Involvement of 5-HT1A and GABAA receptors in the anxiolytic-like effects of Cinnamomum cassia in mice

Cinnamic acid promotes elongation of hair peg-like sprouting in hair follicle organoids via oxytocin receptor activation

Considerable global demand exists for the development of novel drugs for the treatment of alopecia. A recent report demonstrated that oxytocin promotes hair growth activity in human dermal papilla (DP) cells; however, its application in drugs or cosmetic products is challenging because rapid degradation and relatively large molecular weight prevent long-term topical administration on the scalp. Here, we examined cinnamic acid, a small molecule activator for oxytocin receptor (OXTR) expression. Treatment with cinnamic acid led to upregulation of OXTR and trichogenic gene expression in human DP cells. Furthermore, inhibition of OXTR with an antagonist, L-371,257, suppressed hair growth-related gene expression in DP cells. These findings suggest that cinnamic acid enhances the hair growth ability of DP cells via oxytocin signaling. Additionally, we tested the hair growth-promoting effects of cinnamic acid using hair follicle organoids in vitro and observed that cinnamic acid significantly promoted the growth of hair peg-like sprouting. These promising results may be useful for developing hair growth-promoting products targeting oxytocin.

Biobased polymer resources and essential oils: a green combination for antibacterial applications

To fight nosocomial infections, the excessive use of antibiotics has led to the emergence of multidrug-resistant microorganisms, which are now considered a relevant public health threat by the World Health Organization. To date, most antibacterial systems are based on the use of petro-sourced polymers, but the global supplies of these resources are depleting. Besides, silver NPs are widely accepted as the most active biocide against a wide range of bacterial strains but their toxicity is an issue. The growing interest in natural products has gained increasing interest in the last decade. Therefore, the design of functional antibacterial materials derived from biomass remains a significant challenge for the scientific community. Consequently, attention has shifted to naturally occurring substances such as essential oils (EOs), which are classified as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS). EOs can offer an alternative to the common antimicrobial agents as an inner solution or biocide agent to inhibit the resistance mechanism. Herein, this review not only aims at providing developments in the antibacterial modes of action of EOs against various bacterial strains and the recent advances in genomic and proteomic techniques for the elucidation of these mechanisms but also presents examples of biobased polymer resource-based EO materials and their antibacterial activities. Especially, we describe the antibacterial properties of biobased polymers, e.g. cellulose, starch, chitosan, PLA PHAs and proteins, associated with EOs (cinnamon (CEO), clove (CLEO), bergamot (BEO), ginger (GEO), lemongrass (LEO), caraway (CAEO), rosemary (REO), Eucalyptus globulus (EGEO), tea tree (TTEO), orange peel (OPEO) and apricot (Prunus armeniaca) kernel (AKEO) essential oils). Finally, we discuss the influence of EOs on the mechanical strength of bio-based materials.

Optimization of Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume) Essential Oil Extraction: Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antiproliferative Effects

Having high cytotoxicity cell line effect, Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume essential oil offers a novel approach to the chemotherapy treatment. In order to enhance its quantity/purity, the experimental conditions to produce essential oil should be more exploited. Steam distillation was used to isolate essential oil, and its conditions' optimization was carried out with the surface-response methodology. The maximum amount (2.6 g/100 g d.b.) was obtained under minimum condensation water flow (0.8 mL/min), a sample size of 6.5 cm, a saline solution concentration of 262.5 g/L, and five washings. The produced essential oil contains >77% of polyphenols. In vitro cytotoxicity was examined using an MTT assay against HeLa and Raji cell lines. The essential oil's capability to inhibit the proliferation of HeLa and Raji cell lines was studied under some conditions presenting IC₅₀ values of 0.13 and 0.57 μg/mL, respectively. The essential oil was evaluated for its potential as an antioxidant by using in vitro models, such as phosphomolybdenum, DPPH, and H₂O₂ methods, in comparison with the synthetic antioxidant BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) and ascorbic acid (vitamin C) as positive controls. The ammonium phosphomolybdate potency in the present study is of the order of 108.75 ± 32.63 mg of essential oil/equivalent to 1 mg of vitamin C in terms of antioxidant power, and the antioxidant activity of DPPH-H₂O₂ was 21.3% and 55.2%, respectively. The Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume essential oil (CEO) covers important antioxidant and antiproliferative effects. This can be attributed to the presence of few minor and major phenolic compounds.

Cinnamomum cassia Presl: A Review of Its Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Toxicology

Cinnamomum cassia Presl is a tropical aromatic evergreen tree of the Lauraceae family, commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is also a traditional spice, widely used around the world. This paper summarizes the achievements of modern research on C. cassia, including the traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology. In addition, this review also discusses some significant issues and the potential direction of future C. cassia research. More than 160 chemicals have been separated and identified from C. cassia. The main constituents of C. cassia are terpenoids, phenylpropanoids, glycosides, etc. Modern studies have confirmed that C. cassia has a wide range of pharmacological effects, including antitumour, anti-inflammatory and analgesic, anti-diabetic and anti-obesity, antibacterial and antiviral, cardiovascular protective, cytoprotective, neuroprotective, immunoregulatory effects, anti-tyrosinase activity and other effects. However, the modern studies of C. cassia are still not complete and more in-depth investigations need to be conducted in alimentotherapy, health product, toxicity and side effects, and more bioactive components and potential pharmacological effects need to be explored in the future.

Trans-Cinnamaldehyde Inhibits IL-1β-Stimulated Inflammation in Chondrocytes by Suppressing NF-κB and p38-JNK Pathways and Exerts Chondrocyte Protective Effects in a Rat Model of Osteoarthritis

Objective

Trans-cinnamaldehyde (TCA), a compound from Cinnamomum cassia Presl, has been reported to have anti-inflammatory effect. However, its effect on cartilage degradation in osteoarthritis is unclear. This study is designed to examine the effects of TCA on cartilage in vitro and in vivo.

Material and Methods

SW1353 cells and human primary chondrocytes were treated with varying concentrations of TCA (2-20 μg/ml) for 2 h followed by IL-1β stimulation. Cell viability was examined by the MTT assay. Expression of MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-13, ADAMTS-4, and ADAMTS-5 was examined by Western blot and RT-qPCR. Monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced OA was established in rats to assess the chondrocyte protective effects of intraperitoneal injection of TCA (50 mg/kg).

Results

TCA at a concentration of 10 μg/ml had no significant effect on cell viability. MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-13, ADAMTS-4, and ADAMTS-5 were decreased by TCA 2-10 μg/ml in a dose-dependent manner (all P<0.05). Pretreatment with TCA decreased the degradation of IκBα and increased the expression of p-IκBα, indicating that NF-κB inactivation was induced by TCA in IL-1β-stimulated SW1353 cells. Pretreatment with TCA decreased the levels of p-p38 and p-JNK, while the levels of p-ERK were not significantly affected. TCA 10 μg/ml significantly decreased expression levels of MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-13, ADAMTS-4, and ADAMTS-5. In vivo results showed that TCA alleviated cartilage destruction and the OARSI scores.

Conclusion

TCA possesses anti-inflammatory effect in vitro and exerts chondrocyte protective effects in vivo, in which NF-κB and p38-JNK were involved.

Evaluation of the anti-arthritic activity of Cinnamomum cassia bark extract in experimental models

BACKGROUND

Cinnamomum cassia iswidely used as a traditional medicinal plant for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to assess the anti-arthritic activity of C. cassia bark hydroalcoholic extract (CCHE) in different arthritic animal models.

METHODS

In formaldehyde model, sub-plantar administration of 0.1 ml of formaldehyde (2% v/v) into the right hind paws of Wistar albino rats on days 0 and 3. The rats were divided into six groups as follows: normal control, disease control, indomethacin group (3 mg/kg, p.o.) and three groups, treated with 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg CCHE (p.o.). Joint diameter was measured, and ankle joints were collected for MDA and GSH measurements. In complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis model, CFA was injected into the sub-plantar surface of the right hind paw in rats. Joint diameter was measured, and serum TNF-α and IL-1β were measured. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses were also performed.

RESULTS

CCHE treatment significantly (p < 0.01) reduced MDA levels and joint swelling in a concentration-dependent manner in rats with formaldehyde-induced arthritis, in which GSH levels were elevated (p < 0.01). In rats with CFA-induced arthritis, CCHE treatment significantly reduced joint swelling as well as IL-1β and TNF-α levels (p < 0.01). TNF-α receptor expression was decreased in rats treated with indomethacin or CCHE.

CONCLUSION

Based on these findings, it can be concluded that C. cassia possesses anti-arthritic properties.

The enhancing effect of Aubang Gahl Soo on the hippocampal synaptic plasticity and memory through enhancing cholinergic system in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Aubang Gahl Soo (AGS) is a Korean traditional drink manufactured from medicinal plants and fruits using sugar or honey. Although traditional old book stated its effects on body, there is no scientific evidence yet. Therefore, in the present study, we tested AGS on brain functions.

AIM OF THIS STUDY

In this study, we tried to uncover the effect of on brain functions. To do this we examined the action of AGS on the hippocampal synaptic function and memory in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To examine the effect of AGS on synaptic plasticity, we observed input-output curves (I/O curve), paired-pulse facilitation (PPF), and long-term potentiation (LTP) using mouse hippocampal slices. Moreover, to investigate the functional relevance of the effect of AGS on synaptic plasticity, we conducted passive avoidance, Y-maze and Morris water maze tests. To examine relevant mechanism, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and acetylcholine (ACh) level assay were also conducted.

RESULTS

In the basal synaptic transmission study, we found that AGS did not affect I/O curves and PPF. However, AGS facilitated hippocampal LTP in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, AGS blocked AChE activity (IC₅₀ = 485 μg/ml). Moreover, ACh level was increased by AGS (100 μg/ml) treatment. Along with this, facilitating effect of AGS on hippocampal LTP also blocked by scopolamine, a muscarinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist. Moreover, AGS also ameliorated memory impairments induced by scopolamine in passive avoidance, Y-maze, and Morris water maze tests.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that AGS facilitates hippocampal LTP through activating cholinergic system and ameliorates cholinergic dysfunction-induced memory deficit.

Essential Oils' Chemical Characterization and Investigation of Some Biological Activities: A Critical Review

This review covers literature data summarizing, on one hand, the chemistry of essential oils and, on the other hand, their most important activities. Essential oils, which are complex mixtures of volatile compounds particularly abundant in aromatic plants, are mainly composed of terpenes biogenerated by the mevalonate pathway. These volatile molecules include monoterpenes (hydrocarbon and oxygenated monoterpens), and also sesquiterpenes (hydrocarbon and oxygenated sesquiterpens). Furthermore, they contain phenolic compounds, which are derived via the shikimate pathway. Thanks to their chemical composition, essential oils possess numerous biological activities (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, etc…) of great interest in food and cosmetic industries, as well as in the human health field.

Mexican medicinal plants with anxiolytic or antidepressant activity: Focus on preclinical research

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Anxiety and depression are considered the most prevalent psychiatric disorders worldwide. In Mexico, the use of medicinal plants to alleviate the symptoms associated with these psychiatric disorders is increasing. However, there is little scientific evidence that validates the efficacy of these plants. This evidence needs to be critically revised, and further studied to provided scientific support for their use.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To identify the plants that are used in Mexico for the treatment of disorders related to anxiety and depression, and to review the current preclinical and when available, clinical information of these plants.

METHODS

We searched in scientific databases (Pubmed, Web of Science, Scopus and other web sources such as "Biblioteca digital de la medicina tradicional Mexicana" ) for Mexican plants used for the treatment of anxiety and depression that have been analyzed in preclinical studies. Additional information was obtained from published books. For this review, we also consider those plants used in Mexican traditional medicine for the treatment of "nervios," "susto" or "espanto;" common terms that describe symptoms related to anxiety and depression disorders.

RESULTS

The bibliographic search identified 49 plants used in Mexican traditional medicine for the treatment of disorders related to anxiety and depression. From all these plants, 59% were analyzed in preclinical research, and only 8% were tested in clinical studies; only a few of these studies tried to elucidate their mechanism of action. In general, it is proposed that the plant extracts interact with the GABAergic system. However, only part of these studies attempted to analyze other neurotransmitter systems. Finally, in some cases, drug-herbal interactions were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a large number of Mexican medicinal plants used as a treatment for anxiety and depression disorders. Although some of these plants have been studied in preclinical research, in most cases these studies are preliminary, and the understanding of the mechanism of action is inconclusive. The need for systematic studies in preclinical and clinical research is evident, and efforts should be done to fulfill these research. Finally, it is important also to study possible drug-herbal interactions to establish specific recommendations for people that use these plants as anxiolytic or antidepressant treatments either alone or in combination with another type of medicine.

Tagetes lucida Cav.: Ethnobotany, phytochemistry and pharmacology of its tranquilizing properties

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Morelos State is one of the most important regions of Mexico where several plant species are used in traditional medicine to influence central nervous system (CNS) activity; for example Tagetes lucida Cav.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the ethnobotany, phytochemistry and pharmacology of the tranquilizing properties of T. lucida aerial parts.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Data on the medicinal uses of T. lucida were explored by interviewing healers and merchants of local markets in different regions of Morelos State by using a questionnaire. Anxiolytic and/or sedative-like responses of the T. lucida were investigated in experimental models in mice such as: open-field, exploration cylinder, hole-board, plus-maze, and the barbituric-induced hypnosis potentiation. The possible mechanism of action was explored in the presence of WAY100635 (0.32mg/kg, i.p.) and flumazenil (10mg/kg, i.p.) antagonists. A feasible active compound was isolated and identified by using conventional chromatography, including UHPLC and MS (DART) [M+H]+ techniques.

RESULTS

Interviews of healers and merchants from ten local regions of Morelos State showed that they recommended T. lucida as infusion and as tincture for several culture-bound syndromes associated with the CNS. Anxiolytic and sedative-like activities of polar extracts were corroborated in the experimental models; these effects were inhibited in the presence of 5-HT1A and GABA/BDZ receptor antagonists. Dimethylfraxetin was identified as one possible active compound.

CONCLUSIONS

The results support the anxiolytic and sedative-like properties of T. lucida in traditional medicine by involving serotonergic and GABAergic neurotransmission and coumarinic constituents.

Anti-stress effects of 20(S)-protopanaxadiol and 20(S)-protopanaxatriol in immobilized mice

Panax ginseng C.A. MEYER (Araliaceae), which contains ginsenosides as its main components, has been shown to have various biological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, anti-stress, and anti-tumor effects. Orally administered ginsenoside Rb1 and Re are metabolized to 20(S)-protopanaxadiol (PPD) and compound K via ginsenoside Rd and 20(S)-protopanaxatriol (PPT) and ginsenoside Rh1 via ginsenoside Rg1 by gut microbiota, respectively. Therefore, we investigated the anti-stress effects of these metabolites, PPD and PPT, by measuring their anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory effects in immobilized mice. Treatment with PPD and PPT prior to immobilization stress increased the time spent in open arms and open arm entries in the elevated plus-maze (EPM) test. The anxiolytic effects of PPD (10 mg/kg) and PPT (10 mg/kg) were comparable to that of buspirone (1 mg/kg). This observed anxiolytic effect of PPD was significantly blocked by flumazenil or bicuculline, and the effect of PPT was blocked by WAY-100635. Treatment with PPD also potently suppressed immobilization stress-induced serum levels of corticosterone and interleukin (IL)-6 by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. However, PPT treatment did not suppress them. Based on these findings, PPD and PPT may exhibit the anxiolytic effect via γ-aminobutyrateA (GABAA) receptor(s) and serotonergic receptor(s), respectively, and PPD may have an anti-inflammatory effect that is more potent than that of PPT.

Cinnamomum cassia: an implication of serotonin reuptake inhibition in animal models of depression

The aim of the study was to explore the traditional use of Cinnamomum cassia against depression. The standardised methanolic extract of the bark of C. cassia was evaluated for antidepressant activity using various behavioural tests, i.e. tail suspension test (TST), forced swim test (FST) and locomotor activity test. The serotonergic and noradrenergic modulation was assessed using 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)-induced head twitches and yohimbine potentiation tests, respectively. The fluoxetine and phenelzine were used as positive controls in the study. The C. cassia extract significantly decreased the immobility time in TST (maximum effective dose tested was 50 mg/kg) while no effect was observed in FST and locomotor activity test. The extract significantly increased the 5-HTP-induced head twitches while yohimbine-induced lethality remained unaltered. The aforementioned results are similar to that caused by fluoxetine. The standardised methanolic extract of C. cassia demonstrated antidepressant activity that can be attributed to rise in serotonin levels.

Anti-stress effect of astragaloside IV in immobilized mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Astragaloside IV, a major component extracted from the roots of Astragalus membranaceus (AM), possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anti-fibrotic, anti-infarction and immunoregulatory effects. To clarify anti-stress effect of AM, anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory effects of 80% ethanol extract of AM and astragaloside IV were investigated in immobilization stress model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The mice were orally administered with AM (50, 200, and 500 mg/kg), astragaloside IV (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg) and buspirone, a positive drug, 1h before immobilization treated for 2h. For anxiolytic activity assay, EPM test was performed in mice. For anti-inflammatory activity assay, serum levels of corticosterone, IL-6 and TNF-α were measured using ELISA kits.

RESULTS

AM extract and astragaloside IV increased dose-dependently time spent on open arms and open arm entries in the EPM test. Anxiolytic effects of AM extract (500 mg/kg) and astragaloside IV (20 mg/kg) were comparable to those of buspirone (1 mg/kg). Their anxiolytic effects were blocked by WAY-100635 (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.), a 5-HT1A receptor antagonist (p<0.01), but not by flumazenil (3 mg/kg, i.p.) and bicuculline (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.), GABAA receptor antagonists. AM extract and astragaloside IV also reduced serum levels of corticosterone, IL-6 and TNF-α dose-dependently.

CONCLUSIONS

AM, particularly astragaloside IV, may ameliorate immobilized stress-induced anxiety and inflammation.

Enhancing Spatial Memory: Anxiolytic and Antidepressant Effects of Tapinanthus dodoneifolius (DC) Danser in Mice

We evaluated the anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of the aqueous extract of the bark of Tapinanthus dodoneifolius (TAE) (Danser) (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg), using open field, elevated plus maze, and forced swimming tests. Effect of TAE was compared to standard drugs diazepam (2 mg/kg) and imipramine (10 mg/kg). Additionally, the same doses of TAE were evaluated on rat's memory using Y-maze task. Results showed a significant (P < 0.05; 100 mg/kg) increase in the percentage of open arm entry and the time spent in the open arms in the elevated plus maze, suggesting an anxiolytic activity of the extract. In a dose-dependant manner, TAE at 25 mg/kg significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the number of lines crossed and the rearing behavior in the open field test, suggesting its possible sedative activity. In the forced swimming test, the immobility time of the animal was significantly reduced (P < 0.05) by TAE (100 mg/kg), compared to control, and this effect was quite comparable to that of imipramine. In the Y-maze paradigm, TAE at 50 mg/kg caused a significant increase in the spontaneous alternations but with a significant decrease in exploratory behavioral pattern. Taking these results together, TAE improved the spatial memory and showed anxiolytic, antidepressant, and sedative activities. The present results support the anxiolytic and antidepressant activities of TAE and, to our knowledge, for the first time, demonstrate its enhancing effect on memory.

A possible mechanism for the anxiolytic-like effect of gallic acid in the rat elevated plus maze

This work was performed to characterize the possible mechanisms involved in the anxiolytic-like activity of gallic acid (GA) in the rat elevated plus maze (EPM) test. Male Wistar rats were acutely treated with a single dose of GA (10-500 mg/kg, i.p.) or diazepam and buspirone, 30 min prior to behavioral assessment in the EPM, open-field and rotarod tests. Treatment with GA markedly produced an increase in the time spent and entries in the open arms of EPM at doses of 30 and 300 mg/kg, respectively. These effects were comparable to those of the diazepam (1 mg/kg, i.p.) and buspirone (1 mg/kg, i.p.). Pretreatment with benzodiazepine antagonist flumazenil (3 mg/kg, i.p.) partially blocked the anxiolytic-like effect of GA. However, an increase in the time spent and entries in the open arms of EPM observed with GA treatment were significantly inhibited by the 5-HT1A receptor antagonist WAY-100635 (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.). In the open-field test, only GA at a dose of 500 mg/kg decreased locomotor activity in rats. Moreover, GA (10-300 mg/kg, i.p.) or diazepam and buspirone did not alter motor coordination in the rotarod test. These results indicate that GA is an effective anxiolytic agent at low doses, while at the highest dose it has sedative effect. Also this study suggests that the anxiolytic-like activity of GA is primarily mediated by the 5-HT1A but not benzodiazepine receptors.

Anxiolytic-Like Effects of Chrysanthemum indicum Aqueous Extract in Mice: Possible Involvement of GABAA Receptors and 5-HT1A Receptors

Chrysanthemum indicum Linne is an ancient herbal medicine used to treat bone and muscle deterioration, ocular infl ammation, headache, and anxiety in Korea, China, and Japan. Furthermore, tea derived from Chrysanthemum indicum Linne has been used to treat anxiety by facilitating relaxation and curing insomnia. However, no reports exist on the anxiolytic-like effects of Chrysanthemum indicum Linne water extract (CWE) in mice. In the present study, we investigated the anxiolytic-like effects of CWE using the elevated plus-maze (EPM) test in mice. CWE, at a dose of 500 mg/kg (p.o.), signifi cantly increased the time spent in the open arms of the EPM compared to a vehicle-injected control group. Moreover, the effect of CWE (500 mg/kg) was blocked by bicuculline (a selective GABA_A receptor antagonist) and WAY 100635 (a selective 5-HT_1A receptor antagonist). Taken together, these fi ndings suggest that the anxiolytic-like effects of CWE might be mediated by the GABA_A receptor and the 5-HT_1A receptor.

Design and formulation technique of a novel drug delivery system for azithromycin and its anti-bacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus

Azithromycin, an important member of the azalide subclass is effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms. Certain physicochemical properties of the drug like poor water solubility and relatively low bioavailability of 37% due to incomplete absorption after ingestion, aroused the need for the development of a novel drug delivery system to enhance the solubilization potential and antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus at a very low concentration. Cinnamon oil (Cinnamonum zeylanicum)-based microemulsion system formulated using non-ionic surfactant, Tween 20, and water was characterized. The drug-incorporated system F4 (oil to surfactant ratio of 1:4 (v/v)) showed enhanced solubilization of the drug, droplet diameter of 5-8 nm, and a good thermodynamic stability. The effect of surfactant concentration exhibited a negative correlation with droplet size diameter and turbidity and a positive correlation with stability and viscosity. The system was investigated for its antibacterial activity that demonstrated a significantly higher activity at a minimum concentration (4 μg/ml) of the novel drug-loaded system in comparison with the conventional formulation (128 μg/ml). Examination through scanning electron microscopy analysis further confirmed a considerable morphologic variation due to alteration in the membrane permeability of the microemulsion-treated system. The small droplet size of the microemulsion system and the antibacterial property of cinnamon oil, together, accounts clearly for the enhanced efficacy of the new formulated system F4 and not just azithromycin alone. Staining with acridine orange/ethidium bromide dyes as examined through fluorescence microscopy also substantiated with the results of membrane permeability of bacteria. Thus, our study discloses a potential oral drug delivery system of azithromycin with improved biocompatibility.

Anxiolytic effects of Julibroside C1 isolated from Albizzia julibrissin in mice

Julibroside C1 is a saponin-containing compound isolated from Albizzia julibrissin Durazz. In this study, we investigated the putative anxiolytic effects of Julibroside C1 using the elevated plus maze (EPM) in mice. Julibroside C1 at doses of 0.5 and 1 mg/kg significantly increased the time spent in the open arms and the number of entries into the open arms of the EPM compared to the control group. Moreover, the anxiolytic-like effects of Julibroside C1 (0.5 mg/kg) were blocked by WAY-100635 (5-HT1A receptor antagonist), bicuculline (GABA(A) receptor antagonist), and flumazenil (antagonist of the GABA(A) receptor benzodiazepine site). However, Julibroside C1 did not change locomotor activity or induce myorelaxant effects. We used quantitative receptor autoradiography to investigate the effects of Julibroside C1 on alterations in mouse brain receptors. After acute treatment with Julibroside C1 (0.5 mg/kg), [(3)H]-8-OH-DPAT binding was significantly decreased in the CA1 region of the hippocampus and [(3)H]-flunitrazepam binding was decreased remarkably in the cingulate cortex region. However, [(3)H]-muscimol binding did not show a significant change in any brain region. Taken together, our findings suggest that Julibroside C1 shows anxiolytic-like effects, which might be mediated by the 5-HT1A and GABA(A)-benzodiazepine receptor systems.

Antibacterial microemulsion prevents sepsis and triggers healing of wound in wistar rats

Microemulsions are thermodynamically stable isotropic systems comprising of oil, surfactant and water. Cinnamon oil (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) microemulsion was formulated using non-ionic surfactant Tween 20 and water. With oil to surfactant (v/v) ratio of 1:4, cinnamon oil microemulsion (CMF4) was formulated having droplet diameter of 5.79 and kinetically stable for 240 days. TEM images confirmed the spherical morphology of emulsion droplets. Surfactant concentration demonstrated a negative correlation with droplet diameter and turbidity but positive correlation with stability and viscosity. Formulated microemulsion (CMF4) was evaluated for bactericidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus by dose and time dependent killing experiment. SEM analysis suggested that microemulsion treatment resulted in alteration of permeability and surface features of bacterial cell membrane which lead to lysis and cell death. CMF4 showed no erythema for skin irritation test in wistar rats and triggered wound-healing process in wistar rats. Control group without any treatment, cinnamon oil only and neomycin treated group healed in 20, 16 and 16 days, whereas cinnamon oil formulation (CMF4) treated group was healed in 14 days.

Evaluation of anxiolytic activity of compound Valeriana jatamansi Jones in mice

Background

Compound Valeriana jatamansi Jones is a formula for treating anxiety-related diseases in the clinic, which is composed of Valeriana jatamansi Rhizoma et Radix, Ziziphi Spinosae Semen, Albiziae Cortex and Junci Medulla. The purpose of this study was to explore the anxiolytic properties of this compound in mice.

Methods

Male ICR mice were treated with compound Valerianae Jatamansi Jones (1.2 g/kg, 2.4 g/kg, 4.8 g/kg), saline, diazepam (2 mg/kg) orally for 10 days and then exposed to elevated maze-plus (EPM) and light–dark box (LDB). The effects of the compound on spontaneous activity were evaluated by locomotor activity test. We further investigated the mechanism of action underlying the anxiolytic-like effect of compound by pre-treating animals with antagonists of benzodiazepine (flumazenil, 3mg/kg) prior to evaluation using EPM and LDB.

Results

Compound Valerianae Jatamansi Jones (2.4, 4.8 g/kg, p.o.) significantly increased entries (P<0.05) into and time spent (P<0.05) on the open arms of the EPM, and number of transitions (P<0.05) and time spent (P<0.05) in the light compartment of the LDB. However, the anxiolytic-like effects of compound were significantly reduced by pre-treatment with flumazenil (P>0.05). In addition, compound Valerianae Jatamansi Jones treatment didn’t affect the spontaneous activity in mice (P> 0.05).

Conclusions

The present study supports the hypothesis that compound Valeriana jatamansi Jones exert anxiolytic action but no sedative effects in mice and that this effect might be mediated by benzodiazepine receptors.

Anxiolytic and Antidepressant-Like Effects of the Aqueous Extract of Alafia multiflora Stem Barks in Rodents

The present study examined the anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of the aqueous extract of Alafia multiflora Stapf (AM) stem barks (150 and 300 mg/kg, 7 days administration) on rats and mice, using experimental paradigms of anxiety and depression. In the open field, the aqueous extract increased significantly the number of center square crossed and the time spent at the center of the field as well as the rearing time, while the grooming time was reduced significantly. In the elevated plus maze, the aqueous extract increased the time spent and the number of entries in the open arms. All these effects were also completely reversed by flumazenil, an antagonist of benzodiazepine receptors and pindolol a β-adrenoceptors blocker/5-HT 1A/1B receptor antagonist. The time spent in the light compartment, the latency time, and the number of the light-dark transitions increased significantly in the light/dark exploration test after the treatment with AM. The extract was able to reduce significantly the immobility time and increase swimming as well as climbing duration. Taken together, the present work evidenced anxiolytic effects of the aqueous extract of AM that might involve an action on benzodiazepine-type receptors and an antidepressant effect where noradrenergic mechanisms will probably play a role.

Formulas used by Tibetan doctors at Men-Tsee-Khang in India for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders and their correlation with pharmacological data

The aim of the present study was to identify formulas used at Men-Tsee-Khang (Tibetan Medical and Astrological Institute), India, for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders and to compare the Tibetan usage of particular ingredients with pharmacological data from the scientific database. Using ethnographic methods, five doctors were selected and interviewed. A correlation was observed between central nervous system disorders and rLung, one of the three humors in Tibetan medicine, which imbalance is the source of mental disorders, and ten multi-ingredient formulas used to treat the imbalance of this particular humor were identified. These formulas utilize 61 ingredients; among them were 48 plant species. Each formula treats several symptoms related to rLung imbalance, so the plants may have therapeutic uses distinct from those of the formulas in which they are included. Myristica fragrans, nutmeg, is contained in 100% of the formulas, and its seeds exhibit stimulant and depressant actions affecting the central nervous system. Preclinical and clinical data from the scientific literature indicate that all of the formulas include ingredients with neuropsychiatric action and corroborate the therapeutic use of 75.6% of the plants. These findings indicate a level of congruence between the therapeutic uses of particular plant species in Tibetan and Western medicines.

The GABAergic system contributes to the anxiolytic-like effect of essential oil from Cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The essential oil (EO) from Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf is reported to have a wide range of biological activities and is widely used in traditional medicine as an infusion or decoction. However, despite this widely use, there are few controlled studies confirming its biological activity in central nervous system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The anxiolytic-like activity of the EO was investigated in light/dark box (LDB) and marble-burying test (MBT) and the antidepressant activity was investigated in forced-swimming test (FST) in mice. Flumazenil, a competitive antagonist of benzodiazepine binding and the selective 5-HT(1A) receptor antagonist WAY100635 was used in experimental procedures to determine the action mechanism of EO. To exclude any false positive results in experimental procedures, mice were submitted to the rota-rod test. We also quantified some neurotransmitters at specific brain regions after EO oral acute treatment.

RESULTS

The present work found anxiolytic-like activity of the EO at the dose of 10mg/kg in a LDB. Flumazenil, but not WAY100635, was able to reverse the effect of the EO in the LDB, indicating that the EO activity occurs via the GABA(A) receptor-benzodiazepine complex. Only at higher doses did the EO potentiate diethyl-ether-induced sleeping time in mice. In the FST and MBT, EO showed no effect. Finally, the increase in time spent in the light chamber, demonstrated by concomitant treatment with ineffective doses of diazepam (DZP) and the EO, revealed a synergistic effect of the two compounds. The lack of activity after long-term treatment in the LDB test might be related to tolerance induction, even in the DZP-treated group. Furthermore, there were no significant differences between groups after either acute or repeated treatments with the EO in the rota-rod test. Neurochemical evaluation showed no amendments in neurotransmitter levels evaluated in cortex, striatum, pons, and hypothalamus.

CONCLUSIONS

The results corroborate the use of Cymbopogon citratus in folk medicine and suggest that the anxiolytic-like effect of its EO is mediated by the GABA(A) receptor-benzodiazepine complex.

Improved sexual behavior in male rats treated with a Chinese herbal extract: hormonal and neuronal implications

AIM

To investigate the influence of an extract obtained from five Chinese medicinal plants on sexual behavior of adult male rats.

METHODS

The extract was administered at doses of 30, 60 and 120 mg/kg by oral gavage, acutely (one time, 45 min before mating test) or subchronically (daily for 10 days) in sexually potent and sexually sluggish/impotent rats. Sexual behavior, serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone (T) were evaluated in treated rats and compared with controls receiving vehicle. The effect of the extract on central dopaminergic neurotransmission was assessed in the nucleus accumbens using a microdialysis technique.

RESULTS

In sexually potent rats, both acute and subchronic treatment with the extract dosed at 30 and 60 mg/kg reduced mount latency and intromission latency. In sluggish/impotent rats, the acutely administered extract at the dose of 60 mg/kg shortened ejaculation latency, whereas subchronically administered at the doses of 30 and 60 mg/kg, reduced mount, intromission and ejaculation latencies, increasing also the percentage of mounting and ejaculating rats. The extract dosed at 60 mg/kg significantly increased LH and T following acute and subchronic administration and increased 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid levels in the nucleus accumbens, 30 min after the acute administration.

CONCLUSION

The improvement in both appetitive and consummatory components of sexual behavior observed in male rats treated with the extract could be ascribed to increased serum T level in parallel with the activation of the central dopaminergic system.

Anxiolytic-like effects of sanjoinine A isolated from Zizyphi Spinosi Semen: possible involvement of GABAergic transmission

This experiment was performed to investigate the anxiolytic-like effects of sanjoinine A, one of the major alkaloid compounds in Zizyphi Spinosi Semen (ZSS), by using experimental paradigms of anxiety in comparison with a known anxiolytic, diazepam. Sanjoinine A (2.0 mg/kg) increased the percentage of time spent on the open arms and the number of open arms entries in the elevated plus-maze test, increased the number of head dips in the hole-board test, and increased the percentage of time spent in the center zone and the center zone locomotor distance in the open field box experiment. However, sanjoinine A (0.5, 1.0, 2.0 mg/kg) had no effect on locomotor activity, while diazepam (2.0 mg/kg) significantly reduced locomotor activity. Sanjoinine A (0.5, 1.0, 2.0 mg/kg) did not influence the grip force in the grip strength meter test either. Molecular experiments showed that sanjoinine A (2.0, 5.0 microM) increased chloride influx in cultured cerebellar granule cells. In addition, sanjoinine A (5.0 microM) treatment resulted in over-expression of alpha- and gamma-subunits of GABA(A) receptors and glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD65/67) in cultured cerebellar granule cells. It is concluded that sanjoinine A may have anxiolytic-like effects in the elevated plus-maze, hole-board test and open field test, and these effects may be mediated by GABAergic transmission.