15), were isolated from bulbs of Narcissus pseudonarcissus cv. Carlton (Amaryllidaceae) by standard chromatographic methods. Compounds isolated in sufficient amounts, and not tested previously, were evaluated for their in vitro acetylcholinesterase (AChE; E.C. 3.1.1.7), butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE; E.C. 3.1.1.8) and prolyl oligopeptidase (POP; E.C. 3.4.21.26) inhibition activities. Significant human BuChE (hBUChE) inhibitory activity was demonstrated by newly described alkaloids carltonine A (13) and carltonine B (14) with IC50 values of 913 ± 20 nM and 31 ± 1 nM, respectively. Both compounds displayed a selective inhibition pattern for hBuChE with an outstanding selectivity profile over AChE inhibition, higher than 100. The in vitro data were further supported by in silico studies of the active alkaloids 13 and 14 in the active site of hBuChE.
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Impact of Natural Compounds on Neurodegenerative Disorders: From Preclinical to Pharmacotherapeutics. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9041061. [PMID: 32276438 PMCID: PMC7231062 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9041061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Among the major neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs), Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD), are a huge socioeconomic burden. Over many centuries, people have sought a cure for NDDs from the natural herbals. Many medicinal plants and their secondary metabolites are reported with the ability to alleviate the symptoms of NDDs. The major mechanisms identified, through which phytochemicals exert their neuroprotective effects and potential maintenance of neurological health in ageing, include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic, antiapoptotic, acetylcholinesterase and monoamine oxidase inhibition and neurotrophic activities. This article reviews the mechanisms of action of some of the major herbal products with potential in the treatment of NDDs according to their molecular targets, as well as their regional sources (Asia, America and Africa). A number of studies demonstrated the beneficial properties of plant extracts or their bioactive compounds against NDDs. Herbal products may potentially offer new treatment options for patients with NDDs, which is a cheaper and culturally suitable alternative to conventional therapies for millions of people in the world with age-related NDDs.
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Effects of mixed crushed caraway (Carum carvi) with chromium-methionine or zinc-methionine supplementations on serum components and physiological responses of lambs subjected to transportation stress. Small Rumin Res 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2019.106040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Brillatz T, Jacmin M, Queiroz EF, Marcourt L, Slacanin I, Petit C, Carrupt PA, Bum EN, Herrling P, Crawford AD, Wolfender JL. Zebrafish bioassay-guided isolation of antiseizure compounds from the Cameroonian medicinal plant Cyperus articulatus L. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 70:153175. [PMID: 32302934 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2020.153175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder affecting more than 50 million people worldwide, of whom 80% live in low- and middle-income countries. Due to the limited availability of antiseizure drugs (ASDs) in these countries, medicinal plants are the first-line treatment for most epilepsy patients. In Cameroon, a decoction of Cyperus articulatus L. rhizomes is traditionally used to treat epilepsy. PURPOSE The aim of this study was to identify and isolate the active compounds responsible for the antiseizure activity of C. articulatus in order to confirm both its traditional medicinal usage and previous in vivo studies on extracts of this plant in mouse epilepsy models. METHODS The dried rhizomes of C. articulatus were extracted with solvents of increasing polaritie (hexane, dichloromethane, methanol and water). A traditional decoction and an essential oil were also prepared. These extracts were evaluated for antiseizure activity using a larval zebrafish seizure model with seizures induced by the GABAA antagonist pentylenetetrazole (PTZ). The hexane extract demonstrated the highest antiseizure activity and was therefore selected for bioassay-guided fractionation. The isolated bioactive compounds were characterized by classical spectroscopic methods. Since they were found to be volatile, they were quantified by GC-FID. In addition, the absorption of the active compounds through the gastrointestinal tract and the blood-brain barrier was evaluated using a hexadecane and a blood-brain barrier parallel artificial membrane permeability assays (HDM-PAMPA and PAMPA-BBB). RESULTS The hexane extract of C. articulatus exhibited the highest antiseizure activity with a reduction of 93% of PTZ-induced seizures, and was therefore subjected to bioassay-guided fractionation in order to isolate the active principles. Four sesquiterpenoids were identified as cyperotundone (1), mustakone (2), 1,2-dehydro-α-cyperone (3) and sesquichamaenol (4) and exhibited significant antiseizure activity. These volatile compounds were quantified by GC in the hexane extract, the essential oil and the simulated traditional decoction. In addition, the constituents of the hexane extract including compounds 1 and 2 were found to cross the gastrointestinal barrier and the major compound 2 crossed the blood-brain barrier as well. CONCLUSION These results highlight the antiseizure activity of various sesquiterpene compounds from a hexane extract of C. articulatus dried rhizomes and support its use as a traditional treatment for epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Théo Brillatz
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, CMU - Rue Michel-Servet 1, Geneva 4 CH-1211, Switzerland
| | - Maxime Jacmin
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, Université du Luxembourg, 6, avenue du Swing, Belvaux 4367, Luxembourg; Theracule S.á r.l., 9, avenue des Hauts-Fourneaux, Belval 4362, Luxembourg
| | - Emerson Ferreira Queiroz
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, CMU - Rue Michel-Servet 1, Geneva 4 CH-1211, Switzerland
| | - Laurence Marcourt
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, CMU - Rue Michel-Servet 1, Geneva 4 CH-1211, Switzerland
| | - Ivan Slacanin
- ILIS Institut & Laboratory, Chemin de la Passerelle 17, Bienne CH-2503, Switzerland
| | - Charlotte Petit
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, CMU - Rue Michel-Servet 1, Geneva 4 CH-1211, Switzerland
| | - Pierre-Alain Carrupt
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, CMU - Rue Michel-Servet 1, Geneva 4 CH-1211, Switzerland
| | - Elisabeth Ngo Bum
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, University of Ngaoundéré, P.O. Box 454, Ngaoundéré, Cameroon
| | - Paul Herrling
- Novartis Pharma Ltd., Research, Basel CH-4002, Switzerland
| | - Alexander D Crawford
- Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine, Université du Luxembourg, 6, avenue du Swing, Belvaux 4367, Luxembourg; Theracule S.á r.l., 9, avenue des Hauts-Fourneaux, Belval 4362, Luxembourg; Department of Preclinical Sciences & Pathology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ullevålsveien 72, Oslo 0454, Norway
| | - Jean-Luc Wolfender
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, CMU - Rue Michel-Servet 1, Geneva 4 CH-1211, Switzerland.
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Khan AU, Akram M, Daniyal M, Akhter N, Riaz M, Akhtar N, Shariati MA, Anjum F, Khan SG, Parveen A, Ahmad S. Awareness and current knowledge of epilepsy. Metab Brain Dis 2020; 35:45-63. [PMID: 31605258 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-019-00494-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is a severe neural disorder that affects approximately fifty million individuals globally. Despite the fact that for most of the people with epilepsy, convulsions are better controlled by current accessible antiepileptic medicines, yet there are more than 30% of individuals affected with medically intractable epilepsy and around 30-40% of all patients with epilepsy affected by many adverse reactions and convulsion resistance to the present antiepileptic drugs. Consequently, various scientists attempt to develop new strategies to treat epilepsy, for instance, to find out novel antiepileptic ingredients from traditional medicines. This work aims to present a complete summary of natural medicines prescribed as antiepileptic agents all over the world by ethnic groups and different tribes. We undertook an extensive bibliographic analysis by searching peer reviewed papers and classical textbooks and further consulting well accepted worldwide scientific databases. We carried out PubMed, EMbase and CENTRAL searches by means of terms such as "antiepileptic" and "anti-convulsant" activity of plants. Medicinal plants have been prescribed to treat epilepsy and have been recognized as antiepileptic medicines. In this review, a variety of herbs have been reviewed for thorough studies such as Cuminum cyminum, Butea monosperma, Solanum americanum, Anacyclus pyrethrum, Leonotis leonurus, Elaeocarpus ganitrus and Angelica archangelica. This paper shows that it was high time experimental studies are increased to obtain novel potential active principles from medicinal plants. Plant extracts and their chemical constituents should be further evaluated to clarify their mechanisms of action. This paper provides a solid base upon which to further investigate the clinical efficacy of medicinal plants that are both currently prescribed by physicians as traditional antiepileptic agents, but also could be effective as an antiepileptic drug with further research and study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmat Ullah Khan
- Department of Eastern Medicine, The University of Poonch, Rawalakot, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Akram
- Department of Eastern Medicine, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Daniyal
- TCM and Ethnomedicine Innovation & Development International Laboratory, Innovative Materia Medica Research Institute, School of Pharmacy, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Naheed Akhter
- College of Allied Health Professional, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Riaz
- Department of Allied Health Sciences, Sargodha Medical College, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan
| | - Naheed Akhtar
- Department of Pharmacy, The University of Poonch, Rawalakot, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan
| | - Mohammad Ali Shariati
- Kazakh Research Institute of Processing and Food industry (Semey branch), Semey, Kazakhstan
| | - Fozia Anjum
- Department of Chemistry, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Samreen Gul Khan
- Department of Chemistry, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Abida Parveen
- Department of Botany, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Saeed Ahmad
- University College of Agriculture, University of Sargodha, Sargodha, Pakistan.
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Makolo F, Viljoen A, Veale CGL. Mesembrine: The archetypal psycho-active Sceletium alkaloid. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2019; 166:112061. [PMID: 31299396 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2019.112061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/30/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
(-)-Mesembrine is a chiral alkaloid that features an aryloctahydroindole skeleton and is most commonly found in species of the succulent genus Sceletium. Several Sceletium species are used by various ethnic groups in South Africa to manage disorders of the central nervous system. Binding assays have revealed that mesembrine is a more potent inhibitor of the serotonin transporter (SERT) than fluoxetine (Prozac) which has prompted the commercialization of mesembrine-containing consumer products. The congested all carbon quaternary stereocenter present at the bridgehead of mesembrine has rendered it a compound of interest for research in synthetic chemistry, which has assisted in the absolute configuration of the naturally occurring isomer to be assigned. Accordingly, this review will cover the recent literature pertaining to the distribution, structural elucidation, chemotaxonomy, biosynthesis, organic synthesis, as well as the biological activities of (-)-mesembrine. Recent synthetic procedures of the non-natural enantiomer as well as the racemate are also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix Makolo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
| | - Alvaro Viljoen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa; SAMRC Herbal Drugs Research Unit, Faculty of Science, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
| | - Clinton G L Veale
- School of Chemistry and Physics, Pietermaritzburg Campus, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, 3209, South Africa.
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Yellanur Konda P, Egi JY, Dasari S, Katepogu R, Jaiswal KK, Nagarajan P. Ameliorative effects of Mentha aquatica on diabetic and nephroprotective potential activities in STZ-induced renal injury. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s00580-019-03042-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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Panche AN, Chandra S, Diwan AD. Multi-Target β-Protease Inhibitors from Andrographis paniculata: In Silico and In Vitro Studies. PLANTS 2019; 8:plants8070231. [PMID: 31319560 PMCID: PMC6681301 DOI: 10.3390/plants8070231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Natural products derived from plants play a vital role in the discovery of new drug candidates, and these are used for novel therapeutic drug development. Andrographis paniculata and Spilanthes paniculata are used extensively as medicinal herbs for the treatment of various ailments, and are reported to have neuroprotective properties. β-amyloid is a microscopic brain protein whose significant aggregation is detected in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) brains. The accumulation of β-amyloid disrupts cell communication and triggers inflammation by activating immune cells, leading to neuronal cell death and cognitive disabilities. The proteases acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and beta secretase-1 (BACE-1) have been reported to be correlated with the synthesis and growth of β-amyloid plaques in the brains of AD patients. In the present study, the phenolic compounds from A. paniculata and S. paniculata that have been reported in the literature were selected for the current investigation. Furthermore, we employed molecular docking and molecular dynamics studies of the phenolic compounds with the proteins AChE, BChE, and BACE-1 in order to evaluate the binding characteristics and identify potent anti-amyloid agents against the neurodegenerative diseases such as AD. In this investigation, we predicted three compounds from A. paniculata with maximum binding affinities with cholinesterases and BACE-1. The computational investigations predicted that these compounds follow the rule of five. We further evaluated these molecules for in vitro inhibition activity against all the enzymes. In the in vitro investigations, 3,4-di-o-caffeoylquinic acid (5281780), apigenin (5280443), and 7-o-methylwogonin (188316) were found to be strong inhibitors of AChE, BChE, and BACE-1. These findings suggest that these compounds can be potent multi-target inhibitors of the proteases that might cumulatively work and inhibit the initiation and formation of β-amyloid plaques, which is a prime cause of neurotoxicity and dementia. According to our knowledge, these findings are the first report on natural compounds isolated from A. paniculata as multi-target potent inhibitors and anti-amyloid agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archana N Panche
- Department of Bio-Engineering, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi 835215, India
- MGM's Institute of Biosciences & Technology, Mahatma Gandhi Mission, N-6, CIDCO, Aurangabad 431003, India
| | - Sheela Chandra
- Department of Bio-Engineering, Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi 835215, India.
| | - A D Diwan
- MGM's Institute of Biosciences & Technology, Mahatma Gandhi Mission, N-6, CIDCO, Aurangabad 431003, India
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Mabaleha MB, Zietsman PC, Wilhelm A, Bonnet SL. Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal Plants Used to Treat Mental Illnesses in the Berea, Leribe, and Maseru Districts of Lesotho. Nat Prod Commun 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x19864215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mental illnesses (MIs) such as anxiety, epilepsy, major depression, schizophrenia, sleep disorder, and pain influence the quality of life severely. According to the World Health Organization Atlas for Mental Health (2014), the formal health sector in Lesotho has only 13.7 mental health workers per 100 000 of the population, which breaks down to 0.1 psychiatrist and other medical doctors, 0.3 psychologists, 4.7 nurses, and 5.2 social workers. Traditional health practitioners (THPs) have always played a significant role in the prevention and treatment of MIs, via utilization of Lesotho’s vast diversity of plants. This investigation aims to determine which medicinal plants are used for the treatment of MIs in the Berea, Leribe, and Maseru districts of Lesotho. A combination of unstructured and semistructured one-on-one interviews were conducted with 27 THPs. They were interviewed about the status of MIs in Lesotho, diagnostic methods, medicinal plants used, and preparation and administration of the herbal remedies in the treatment of MIs. A total of 43 different plant species (indigenous and exotic) were indicated by the THPs as commonly used to treat neurological disorders. With the exception of one unidentified plant, the plants represented 26 families and 42 genera. The most common families are the Asteraceae (9 species), Fabaceae (5 species), and Rosaceae (3 species). The most cited plant species were Morella serrata (Myricaceae) (26%), followed by Xysmalobium undulatum (Asclepiadaceae) (22%), and Afroaster hispidus (Asteraceae) (15%). This survey provides, for the first time, a database of Lesotho’s medicinal plants that are used to treat MIs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anke Wilhelm
- Department of Chemistry, University of the Free State, South Africa
| | - Susan L. Bonnet
- Department of Chemistry, University of the Free State, South Africa
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