Eugenol suppressed the expression of lipopolysaccharide-induced proinflammatory mediators in human macrophages

In vitro antiviral activity of eugenol on Singapore grouper iridovirus

The high mortality rate of Singapore grouper iridovirus (SGIV) posing a serious threat to the grouper aquaculture industry and causing significant economic losses. Therefore, finding effective drugs against SGIV is of great significance. Eugenol (C10H12O2) is a phenolic aromatic compound, has been widely studied for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiviral capacity. In this study, we explored the effect of eugenol on SGIV infection and its possible mechanisms using grouper spleen cells (GS) as an in vitro model. We found that treatment of GS cells with 100 μM eugenol for 4 h exhibited the optimal inhibitory effect on SGIV. Eugenol was able to reduce the expression level of inflammatory factors by inhibiting the activation of MAPK pathway and also inhibited the activity of NF-κB and AP-1 promoter. On the other hand, eugenol attenuated cellular oxidative stress by reducing intracellular ROS and promoted the expression of interferon-related genes. Therefore, we conclude that eugenol inhibits SGIV infection by enhancing cellular immunity through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant functions.

Pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic, toxicity, and recent advances in Eugenol's potential benefits against natural and chemical noxious agents: A mechanistic review

The active biological phytochemicals, crucial compounds employed in creating hundreds of medications, are derived from valuable and medicinally significant plants. These phytochemicals offer excellent protection from various illnesses, including inflammatory disorders and chronic conditions caused by oxidative stress. A phenolic monoterpenoid known as eugenol (EUG), it is typically found in the essential oils of many plant species from the Myristicaceae, Myrtaceae, Lamiaceae, and Lauraceae families. One of the main ingredients of clove oil (Syzygium aromaticum (L.), Myrtaceae), it has several applications in industry, including flavoring food, pharmaceutics, dentistry, agriculture, and cosmeceuticals. Due to its excellent potential for avoiding many chronic illnesses, it has lately attracted attention. EUG has been classified as a nonmutant, generally acknowledged as a safe (GRAS) chemical by the World Health Organization (WHO). According to the existing research, EUG possesses notable anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, antibacterial, antispasmodic, and apoptosis-promoting properties, which have lately gained attention for its ability to control chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial malfunction and dramatically impact human wellness. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the scientific evidence from the most significant research studies that have been published regarding the protective role and detoxifying effects of EUG against a wide range of toxins, including biological and chemical toxins, as well as different drugs and pesticides that produce a variety of toxicities, throughout view of the possible advantages of EUG.

Mechanism of action of certain medicinal plants for the treatment of asthma

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Asthma is often treated and prevented using the pharmacological properties of traditional medicinal plants. These healthcare systems are among the most well-known, conveniently accessible, and economically priced in India and several other Asian countries. Traditional Indian Ayurvedic plants have the potential to be used as phyto-therapeutics, to create novel anti-asthmatic drugs, and as a cost-effective source of pharmaceuticals. Current conventional therapies have drawbacks, including serious side effects and expensive costs that interfere with treatment compliance and affect the patient's quality of life. The primary objective of the article is to comprehensively evaluate the advancement of research on the protective phytochemicals of traditional plants that target immune responses and signaling cascades in inflammatory experimental asthma models. The study would assist in paving the way for the creation of natural phytomedicines that are protective, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory against asthma, which may then be used in individualized asthma therapy.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The study demonstrates the mechanisms of action of phytochemicals present in traditional medicinal plants, diminish pulmonary disorder in both in vivo and in vitro models of asthma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A comprehensive review of the literature on conventional plant-based asthma therapies was performed from 2006 to 2022. The study uses authoritative scientific sources such as PubMed, PubChem Compound, Wiley Online Library, Science Direct, Springer Link, and Google Scholar to collect information on potential phytochemicals and their mechanisms of action. World Flora Online (http://www.worldfloraonline.org) and Plants of the World Online (https://wcsp.science.kew.org) databases were used for the scientific names of medicinal plants.

RESULTS

The study outlines the phytochemical mechanisms of some traditional Ayurveda botanicals used to treat asthma. Active phytochemicals including curcumin, withaferin-A, piperine, glabridin, glycyrrhizin, 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid, trans-cinnamaldehyde, α-hederin, thymoquinone, eugenol, [6]-shogoal, and gingerol may treat asthma by controlling inflammation and airway remodeling. The study concluded that certain Ayurvedic plants' phytochemicals have the ability to reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system, that can effectively cure asthma.

CONCLUSION

Plants used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine have been utilized for millennia, advocating phyto-therapy as a treatment for a variety of illnesses. A theoretical foundation for the use of cutting-edge asthma treatments has been built with the growth of experimental research on traditional phytochemicals. In-depth phytochemical research for the treatment of asthma using Indian Traditional Ayurvedic herbs is compiled in the study. The approach for preventative therapeutics and cutting-edge alternatives to battle the molecular pathways in the pathophysiology of asthma are the key themes of the study. The phytochemical mechanism of action of traditional Ayurvedic herbs is explained to get the attention of the pharmaceutical industry so they can make future anti-asthma drugs for personalized asthma care in the community. The study develops strategies for customized phyto-therapeutics, concentrating on low-cost, side-effect-free approaches that employ bioactive phytochemicals from plants as the major source of effective anti-asthmatic therapy.

Modulation of Alveolar Macrophage Activity by Eugenol Attenuates Cigarette-Smoke-Induced Acute Lung Injury in Mice

This study investigates the role of eugenol (EUG) on CS-induced acute lung injury (ALI) and how this compound is able to modulate macrophage activity. C57BL/6 mice were exposed to 12 cigarettes/day/5days and treated 15 min/day/5days with EUG. Rat alveolar macrophages (RAMs) were exposed to CSE (5%) and treated with EUG. In vivo, EUG reduced morphological changes inflammatory cells, oxidative stress markers, while, in vitro, it induced balance in the oxidative stress and reduced the pro-inflammatory cytokine release while increasing the anti-inflammatory one. These results suggest that eugenol reduced CS-induced ALI and acted as a modulator of macrophage activity.

Green Alternatives as Antimicrobial Agents in Mitigating Periodontal Diseases: A Narrative Review

Periodontal diseases and dental caries are the most common infectious oral diseases impacting oral health globally. Oral cavity health is crucial for enhancing life quality since it serves as the entranceway to general health. The oral microbiome and oral infectious diseases are strongly correlated. Gram-negative anaerobic bacteria have been associated with periodontal diseases. Due to the shortcomings of several antimicrobial medications frequently applied in dentistry, the lack of resources in developing countries, the prevalence of oral inflammatory conditions, and the rise in bacterial antibiotic resistance, there is a need for reliable, efficient, and affordable alternative solutions for the prevention and treatment of periodontal diseases. Several accessible chemical agents can alter the oral microbiota, although these substances also have unfavorable symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and tooth discoloration. Natural phytochemicals generated from plants that have historically been used as medicines are categorized as prospective alternatives due to the ongoing quest for substitute products. This review concentrated on phytochemicals or herbal extracts that impact periodontal diseases by decreasing the formation of dental biofilms and plaques, preventing the proliferation of oral pathogens, and inhibiting bacterial adhesion to surfaces. Investigations examining the effectiveness and safety of plant-based medicines have also been presented, including those conducted over the past decade.

Immunomodulatory Effects of Endodontic Sealers: A Systematic Review

Inflammation is a crucial step prior to healing, and the regulatory effects of endodontic materials on the immune response can influence tissue repair. This review aimed to answer whether endodontic sealers can modulate the immune cells and inflammation. An electronic search in Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases were performed. This systematic review was mainly based on PRISMA guidelines, and the risk of bias was evaluated by SYRCLEs and the Modified CONSORT checklist for in vivo and in vitro studies, respectively. In total, 28 articles: 22 in vitro studies, and six in vivo studies were included in this systematic review. AH Plus and AH 26 can down-regulate iNOS mRNA, while S-PRG sealers can down-regulate p65 of NF-κB pathways to inhibit the production of TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-6. In vitro and in vivo studies suggested that various endodontic sealers exhibited immunomodulatory impact in macrophages polarization and inflammatory cytokine production, which could promote healing, tissue repair, and inhibit inflammation. Since the paradigm change from immune inert biomaterials to bioactive materials, endodontic materials, particularly sealers, are required to have modulatory effects in clinical conditions. New generations of endodontic sealers could hamper detrimental inflammatory responses and maintain periodontal tissue, which represent a breakthrough in biocompatibility and functionality of endodontic biomaterials.

Effects of eugenol on the behavioral and pathological progression in the MPTP-induced Parkinson's disease mouse model

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the world's second most common neurological disorder. Oxidative stress and neuroinflammation play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of PD. Eugenol is a phytochemical with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. The present investigation is aimed to study the effect of eugenol in a 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) induced mouse model of PD and its relationship to antioxidant effect. The effects of seven days of oral pre-treatment and post-treatment with three doses of eugenol (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg/day) were investigated against the MPTP-induced PD mouse model. In addition to the assessment of behavioural parameters using various tests (actophotometer, beam walking test, catalepsy, rearing, rotarod), biochemical parameters including lipid peroxidation and reduced glutathione levels in brain tissues, were also estimated in this study. The binding mode of eugenol in the human myeloid differentiation factor-2 (hMD-2) was also studied. Results showed that MPTP administration in mice resulted in the development of motor dysfunction (impaired motor coordination and hypo locomotion) similar to that of PD in different behavioural studies. Pre-treatment with eugenol reversed motor dysfunction caused by MPTP administration while post-treatment with eugenol at a high dose aggravated the symptoms of akinesia associated with MPTP administration. MPTP resulted in increased lipid peroxidation while decreased reduced glutathione levels in the brains of mice. MPTP-induced increased lipid peroxidation and attenuated levels of reduced glutathione were found to be alleviated with eugenol pre-treatment while augmented with eugenol post-treatment. Eugenol showed a binding affinity of -6.897 kcal/mol against the MD2 coreceptor of toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4). Biochemical, as well as neurobehavioral studies, showed that eugenol is having a protective effect, but does not have a curative effect on PD.

Repurposing Multiple-Molecule Drugs for COVID-19-Associated Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome and Non-Viral Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome via a Systems Biology Approach and a DNN-DTI Model Based on Five Drug Design Specifications

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic is currently raging around the world at a rapid speed. Among COVID-19 patients, SARS-CoV-2-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is the main contribution to the high ratio of morbidity and mortality. However, clinical manifestations between SARS-CoV-2-associated ARDS and non-SARS-CoV-2-associated ARDS are quite common, and their therapeutic treatments are limited because the intricated pathophysiology having been not fully understood. In this study, to investigate the pathogenic mechanism of SARS-CoV-2-associated ARDS and non-SARS-CoV-2-associated ARDS, first, we constructed a candidate host-pathogen interspecies genome-wide genetic and epigenetic network (HPI-GWGEN) via database mining. With the help of host-pathogen RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) data, real HPI-GWGEN of COVID-19-associated ARDS and non-viral ARDS were obtained by system modeling, system identification, and Akaike information criterion (AIC) model order selection method to delete the false positives in candidate HPI-GWGEN. For the convenience of mitigation, the principal network projection (PNP) approach is utilized to extract core HPI-GWGEN, and then the corresponding core signaling pathways of COVID-19-associated ARDS and non-viral ARDS are annotated via their core HPI-GWGEN by KEGG pathways. In order to design multiple-molecule drugs of COVID-19-associated ARDS and non-viral ARDS, we identified essential biomarkers as drug targets of pathogenesis by comparing the core signal pathways between COVID-19-associated ARDS and non-viral ARDS. The deep neural network of the drug–target interaction (DNN-DTI) model could be trained by drug–target interaction databases in advance to predict candidate drugs for the identified biomarkers. We further narrowed down these predicted drug candidates to repurpose potential multiple-molecule drugs by the filters of drug design specifications, including regulation ability, sensitivity, excretion, toxicity, and drug-likeness. Taken together, we not only enlighten the etiologic mechanisms under COVID-19-associated ARDS and non-viral ARDS but also provide novel therapeutic options for COVID-19-associated ARDS and non-viral ARDS.

Plant Secondary Metabolites Produced in Response to Abiotic Stresses Has Potential Application in Pharmaceutical Product Development

Plant secondary metabolites (PSMs) are vital for human health and constitute the skeletal framework of many pharmaceutical drugs. Indeed, more than 25% of the existing drugs belong to PSMs. One of the continuing challenges for drug discovery and pharmaceutical industries is gaining access to natural products, including medicinal plants. This bottleneck is heightened for endangered species prohibited for large sample collection, even if they show biological hits. While cultivating the pharmaceutically interesting plant species may be a solution, it is not always possible to grow the organism outside its natural habitat. Plants affected by abiotic stress present a potential alternative source for drug discovery. In order to overcome abiotic environmental stressors, plants may mount a defense response by producing a diversity of PSMs to avoid cells and tissue damage. Plants either synthesize new chemicals or increase the concentration (in most instances) of existing chemicals, including the prominent bioactive lead compounds morphine, camptothecin, catharanthine, epicatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), quercetin, resveratrol, and kaempferol. Most PSMs produced under various abiotic stress conditions are plant defense chemicals and are functionally anti-inflammatory and antioxidative. The major PSM groups are terpenoids, followed by alkaloids and phenolic compounds. We have searched the literature on plants affected by abiotic stress (primarily studied in the simulated growth conditions) and their PSMs (including pharmacological activities) from PubMed, Scopus, MEDLINE Ovid, Google Scholar, Databases, and journal websites. We used search keywords: "stress-affected plants," "plant secondary metabolites, "abiotic stress," "climatic influence," "pharmacological activities," "bioactive compounds," "drug discovery," and "medicinal plants" and retrieved published literature between 1973 to 2021. This review provides an overview of variation in bioactive phytochemical production in plants under various abiotic stress and their potential in the biodiscovery of therapeutic drugs. We excluded studies on the effects of biotic stress on PSMs.

Therapeutic antigout and antioxidant activity of Piper betle L. in gout-induced broilers

1. The following trial investigated the antigout activity and probable mechanism of Piper betle L. herb in gout-induced broiler chickens. The antioxidant and production performance modulating activity of P. betle L. was compared against the standard antigout drug Allopurinol.2. One hundred and sixty, one-day-old female chicks were randomly divided into five treatment groups (control, gout challenged, Allopurinol, P. betle 20 g/kg and P. betle 25 g/kg of feed) with eight birds per group (four replicates) and fed over six weeks. Gout was induced using sodium bicarbonate in water (20 g/l). The clinical signs of gout and production performance were recorded and gross and histopathology was conducted on dead birds. Serum uric acid and creatinine were estimated (on d 10, 14, 17, 19, 21 and 42) and antioxidant and xanthine oxidase enzyme activities were measured from blood samples.3. Uric acid progressively reduced after treatment with P. betle 20 g/kg from d 17 (19.4 ± 0.7 mg/dl) to d 21 (9.81 ± 0.3 mg/dl) and xanthine oxidase activity was likewise suppressed (7.80 ± 0.04 U/mg protein), in a similar manner to Allopurinol (7.75 ± 0.05 U/mg protein), which authenticated the mechanism of antigout activity. Better feed conversion ratios (1.83 ± 0.001) and the restoration of the antioxidants superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione to normal levels were observed from birds fed P. betle 20 g/kg than with Allopurinol.4. The data showed that P. betle can be an effective treatment for gout in broiler chicken, as an alternative to Allopurinol.

Effect of topical application of nanoencapsulated eugenol on dental sensitivity reduction after in-office dental bleaching: a randomized, triple-blind clinical trial

PURPOSE

This randomized, split-mouth, triple-blind clinical study evaluated the effect of application of nanoencapsulated eugenol (NE) on the absolute risk and intensity of tooth sensitivity (TS) resulting from in-office bleaching.

METHODS

Fifty-six patients received a NE in one hemiarch and a placebo gel in the other hemiarch, determined by random sequence, before in-office bleaching. A visual analogue scale (VAS) (0-10) and a numeric rating scale (NRS) (0-4) were used to record TS during bleaching and 1 and 48 h after bleaching. The tooth color was performed from baseline to 2 weeks after bleaching with shade guides (ΔSGU) and a spectrophotometer (∆E_ab , ∆E_00, and WI_D ). The TS was assessed through the McNemar test (α = 0.05) and by the Wilcoxon signed-rank test (NRS) and paired t-test (VAS). The paired test-t was employed to compare the color changes (ΔSGU and ΔE_ab , ∆E_00, and WI_D ). The significance level was 5%.

RESULTS

No statistically significant difference was found in the absolute risk or intensity of TS between both groups (p > 0.05). A significant color change was observed in both groups (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Administration of the gel containing NE before the in-office dental bleaching did not reduce the TS and did not interfere in the bleaching effect.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

The use of desensitizing gel containing NE did not reduce in-office bleaching-induced tooth sensitivity.

Endodontic set sealer eluates promote cytokine production in human mononuclear and periodontal ligament cells

Endodontic freshly mixed sealers display toxic effects; however, these are significantly reduced and most become relatively inert in the set state but there is no information about the possible inflammatory reaction promoted by them. Four contemporary and different formulated endodontic set sealers (MTA Fillapex, BioRoot RCS, AH Plus, and Pulp Canal Sealer) were evaluated. Human periodontal ligament cells and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells were stimulated for 3, 6, 12 and 24 h. Interleukin-6, tumour necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-8 and interleukin-10 concentrations were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. All endodontic set sealer eluates promoted a similar production (P ˃ 0.05) of the four cytokines. However, their concentrations decreased within a short time period to nearly undetectable concentrations after 24 h, suggesting that the studied endodontic set sealers do not possess inflammatory properties which has favoured their long-term use in clinical practice.

Ethanolic Extract of Moringa oleifera Leaves Influences NF-κB Signaling Pathway to Restore Kidney Tissue from Cobalt-Mediated Oxidative Injury and Inflammation in Rats

This study aimed to describe the protective efficacy of Moringa oleifera ethanolic extract (MOEE) against the impact of cobalt chloride (CoCl₂) exposure on the rat’s kidney. Fifty male rats were assigned to five equal groups: a control group, a MOEE-administered group (400 mg/kg body weight (bw), daily via gastric tube), a CoCl₂-intoxicated group (300 mg/L, daily in drinking water), a protective group, and a therapeutic co-administered group that received MOEE prior to or following and concurrently with CoCl₂, respectively. The antioxidant status indices (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and reduced glutathione (GSH)), oxidative stress markers (hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and malondialdehyde (MDA)), and inflammatory response markers (nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), myeloperoxidase (MPO), and C-reactive protein (CRP)) were evaluated. The expression profiles of pro-inflammatory cytokines (nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) and interleukin-6 (IL-6)) were also measured by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The results showed that CoCl₂ exposure was associated with significant elevations of oxidative stress and inflammatory indices with reductions in the endogenous tissue antioxidants’ concentrations. Moreover, CoCl₂ enhanced the activity of the NF-κB inflammatory-signaling pathway that plays a role in the associated inflammation of the kidney. MOEE ameliorated CoCl₂-induced renal oxidative damage and inflammatory injury with the suppression of the mRNA expression pattern of pro-inflammatory cytokine-encoding genes. MOEE is more effective when it is administered with CoCl₂ exposure as a prophylactic regimen. In conclusion, MOEE administration exhibited protective effects in counteracting CoCl₂-induced renal injury in rats.

Novel Clove Essential Oil Nanoemulgel Tailored by Taguchi's Model and Scaffold-Based Nanofibers: Phytopharmaceuticals with Promising Potential as Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibitors in External Inflammation

PURPOSE

Clove essential oil is a phytochemical possessing a vast array of biological activities. Nevertheless, fabricating nano topical delivery systems targeted to augment the anti-inflammatory activity of the oil has not been investigated so far. Accordingly, in this study, controlled release nanoparticulate systems, namely nanoemulgel and nanofibers (NFs), of the oil were developed to achieve such goal.

METHODS

The nanoemulsion was incorporated in the hydrogel matrix of mixed biopolymers - chitosan, guar gum and gum acacia - to formulate nanoemulsion-based nanoemulgel. Taguchi's model was adopted to evaluate the effect of independently controlled parameters, namely, the concentration of chitosan (X1), guar gum (X2), and gum acacia (X3) on different dependently measured parameters. Additionally, the nanoemulsion-based NFs were prepared by the electrospinning technique using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymer. Extensive in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo evaluations of the aforementioned formulae were conducted.

RESULTS

Both Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) established the complete dispersion of the nanoemulsion in the polymeric matrices of the prepared nanoemulgel and NFs. The ex vivo skin permeation data of clove essential oil from the prepared formulations showed that NFs can sustain its penetration through the skin comparably with nanoemulgel. Topical treatment with NFs (once application) and nanoemulgel (twice application) evoked a marvelous in vivo anti-inflammatory activity against croton oil-induced mouse skin inflammation model when compared with pure clove essential oil along with relatively higher efficacy of medicated NFs than that of medicated nanoemulgel. Such prominent anti-inflammatory activity was affirmed by histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations.

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that nanoemulsion-based nanoemulgel and nanoemulsion-based NFs could be introduced to the phytomedicine field as promising topical delivery systems for effective treatment of inflammatory diseases instead of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that possess adverse effects.

Antioxidant activity of eugenol in Piper betel leaf extract

Background:

Extracts of Piper betel are used for the treatment of various ailments since ages due to its essential properties like antioxidant, anticancer, anti-allergic etc. In the present study antioxidant activity for Piper betel leaf extract and Eugenol was assessed. Eugenol was taken as marker compound.

Methods:

Nitric oxide, Hydroxyl radical and Reducing power assay methods were carried out for assessment of antioxidant activity of Piper betel.

Results:

The antioxidant activity for Nitric oxide, Hydroxyl radical and Reducing power assay at 1000 to 62.5μg/ml was performed. The antioxidant activity of Piper betel leaf extract exhibited the IC50 value for Nitric oxide and Hydroxyl radical >1000 whereas Eugenol exhibited the IC50 value 114.34± 0.46 and 306.44 ± 5.28 respectively, for reducing power assay (RPA) Piper betel leaf extract and Eugenol revealed the RPA value ranging from 0.44-0.08 and 0.53-0.12.

Conclusion:

The benefits of Piper betel have been mentioned in our ancient texts. Keeping in view the emergence of various diseases and the benefits of Piper betei, there is need that every effort should be made to revive this treasure of nature into our daily supplement.

Eugenol ameliorates insulin resistance, oxidative stress and inflammation in high fat-diet/streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat

BACKGROUND

Eugenol, a phenolic compound present in many plant essential oils, demonstrated anti-diabetic activity but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. The aim of the present study was to examine the anti-diabetic, anti-oxidative and the anti-inflammatory effect of eugenol in high-fat-diet (HFD) and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. Additionally, the effect of eugenol on the insulin sensitivity and on skeletal muscle protein contents of glucose transporter-4 (GLUT4) and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) was investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HFD/STZ-induced diabetic rats were treated orally with eugenol (10 mg/kg) for 45 days. After the end of the experiment, blood and skeletal muscle samples were collected. Metformin was used as positive control.

RESULTS

The anti-diabetic effects of eugenol were demonstrated by the significant reduction in the levels of serum glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol, Low-density lipoprotein, malondialdehyde and interleukin-6 in the treated group compared to the diabetic group. Additionally, eugenol treatment significantly restored the decreased serum levels of insulin and glutathione when compared to that of the diabetic control rats. The homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was significantly lower in rats treated with eugenol than in the diabetic rats. The skeletal muscle protein contents of GLUT4 and AMPK were higher in the eugenol treated group than in the diabetic control group.

CONCLUSION

Eugenol possesses potent anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effect in HFD/STZ-induced diabetic rats. Moreover, eugenol facilitates insulin sensitivity and stimulate skeletal muscle glucose uptake via activation of the GLUT4-AMPK signaling pathway. Eugenol could represent a promising therapeutic agent to prevent type 2 diabetes.

In-vivo assessment of the osteo-protective effects of eugenol in alveolar bone tissues

Estrogen deficiency following menopausal provokes alveolar bone loss, remodeling and inflammation. Eugenol is a phenolic compound with wide dental applications and anti-inflammatory properties. In the present study, the potential protective role of eugenol against alveolar bone deformities was investigated in an ovariectomized (OVX) rodent model. Two doses of eugenol (2.5 and 5 mg/kg/d) were administered to OVX animals for 12 weeks. In Serum, markers of bone metabolism and pro-inflammatory cytokines were estimated using ELISA. Alveolar bone morphometry was analyzed using high-resolution micro-computed tomography (CT). Bone histological analysis (H&E stain) was also performed. Alveolar bone expression of osteoclastogenesis modulating factors, such as osteoprotegerin (OPG), receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-b ligand (RANKL) and inflammatory mediators, were measured using immunohistochemistry. Eugenol failed to correct elevated body weights and uterine atrophy in OVX rats. The significant elevation of bone metabolic markers and inflammatory cytokines in OVX animals were markedly improved by eugenol treatment, particularly the higher dose. Eugenol treatment considerably attenuated morphometric trabecular alterations of the alveolar bone and improved alveolar resorption and gingival infiltration. Alveolar bone of OVX animals showed augmented expression of RANKL, OPG and inflammatory cytokines, which were corrected by eugenol treatment. Alveolar bone loss and remodeling associated with estrogen insufficiency was ameliorated by eugenol owing to its anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting an extra dental impact for eugenol.

The Role of Eugenol in the Prevention of Acute Pancreatitis-Induced Acute Kidney Injury: Experimental Study

Aim. Acute pancreatitis is an inflammatory intra-abdominal disease, which takes a severe form in 15–20% of patients and can result in high mortality especially when complicated by acute renal failure. The aim of this study is to assess the possible reduction in the extent of acute kidney injury after administration of eugenol in an experimental model of acute pancreatitis. Materials and Methods. 106 male Wistar rats weighing 220–350 g were divided into 3 groups: (1) Sham, with sham surgery; (2) Control, with induction of acute pancreatitis, through ligation of the biliopancreatic duct; and (3) Eugenol, with induction of acute pancreatitis and eugenol administration at a dose of 15 mg/kg. Serum urea and creatinine, histopathological changes, TNF-α, IL-6, and MPO activity in the kidneys were evaluated at predetermined time intervals. Results. The group that was administered eugenol showed milder histopathological changes than the Control group, TNF-α activity was milder in the Eugenol group, and there was no difference in activity for MPO and IL-6. Serum urea and creatinine levels were lower in the Eugenol group than in the Control group. Conclusions. Eugenol administration was protective for the kidneys in an experimental model of acute pancreatitis in rats.

Citral and eugenol modulate DNA damage and pro-inflammatory mediator genes in murine peritoneal macrophages

Citral and eugenol have been broadly studied because of their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiparasitic potentials. In this study, the effects of citral (25, 50 and 100 µg/mL) and eugenol (0.31, 0.62, 1.24 and 2.48 µg/mL) on the expression (RT-PCR) of the pro-inflammatory mediator genes NF-κB1, COX-2 and TNF-α were evaluated in mouse peritoneal macrophages with or without activation by a bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Additionally, the genotoxic potentials of two compounds and their capacities to modulate the DNA damage induced by doxorubicin (DXR) were investigated using the comet assay. The data revealed that neither citral nor eugenol changed COX-2, NF-κB1 or TNF-α expression in resting macrophages. However, in LPS-activated cells, citral induced the hypoexpression of COX-2 (100 µg/mL) and TNF-α (50 and 100 µg/mL). Hypoexpression of TNF-α was also detected after cellular exposure to eugenol at the highest concentration (2.48 µg/mL). Both compounds exhibited genotoxic potential (citral at 50 and 100 µg/mL and eugenol at all concentrations) but also showed chemopreventive effects, in various treatment protocols. Both citral and eugenol might modulate inflammatory processes and DXR-induced DNA damage, but the use of these compounds must be viewed with caution because they are also able to induce primary DNA lesions.

Chrysanthemum boreale flower floral water inhibits platelet-derived growth factor-stimulated migration and proliferation in vascular smooth muscle cells

CONTEXT

Chrysanthemum boreale Makino (Compositae) (CBM) is a traditional medicine that has been used for the prevention or treatment of various disorders; it has various properties including antioxidation, anti-inflammation, and antitumor.

OBJECTIVE

The present study was designed to explore the in vitro effect of CBM flower floral water (CBMFF) on atherosclerosis-related responses in rat aortic smooth muscle cells (RASMCs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CBMFF was extracted from CBM flower by steam distillation and analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The anti-atherosclerosis activity of CBMFF was tested by estimating platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB (10 ng/mL)-induced proliferation and migration levels and intracellular kinase pathways in RASMCs at CBMFF concentrations of 0.01-100 μM and analyzing ex vivo aortic ring assay.

RESULTS

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry showed that the CBMFF contained a total of seven components. The CBMFF inhibits PDGF-BB-stimulated RASMC migration and proliferation (IC50: 0.010 μg/mL). Treatment of RASMCs with PDGF-BB induced PDGFR-β phosphorylation and increased the phosphorylations of MAPK p38 and ERK1/2. CBMFF addition prevented PDGF-BB-induced phosphorylation of these kinases (IC50: 008 and 0.018 μg/mL, for p38 MAPK and ERK1/2, respectively), as well as PDGFR-β (IC50: 0.046 μg/mL). Treatment with inhibitors of PDGFR, P38 MAPK, and ERK1/2 decreased PDGF-BB-increased migration and proliferation in RASMCs. Moreover, the CBMFF suppressed PDGF-BB-increased sprout outgrowth of aortic rings (IC50: 0.047 μg/mL).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate that CBMFF may inhibit PDGF-BB-induced vascular migration and proliferation, most likely through inhibition of the PDGFR-β-mediated MAPK pathway; therefore, the CBMFF may be promising candidate for the development of herbal remedies for vascular disorders.

Antiinflammatory effects of essential oil from the leaves of Cinnamomum cassia and cinnamaldehyde on lipopolysaccharide-stimulated J774A.1 cells

Cassia oil (CO) from different parts of Cinnamomum cassia have different active components. Very few pharmacological properties of cassia leaf oil have been reported. This study investigated and compared effects of cassia leaf oil and cinnamaldehyde on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated J774A.1 cells. Volatile compositions in cassia leaf oil were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (MS)/MS. Effects of CO and cinnamaldehyde on LPS-activated J774A.1 cells were investigated by determining nitric oxide (NO) production using Griess reaction assay; expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, enzymes involve in inflammatory mediators; antiinflammatory cytokines, and iron exporter ferroportin1 (Fpn1) using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction; and production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and interleukin (IL)-10 using ELISA. The main component of CO was cinnamaldehyde. Both oils at 1-20 μg/ml markedly inhibited NO production in LPS-activated J774A.1 cells with IC50 value of 6.1 ± 0.25 and 9.97 ± 0.35 μg/ml, respectively. They similarly inhibited mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. These mediators included TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and macrophage inflammatory protein-1α in LPS-activated cells. They also significantly decreased expression of inducible enzymes inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, microsomal prostaglandin-E synthase-1. In the opposite way, they increased mRNA expression and the production of antiinflammatory cytokines IL-10 and transforming growth factor-β. In addition, they promoted the expression of Fpn1. These results demonstrated that inhibitory effects of cassia leaf oil from C. cassia mainly came from cinnamaldehyde. This compound not only inhibited inflammatory mediators but also activated antiinflammatory mediators in LPS-activated J774A.1 cells. It may also have an effect on iron regulatory proteins in activated macrophages.

The phytochemistry, traditional uses and pharmacology of Piper Betel. linn (Betel Leaf): A pan-asiatic medicinal plant

Since antiquity, Piper betel. Linn, commonly known as betel vine, has been used as a religious, recreational and medicinal plant in Southeast Asia. The leaves, which are the most commonly used plant part, are pungent with aromatic flavor and are widely consumed as a mouth freshener. It is carminative, stimulant, astringent and is effective against parasitic worms. Experimental studies have shown that it possess diverse biological and pharmacological effects, which includes antibacterial, antifungal, larvicidal, antiprotozal, anticaries, gastroprotective effects, free radical scavenging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, antiulcer and chemopreventive activities. The active principles hydroxychavicol, allylpyrocatechol and eugenol with their plethora of pharmacological properties may also have the potential to develop as bioactive lead molecule. In this review, an attempt is made to summarize the religious, traditional uses, phytochemical composition and experimentally validated pharmacological properties of Piper betel. Emphasis is also placed on aspects warranting detail studies for it to be of pharmaceutical/clinical use to humans.

Immunomodulatory effects of clove (Syzygium aromaticum) constituents on macrophages: in vitro evaluations of aqueous and ethanolic components

The present work sought to investigate potential suppressive effects on mouse macrophages by in vitro treatment with clove (Syzygium aromaticum) ethanolic extracted essential oil (containing eugenol) or its water-soluble extract. Using doses (ranging from 0.001-1000 µg/ml) of each material freshly prepared in the laboratory, cell survival and production of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-12 by the treated cells (that in all cases also had received LPS stimulation) were measured. Results indicated that, except at doses ≥100 µg/ml, viability was unaffected in all groups. NO release by LPS-stimulated macrophages was generally significantly suppressed by either material; in contrast, low (i.e. 0.001-1 µg/ml) doses of either extract class appeared to enhance NO release by non-LPS (unstimulated)-treated macrophages. Among LPS-stimulated cells, TNFα release was also significantly affected by each extract; the ethanolic extract was suppressive at all doses tested, while the aqueous material was so up to 1 µg/ml and then became stimulatory. In contrast, nearly every dose of either extract appeared to stimulate IL-6 release from the LPS-treated cells. Effects on IL-12 production were overall inconsistent; in general, the ethanolic extract tended to be stimulatory of production by the LPS-treated cells. The data for the aqueous material showed no discernable pattern of effect. The results suggest that clove extracts do not have a distinct cytotoxic activity, but do impart potential anti- and pro-oxidant effects in cells, depending on their concentrations and on the activation state of the macrophages themselves at the time of exposure to the extracts. The impact of the extracts on macrophage cytokine release also displays a pattern of dose-relatedness.

Anethole and eugenol reduce in vitro and in vivo leukocyte migration induced by fMLP, LTB4, and carrageenan

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of anethole (AN) and eugenol (EUG) on leukocyte migration using in vitro chemotaxis and in situ microcirculation assays. BALB/c mice were used for the in vitro chemotaxis assay, and Wistar rats for the in situ microcirculation assay. We evaluated (a) the in vitro leukocyte migration in response to chemotactic factors (formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine [fMLP] and leukotriene B4 [LTB4]) and (b) the rolling, adhesion, and migration of leukocytes induced by an injection of carrageenan (100 µg/cavity) into the scrotum of the animal. In the in vitro chemotaxis assay, AN and EUG at doses of 1, 3, 9, and 27 µg/ml significantly inhibited leukocyte migration when stimulated by the chemotactic agents fMLP and LTB4. In the in situ microcirculation assay, AN at doses of 125 and 250 mg/kg and EUG at a dose of 250 mg/kg significantly decreased the number of leukocytes that rolled, adhered, and migrated to perivascular tissue. The results indicate that AN and EUG exert inhibitory effects on leukocyte migration, highlighting their possible use to diminish excessive leukocyte migration in the inflammatory process.

Floridoside suppresses pro-inflammatory responses by blocking MAPK signaling in activated microglia

Inflammatory conditions mediated by activated microglia lead to chronic neuro-degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases. This study was conducted to determine the effect of floridoside isolated from marine red algae Laurencia undulata on LPS (100 ng/ml) activated inflammatory responses in BV-2 microglia cells. The results show that floridoside has the ability to suppress pro-inflammatory responses in microglia by markedly inhibiting the production of nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Moreover, floridoside down-regulated the protein and gene expression levels of iNOS and COX-2 by significantly blocking the phosphorylation of p38 and ERK in BV-2 cells. Collectively, these results indicate that floridoside has the potential to be developed as an active agent for the treatment of neuro-inflammation. [BMB Reports 2013; 46(8): 398-403]

Dietary plant extracts alleviate diarrhea and alter immune responses of weaned pigs experimentally infected with a pathogenic Escherichia coli

A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of 3 different plant extracts on diarrhea, immune response, intestinal morphology, and growth performance of weaned pigs experimentally infected with a pathogenic F-18 Escherichia coli (E. coli). Sixty-four weaned pigs (6.3±0.2 kg BW, and 21 d old) were housed in individual pens in disease containment chambers for 15 d: 4 d before and 11 d after the first inoculation (d 0). Treatments were in a 2×4 factorial arrangement: with or without an F-18 E. coli challenge (toxins: heat-labile toxin, heat-stable toxin b, and Shiga-like toxin 2; 10(10) cfu/3 mL oral dose; daily for 3 d from d 0) and 4 diets [a nursery basal diet (CON) or 10 ppm of capsicum oleoresin, garlic botanical, or turmeric oleoresin]. The growth performance was measured on d 0 to 5, 5 to 11, and 0 to 11. Diarrhea score (1, normal, to 5, watery diarrhea) was recorded for each pig daily. Frequency of diarrhea was the percentage of pig days with a diarrhea score of 3 or greater. Blood was collected on d 0, 5, and 11 to measure total and differential white blood cell counts and serum tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-10, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, C-reactive protein, and haptoglobin. On d 5 and 11, half of the pigs were euthanized to measure villi height and crypt depth of the small intestine and macrophage and neutrophil number in the ileum. The E. coli infection increased (P<0.05) diarrhea score, frequency of diarrhea, white blood cell counts, serum TNF-α and haptoglobin, and ileal macrophages and neutrophils but reduced (P<0.05) villi height and the ratio of villi height to crypt depth of the small intestine on d 5. In the challenged group, feeding plant extracts reduced (P<0.05) average diarrhea score from d 0 to 2 and d 6 to 11 and frequency of diarrhea and decreased (P<0.05) TNF-α and haptoglobin on d 5, white blood cell counts and neutrophils on d 11, and ileal macrophages and neutrophils on d 5. Feeding plant extracts increased (P<0.05) ileal villi height on d 5 but did not affect growth performance compared with the CON. In the sham group, feeding plant extract also reduced (P<0.05) diarrhea score, frequency of diarrhea, and ileal macrophages compared with the CON. In conclusion, the 3 plant extracts tested reduced diarrhea and inflammation caused by E. coli infection, which may be beneficial to pig health.

Anti-inflammatory effects of several plant extracts on porcine alveolar macrophages in vitro

Certain plant extracts are bioactive substances of some foods or traditional herbs, known to possess antioxidant, antibacterial, and perhaps immunoregulatory effects. This study investigated the in vitro anti-inflammatory effects of 7 plant extracts (anethol, capsicum oleoresin, carvacrol, cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, garlicon, and turmeric oleoresin) on porcine alveolar macrophages collected from weaned pigs (n = 6 donor pigs) by bronchoalveolar lavage. The experimental design for this assay was a 2 [with or without 1 μg lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/mL] × 5 (5 different amounts of each plant extract) factorial arrangements in a randomized complete block design. The application of plant extracts were 0, 25, 50, 100, and 200 μg/mL, except for cinnamaldehyde and turmeric oleoresin, which were 0, 2.5, 5, 10, and 20 μg/mL. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to determine the number of live cells, Griess assay was applied to detect nitric oxide (NO) production, and ELISA was used to measure tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-1β, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and IL-10 in the cell culture supernatants of macrophages. The LPS increased (P < 0.001) the secretion of TNF-α, IL-1β, and TGF-β. Without LPS, anethol and capsicum oleoresin increased (linear, P < 0.001) cell viability of macrophages, whereas other plant extracts reduced (linear, P < 0.001) it. Anethol, capsicum oleoresin, and carvacrol enhanced (linear, P < 0.001) the cell proliferation of LPS-treated macrophages. Without LPS, anethol, capsicum oleoresin, cinnamaldehyde, or turmeric oleoresin stimulated TNF-α secretion, whereas all plant extracts except eugenol enhanced IL-1β concentration in the supernatants of macrophages. However, all plant extracts suppressed (linear, P < 0.001) TNF-α, and all plant extracts except turmeric oleoresin decreased (linear, P < 0.05) IL-1β secretion from LPS-treated macrophages. Anethol and capsicum oleoresin decreased (linear, P < 0.001) TGF-β from macrophages in the absence of LPS, but the other plant extracts increased it. Anethol, capsicum oleoresin, and carvacrol also suppressed (linear, P < 0.001) TGF-β from macrophages with LPS stimulation; the other plant extracts enhanced or did not affect it. The anti-inflammatory cytokine, IL-10, was not detected in any supernatants. Only very low amounts of NO were detected in the supernatants of macrophages. In conclusion, the TNF-α results indicate all plant extracts tested here may have anti-inflammatory effects to varying degrees.

Clove and eugenol in noncytotoxic concentrations exert immunomodulatory/anti-inflammatory action on cytokine production by murine macrophages

OBJECTIVES

The extract and essential oil of clove (Syzygium aromaticum) are widely used because of their medicinal properties. Eugenol is the most important component of clove, showing several biological properties. Herein we have analysed the immunomodulatory/anti-inflammatory effect of clove and eugenol on cytokine production (interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and IL-10) in vitro.

METHODS

Macrophages were incubated with clove or eugenol (5, 10, 25, 50 or 100µg/well) for 24h. Concentrations that inhibited the production of cytokines were used before or after incubation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), to verify a preventive or therapeutic effect. Culture supernatants were harvested for measurement of cytokines by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

KEY FINDINGS

Clove (100µg/well) inhibited IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-10 production and exerted an efficient action either before or after LPS challenge for all cytokines. Eugenol did not affect IL-1β production but inhibited IL-6 and IL-10 production. The action of eugenol (50 or 100µg/well) on IL-6 production prevented efficiently effects of LPS either before or after its addition, whereas on IL-10 production it counteracted significantly LPS action when added after LPS incubation.

CONCLUSIONS

Clove exerted immunomodulatory/anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting LPS action. A possible mechanism of action probably involved the suppression of the nuclear factor-κB pathway by eugenol, since it was the major compound found in clove extract.

Antinociceptive effects of eugenol evaluated in a monoiodoacetate-induced osteoarthritis rat model

The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether eugenol, the main constituent of clove oil, has the capacity to provide analgesia in the monoiodoacetate-induced rat model of osteoarthritis. Animals (n = 6/group) received either eugenol (20 or 40 mg/kg) or a vehicle by gavage. Daily administrations were initiated 2 days post osteoarthritis induction and continued for the duration of the study (4 weeks). Gait analysis was performed using the CatWalk method and secondary mechanical allodynia was assessed with von Frey filaments. Selected spinal cord peptides (substance P, calcitonin gene-related peptide and dynorphin) were quantified by mass spectrometry. Significant changes were identified in dynamic gait parameters (swing speed, swing phase duration and duty cycle) of the affected limb following 40 mg/kg eugenol treatment compared with the vehicle (p < 0.05). Von Frey results revealed significant differences between the 40 mg/kg treatment and the vehicle group during the first and the third week of the study (p < 0.02). Spinal pain-related peptide analysis revealed a decreased content of substance P and CGRP accompanied by an increase of dynorphin in animals treated with 40 mg/kg eugenol. These results suggest a therapeutic potential of eugenol to alleviate osteoarthritis-related pain.

Cancer cell signaling pathways targeted by spice-derived nutraceuticals

Extensive research within the last half a century has revealed that cancer is caused by dysregulation of as many as 500 different gene products. Most natural products target multiple gene products and thus are ideally suited for prevention and treatment of various chronic diseases, including cancer. Dietary agents such as spices have been used extensively in the Eastern world for a variety of ailments for millennia, and five centuries ago they took a golden journey to the Western world. Various spice-derived nutraceuticals, including 1'-acetoxychavicol acetate, anethole, capsaicin, cardamonin, curcumin, dibenzoylmethane, diosgenin, eugenol, gambogic acid, gingerol, thymoquinone, ursolic acid, xanthohumol, and zerumbone derived from galangal, anise, red chili, black cardamom, turmeric, licorice, fenugreek, clove, kokum, ginger, black cumin, rosemary, hop, and pinecone ginger, respectively, are the focus of this review. The modulation of various transcription factors, growth factors, protein kinases, and inflammatory mediators by these spice-derived nutraceuticals are described. The anticancer potential through the modulation of various targets is also the subject of this review. Although they have always been used to improve taste and color and as a preservative, they are now also used for prevention and treatment of a wide variety of chronic inflammatory diseases, including cancer.

Clove (Syzygium aromaticum Linn) extract rich in eugenol and eugenol derivatives shows bone-preserving efficacy

This study examined the efficacy of hydroalcoholic extract of dried clove buds, which is rich in phenolic compounds namely eugenol and eugenol derivatives (precursors of flavones, isoflavones and flavonoids), on different primary and secondary osteoporotic marker changes in an ovariectomised (OVX) rat model of osteoporosis. Female Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups: sham-operated control (A), OVX (B) and OVX plus 50% hydroalcoholic extract of dried clove buds for 4 weeks (C). Results indicated that, compared to control, serum alkaline phosphatase (AP; 48.25%, p < 0.01), serum tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP; 63.48%, p < 0.01), urinary calcium (14.70%, p < 0.01), urinary phosphate (50.30%, p < 0.01) and urinary creatinine (122.44%, p < 0.01) were significantly altered in OVX rats. All these altered responses were significantly restored (AP: 27.53%, p < 0.01; TRAP: 33.51%, p < 0.01; calcium: 53.15%, p < 0.01; phosphate: 27.49%, p < 0.01; creatinine: 46.40%, p < 0.01) by supplementation with hydroalcoholic extract of dried clove buds. Results of bone density, bone mineral content, bone tensile strength and histological analysis also showed similar trend of results, which supported initial observations of this study. It is proposed that hydroalcoholic extract of dried clove buds has bone-preserving efficacy against hypogonadal osteoporosis.

Enhancement in antifungal activity of eugenol in immunosuppressed rats through lipid nanocarriers

In the present study eugenol loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) was prepared and characterized for particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency, in vitro release and in vivo antifungal activity. Effect of addition of liquid lipid (caprylic triglyceride) to solid lipid (stearic acid) on crystallinity of lipid matrix of SLN was determined by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was carried out to determine the morphology of SLN. In vivo antifungal activity of eugenol loaded lipid nanoparticles was evaluated by using a model of oral candidiasis in immunosuppressed rats. Particle size results showed that d(90) of SLN(1) (single lipid matrix) and SLN(2) (binary lipid matrix) was 332±14.2 nm and 87.8±3.8 nm, respectively. Polydispersity index was found to be in the range of 0.27-0.4 which indicate moderate size distribution. Encapsulation efficiency of SLN(2) (98.52%) was found to be more than that of SLN(1) (91.80%) at same lipid concentration (2%, w/v). Increasing of the solid lipid concentration from 2% (w/v) to 4% (w/v) resulted in increase in encapsulation efficiency and the particle size. SLN(2) shows faster release of eugenol than that of SLN(1) due to smaller size and presence of liquid lipid which provide less barriers to the diffusion of drug from matrix. TEM study reveals the spherical shape of SLN. FT-IR, DSC and XRD results indicate less crystallinity of SLN(2) than that of SLN(1). In vivo studies show no significant difference in log cfu value of all the groups at 0 day. At 8th day, log cfu value of group treated with saline (control), standard antifungal agent, eugenol solution, SLN(1) and SLN(2) was found to be 3.89±.032, 2.69, 3.39±.088, 3.19±.028 and 3.08±0.124, respectively. The in vivo study results indicate improvement in the antifungal activity of eugenol when administrated in the form of SLN.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of essential oils: a short review

Essential oils are complex mixtures isolated from aromatic plants which may possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of interest in thye food and cosmetic industries as well as in the human health field. In this work, a review was done on the most recent publications concerning their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. At the same time a survey of the methods generally used for the evaluation of antioxidant activity and some of the mechanisms involved in the anti-inflammatory activities of essential oils are also reported.

Eugenol: A Natural Compound with Versatile Pharmacological Actions

Eugenol, the major constituent of clove oil, has been widely used for its anesthetic and analgesic action in dentistry. Eugenol exhibits pharmacological effects on almost all systems and our aim is to review the research work that has identified these pharmacological actions. Eugenol possesses significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular properties, in addition to analgesic and local anesthetic activity. The metabolism and pharmacokinetics of the compound in humans have been studied. Eugenol has also been used as a penetration enhancer. The compound is a very promising candidate for versatile applications, and the design of new drugs based on the pharmacological effects of eugenol could be beneficial.

Cytotoxicity evaluation of two root canal sealers and a commercial calcium hydroxide paste on THP1 cell line by Trypan Blue assay

Objective:

The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the cytotoxicity of two brands of root canal sealers, epoxy-resin based and zinc oxide-eugenol based, and one commercial calcium hydroxide paste on a monocyte cell line THP-1.

Material and methods:

Undiluted (crude extract) and diluted extracts to 10%, 1%, 0.1%, 0.01%, 0.001% and 0.0001% of the sealers were tested for cytotoxicity to THP-1 cells using the trypan blue assay. Extracts were obtained according to ISO standard. Data were analyzed statistically by the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests at 5% significance level.

Results:

Crude extract of AH Plus and Fill Canal killed approximately 90% of THP-1 cells versus 36% of THP-1 cells killed by L&C crude extract (p<0.05). Ten-fold dilutions of L&C, Fill Canal and AH Plus killed 24, 35 and 61% of THP-1 cells (p<0.05), respectively. Dilutions lesser than 1% caused minimal cell death as compared to the control groups (p>0.05), except for L&C 1% extract.

Conclusions:

The results revealed that the L&C paste crude extract was less cytotoxic to THP-1 cells than AH Plus or Fill Canal crude extracts.

In vivo anti-inflammatory action of eugenol on lipopolysaccharide-induced lung injury

Eugenol, a methoxyphenol component of clove oil, suppresses cyclooxygenase-2 expression, while eugenol dimers prevent nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) activation and inflammatory cytokine expression in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages. Our aim was to examine the in vivo anti-inflammatory effects of eugenol. BALB/c mice were divided into four groups. Mice received saline [0.05 ml intratracheally (it), control (Ctrl) and eugenol (Eug) groups] or Escherichia coli LPS (10 microg it, LPS and LPSEug groups). After 6 h, mice received saline (0.2 ml ip, Ctrl and LPS groups) or eugenol (160 mg/kg ip, Eug and LPSEug groups). Twenty-four hours after LPS injection, pulmonary resistive (DeltaP1) and viscoelastic (DeltaP2) pressures, static elastance (E(st)), and viscoelastic component of elastance (DeltaE) were measured. Lungs were prepared for histology. In parallel mice, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was collected 24 h after LPS injection. TNF-alpha was determined by ELISA. Lung tissue expression of NF-kappaB was determined by EMSA. DeltaP1, DeltaP2, E(st), and DeltaE were significantly higher in the LPS group than in the other groups. LPS mice also showed significantly more alveolar collapse, collagen fibers, and neutrophil influx and higher TNF-alpha levels and NF-kappaB expression than the other groups. Eugenol treatment reduced LPS-induced lung inflammation, improving lung function. Our results suggest that eugenol exhibits in vivo anti-inflammatory action in LPS-induced lung injury.

Th1/Th2 cytokine production by clove-treated mice

Although clove possesses several biological and therapeutic properties, its immunomodulatory action has not been fully investigated. The goal of this work was to investigate the effect of administration of the water extract of clove over a short-term to BALB/c mice on Th1 (IFN-gamma and IL-2) and Th2 (IL-4 and IL-10) cytokine production. After treatment, spleen cells were aseptically removed and cells were stimulated with concanavalin A. Supernatants of cell cultures were used for cytokine determination by ELISA. The chemical composition of the extract was also carried out, revealing that eugenol(4-allyl-2-methoxyphenol) was the major component in our sample. Although the anti-inflammatory action of clove has been mentioned, our data showed that clove administration to mice did not influence the Th1/Th2 cytokine balance. Further studies dealing with cytokine expression and production will provide a better understanding of clove's immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory actions, using different extract concentrations and different intake periods.