A novel steroid from Elephantopus scaber L. an ethnomedicinal plant with antidiabetic activity

Structurally diverse terpenoids from Elephantopus scaber L. and their acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activities

Three undescribed compounds elephantopuscabers A-C, along with one previously reported compound spirowallichiione, were isolated from Elephantopus scaber L. Their structures were determined via extensive NMR spectroscopic analysis, quantum chemical calculations, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction crystallography. A plausible biosynthetic pathway for spirowallichiione was proposed. All the isolated compounds were tested for their acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activities. Among them, elephantopuscaber B and C displayed promising inhibitory activities against AChE, and the binding sites were predicted by molecular docking.

Potential use of Balanophora latisepala (V. Tiegh.) Lec. extract for the treatment of diabetes

INTRODUCTION

Balanophora latisepala (BL) is a chlorophyll-free and obligate parasitic plant found across mountainous areas of An Giang, Vietnam. This study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of extracts from BL, herbs mentioned in many traditional medicines in the treatment of diabetes, on laboratory mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effects of BL aqueous, methanol, and ethanol extracts on the blood glucose levels, hematological indices, liver enzymes, and pancreatic tissue structure of normal, glucose-tolerant mice, and diabetic mice treated with streptozotocin (STZ) were assessed. Mice were orally administered extracts at a concentration of 500 mg/kg.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The aqueous and ethanol extracts did not affect the blood glucose levels of healthy and glucose-tolerant mice (P > 0.05). The methanol extract reduced the blood glucose of healthy mice (P < 0.05) but did not affect the blood glucose of glucose-tolerant mice 3 h after administration (P > 0.05). When taking the methanol and ethanol extracts, the diabetic mice experienced a 45.67% and a 40.33% decrease in blood glucose levels after 21 days of research, respectively. Aqueous extract and gliclazide (10 mg/kg) showed no effect on reducing blood glucose levels in diabetic mice over the 21 days of the study. Both methanol and ethanol extracts were effective in regulating liver enzyme levels in diabetic mice. In both untreated and treated diabetic mice, pancreatic islet structures were degraded with the appearance of gaps resulting from β-cell degeneration.

CONCLUSION

This implies that ethanol extracts have potential applications in regulating blood glucose levels.

Molecular Modeling and Synthesis of Indoline-2,3-dione-Based Benzene Sulfonamide Derivatives and Their Inhibitory Activity against α-Glucosidase and α-Amylase Enzymes

Diabetes is also known as a critical and noisy disease. Hyperglycemia, that is, increased blood glucose level is a common effect of uncontrolled diabetes, and over a period of time can cause serious effects on health such as blood vessel damage and nervous system damage. However, many attempts have been made to find suitable and beneficial solutions to overcome diabetes. Considering this fact, we synthesized a novel series of indoline-2,3-dione-based benzene sulfonamide derivatives and evaluated them against α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes. Out of the synthesized sixteen compounds (1-16), only three compounds showed better results; the IC₅₀ value was in the range of 12.70 ± 0.20 to 0.90 ± 0.10 μM for α-glucosidase against acarbose 11.50 ± 0.30 μM and 14.90 ± 0.20 to 1.10 ± 0.10 μM for α-amylase against acarbose 12.20 ± 0.30 μM. Among the series, only three compounds showed better inhibitory potential such as analogues 11 (0.90 ± 0.10 μM for α-glucosidase and 1.10 ± 0.10 μM for α-amylase), 1 (1.10 ± 0.10 μM for α-glucosidase and 1.30 ± 0.10 μM for α-amylase), and 6 (1.20 ± 0.10 μM for α-glucosidase and 1.60 ± 0.10 μM for α-amylase). Molecular modeling was performed to determine the binding affinity of active interacting residues against these enzymes, and it was found that benzenesulfonohydrazide derivatives can be indexed as suitable inhibitors for diabetes mellitus.

New caffeoyl derivatives from Elephantopus scaber

Three new caffeoyl derivatives (1-3), together with two known ones (4-5), were isolated from the whole plant of Elephantopus scaber Linn. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated using detailed spectroscopic analysis. Compound 4 was obtained and its NMR data were given for the first time. All isolates were evaluated for their anti-inflammatory activity against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated nitric oxide (NO) production and pro-inflammatory cytokines release in RAW 264.7 cells. Compounds 2-5 showed mild inhibitory activities with IC₅₀ values ranging from 64.78 to 87.21 μM, and 3-4 could inhibit LPS-induced tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) production.

Effects of Elephantopus scaber extract on growth, proximate composition, immunity, intestinal microbiota and resistance of the GIFT strain of Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus to Streptococcus agalactiae

This study aimed to investigate the effects of Elephantopus scaber extract on the GIFT (genetic improvement of farmed tilapia) strain of Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus. A total of 800 tilapia with an initial body weight of 1.34 ± 0.09 g each were randomly divided into five groups. The tilapia in the control group (E0 group) were fed on a basal diet only. Meanwhile, tilapia in the four experimental groups were fed on a basal diet supplemented with 1 g/kg (E1 group), 3 g/kg (E2 group), 5 g/kg (E3 group), and 7 g/kg (E4 group) of E. scaber extract for 10 weeks. Results showed that the survival rate was higher in the experimental groups than in the control group. Compared with the control group, some growth parameters (FW, WGR, SGR, VSI, and HSI) were significantly improved in the E1 group and E2 group. The crude lipid content in the dorsal muscle and liver was lower in the E1 group than in the control group. After E. scaber extract supplementation, activities of immunity-related enzymes (ACP, AKP, T-AOC, SOD, CAT, GSH-Px and LZM) in plasma, liver, spleen and head kidney, and expressions of immunity-related genes (IL-1β, IFN-γ, TNF-α, and CCL-3) in liver, spleen and head kidney showed various degrees of improvement, while MDA content and Hsp70 expression level were decreased. The survival rate of tilapia increased in all the supplementation groups after Streptococcus agalactiae treatment. E. scaber extract addition changed the species composition, abundance, and diversity of intestinal microbiota in tilapia. These results demonstrate that E. scaber extract supplementation in diet can improve the growth, immunity, and disease resistance of GIFT against S. agalactiae. E. scaber extract supplementation can also change intestinal microbiota and reduce crude lipid content in dorsal muscle and liver. The above indicators show that the optimal dose of E. scaber extract for GIFT is 1 g/kg.

Benzodioxole grafted spirooxindole pyrrolidinyl derivatives: synthesis, characterization, molecular docking and anti-diabetic activity

A highly stereoselective, three-component method has been developed to synthesize pyrrolidine and pyrrolizidine containing spirooxindole derivatives. The interaction between the dipolarophile α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds and the dipole azomethine ylide formed in situ by the reaction of 1,2-dicarbonyl compounds and secondary amino acids is referred to as the 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction. The reaction conditions were optimized to achieve excellent stereo- and regioselectivity. Shorter reaction time, simple work-up and excellent yields are the salient features of the present approach. Various spectroscopic methods and single crystal X-ray diffraction examinations of one example of compound 6i validated the stereochemistry of the expected products. The anti-diabetic activity of the newly synthesized spirooxindole derivatives was tested against the α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes. Compound 6i was found to exhibit potent inhibition activity against α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes which is further evidenced by molecular docking studies.

A highly stereoselective, three-component method has been developed for the synthesis of pyrrolidine and pyrrolizidine containing spirooxindole derivatives that exhibits excellent anti-diabetic activity.

LC-ToF-ESI-MS Patterns of Hirsutinolide-like Sesquiterpenoids Present in the Elephantopus mollis Kunth Extract and Chemophenetic Significance of Its Chemical Constituents

A total of nine sesquiterpenoid lactones together with phenolic compounds and other terpenes were identified from the crude methanol extract of Elephantopus mollis Kunth. Compounds were isolated using different chromatographic techniques and their structures were determined by NMR and IR spectroscopy as well as mass spectrometry. The structures of some detected compounds were assigned based on LC-ToF-ESI-MS screening of main fractions/subfractions from flash chromatography and comparison with isolated analogues as standards. The findings revealed not only the in-source loss of water as the base peak in hirsutinolides but also the in-source loss of corresponding alcohol when the oxygen at position 1 is alkylated. The present study also draws up a complement of data with respect to hirsutinolide-like sesquiterpene lactones whose LC-MS characteristics are not available in the literature. The chemophenetic significance is also discussed. Some of the isolated compounds were reported for the first time to be found in the species, the genus as well as the plant family. The medium-polar fractions of the crude extract, also containing the larger amount of sesquiterpenoid lactones, exhibited activity both against a cancer cell line and bacterial strains. Isolated lactones were also active against the cancer cell line, while the chlorogenic derivatives also valuable in Elephantopus genus showed potent radical scavenging activity. This is the first report of cytotoxic and antibacterial activities of our samples against the tested strains and cell line. The present study follows the ongoing research project dealing with the characterization of taxa with antibacterial and antiparasitic activities from Cameroonian pharmacopeia.

Evaluation of the Hypoglycemic Potential of Leaves Extract of Spondias pinnata (L.f.) Kurz. from Nepal

Spondias pinnata (L.f.) Kurz. (family: Anacardiaceae) is a wild deciduous tree indigenous to southeast Asian countries. Different parts of this plant are used traditionally for the treatment and cure of various disorders and illnesses. S. pinnata leaves are used to prevent and treat diabetes in traditional Balinese medicine. However, scientific study on the antihyperglycemic effect of its leaves has not been reported yet. Therefore, this study aims to perform phytochemical screening and investigate the hypoglycemic potential of S. pinnata leaves extract. Preliminary phytochemical screening of the hydroethanolic extract was performed following the standard tests. In vivo hypoglycemic activity of the leaves extract was evaluated using normal and glucose-loaded rats. The results displayed the presence of phytochemical constituents such as saponins, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and terpenoids. S. pinnata (500 mg/kg) and metformin (100 mg/kg) exhibited a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in blood glucose level at 1, 2, and 3 h in normal rats when compared to the control group. Metformin- (100 mg/kg)- and S. pinnata- (500 mg/kg)- treated groups showed a maximum decrease in the blood glucose level at 3 h after single-dose administration in the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). In conclusion, S. pinnata leaves possess a significant hypoglycemic activity in the animal model and thus support its traditional use to treat diabetes. Therefore, a detailed mechanism-based study and isolation of bioactive compounds from S. pinnata leaves would be beneficial in the future for the search of new hypoglycemic agents.

Pharmacologic activities of phytosteroids in inflammatory diseases: Mechanism of action and therapeutic potentials

Natural products and their derivatives are known to be useful for treating numerous diseases since ancient times. Because of their high therapeutic potentials, the use of different medicinal plants is possible to treat varied inflammation-mediated chronic diseases. Among natural products, phytosteroids have emerged as promising compounds mostly because they have diverse pharmacological activities. Currently, available medications exert numerous systemic toxicities, including hypertension, immune suppression, osteoporosis, and metabolic abnormalities. Thus, further research on phytosteroids to subside these complications is of significant importance. In this study, the information on phytosteroids, their types, and actions against inflammation, and allergic complications was collected by a systematic survey of literature on several scientific search engines. The literature review suggested that phytosteroids exhibit antiinflammatory action via different modes through transrepression or selective COX-2 enzymes. Also, in silico ADMET analysis was carried out on available phytosteroids to uncover their pharmacokinetic properties. Our analysis has shown that eight compounds: withaferin A, stigmasterol, β-sitosterol, guggulsterone, diosgenin, sarsasapogenin, physalin A, and dioscin, -isolated from medicinal plants show similar pharmacokinetic properties as compared to dexamethasone, commercially available glucocorticoid. These phytosteroids could be useful for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases, multiple sclerosis, asthma, and cardiovascular diseases. Thus, systematic research is required to explore potent phytosteroids with lesser side effects, which might substitute the current medications.

Three new sesquiterpene lactones from the whole plants of Elephantopus scaber

Three new sesquiterpene lactones, named scabertopinolides H - J (1 - 3), along with four known ones, desacylisodeoxyelephantopin 2-methylbutyrate (4), iso-17,19-dihydrodeoxyelephantopin (5), scabertopinolide D (6) and (2R,6R,7R,8S)-8-tigloyloxy-1(10),4(5),11(13)-germacratrien-2,15,6,12-diolide (7) were isolated from the whole plants of Elephantopus scaber. Their structures were elucidated by extensive analysis of spectroscopic data (including IR, UV, HRESIMS, 1 D and 2 D NMR) and single-crystal X-ray. These isolated compounds showed effective anti-inflammatory effects on LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells with IC₅₀ values of 6.27 ± 0.18 to 18.31 ± 1.38 μM.

Natural antioxidants for neuroinflammatory disorders and possible involvement of Nrf2 pathway: A review

The transcription factor Nrf2 (nuclear factor-erythroid 2 p45-related factor 2) play a crucial role in cellular redox and metabolic system. Activation of Nrf2 may be an effective therapeutic approach for neuroinflammatory disorders, through activation of antioxidant defences system, lower the inflammation, line up the mitochondrial function, and balancing of protein homeostasis. Various recent studies revealed that many of active substance obtained from plants have been found to activate the Nrf2 and to exert neuroprotective effects in various experimental models, raising the possibility that activation of Nrf2 may be an effective therapeutic approaches for neuroinflammatory disorders. The objective of this review was to evaluate the neuroprotective property of natural substance against neuroinflammatory disorders by reviewing the studies done till today. The outcomes of various in vitro and in vivo examinations have shown that natural compounds producing neuroprotective effects in neuronal system via activation of Nrf2. Herein, we also reviewed the studies to understand the role of Nrf2 for curing CNS disorders. Here we can conclude, herbal/natural moieties having potency to fight and prevent from neuroinflammatory disorders due to their abilities to activate Nrf2 pathway.

Elephantopus mollis Kunth extracts induce antiproliferation and apoptosis in human lung cancer and myeloid leukemia cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Elephantopus mollis Kunth (EM), which belongs to Asteraceae family, has been used as a folk medicine with diverse therapeutic properties. Previous studies reported that crude extracts of this plant could inhibit several cancer cell lines, including breast carcinoma MCF-7, liver carcinoma HepG2, colorectal carcinoma DLD-1, lung carcinoma NCI-H23, etc. AIM: In this study, the anticancer activity and associated molecular mechanism of EM which is distributed in Vietnam were investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The cytotoxicity of various EM extracts was evaluated on different cell lines by MTT assay. In addition, the effects of EM extracts on cell growth, cell morphology, nuclear morphology, caspase-3 activation, and mRNA expression levels of apoptosis-related genes were also examined.

RESULTS

Our results demonstrated that ethyl acetate extract (EM-EA) caused proliferative inhibition and apoptotic induction towards A549 lung cancer cells (IC₅₀ = 18.66 μg/ml, SI = 5.8) and HL60 leukemia cells (IC₅₀ = 7.45 μg/ml, SI = 14.5) while petroleum ether extract (EM-PE) showed high toxicity to HL60 cell line (IC₅₀ = 11.14 μg/ml, SI = 6.7). Notably, Raji lymphoma cells were also affected by these extracts (IC₅₀ < 20 μg/ml, SI > 4), which has not been reported yet. Furthermore, mechanisms of EM extracts were elucidated. The significant downregulation of PCNA mRNA level induced by EM-EA/PE extracts contributed to the cell-growth restraint. EM-EA extract might activate apoptosis in A549 cells through both extrinsic and intrinsic signaling pathways by causing a 1.55-fold increase in BID, 3.65-fold increase in BAK and 3.11-fold decrease in BCL-2 expression level. Meanwhile, with EM-EA-extract treatment, HL60 cells might encounter P53-dependent apoptotic deaths.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of antiproliferation and apoptosis activation contributed to the high efficacy of EM extracts. These findings not only proved the anticancer potential of EM but also provided further insights into the mechanisms of EM extracts.

Secondary Metabolites in the Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus: A Paradigm Shift

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic, polygenic and non-infectious group of diseases that occurs due to insulin resistance or its low production by the pancreas and is also associated with lifelong damage, dysfunction and collapse of various organs. Management of diabetes is quite complex having many bodily and emotional complications and warrants efficient measures for prevention and control of the same. As per the estimates of the current and future diabetes prevalence, around 425 million people were diabetic in 2017 which is anticipated to rise up to 629 million by 2045. Various studies have vaguely proven the fact that several vitamins, minerals, botanicals and secondary metabolites demonstrate hypoglycemic activity in vivo as well as in vitro. Flavonoids, anthocyanin, catechin, lipoic acid, coumarin metabolites, etc. derived from herbs were found to elicit a significant influence on diabetes. However, the prescription of herbal compounds depend on various factors, including the degree of diabetes progression, comorbidities, feasibility, economics as well as their ADR profile. For instance, cinnamon could be a more favorable choice for diabetic hypertensive patients. Diabecon®, Glyoherb® and Diabeta Plus® are some of the herbal products that had been launched in the market for the favorable or adjuvant therapy of diabetes. Moreover, Aloe vera leaf gel extract demonstrates significant activity in diabetes. The goal of this review was to inscribe various classes of secondary metabolites, in particular those obtained from plants, and their role in the treatment of DM. Recent advancements in recognizing the markers which can be employed for identifying altered metabolic pathways, biomarker discovery, limitations, metabolic markers of drug potency and off-label effects are also reviewed.

Diabetic complications and oxidative stress: The role of phenolic-rich extracts of saw palmetto and date palm seeds

Recently, we reported that the date palm seed (DP) and saw palmetto seed (SP) extracts possessed a great amount of phenolic contents with potent antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the role of DP and SP phenolic-rich extracts in modulating diabetic complications and oxidative stress in the STZ- diabetic rat. DP and SP extracts significantly inhibited both microbial and pancreatic α-amylases. The STZ-induced diabetic rat groups treated with DP and SP extracts exhibited reversed hyperglycemia (40% and 54%, p < .001-.01) and body weight (70%, p < .001) alteration close to normal. Moreover, DP and SP extracts modulated serious damages in the structures of the pancreas, kidney, and liver of diabetic rats. DP and SP extracts improved the decline of the activities of antioxidant enzymes: Catalase, glutathione-S-transferase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione peroxidase in liver, kidney, and pancreas of the diabetic rats. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Generally, date seed is a rich source of dietary fibers, polyphenols, and antioxidants and used in foods and pharmaceuticals. Our study reported that date palm seed (DP) and saw palmetto seed (SP) phenolic-rich extracts attenuated diabetes and its complications, probably tissue regeneration and normalizing the oxidative stress in the STZ-induced diabetic rat.

New phenolic acids from the whole herb of Elephantopus scaber Linn. and their anti-inflammatory activity

Two new phenolic acids, ethyl 3,3',4,4'-tetrahydroxy-δ-truxinate (1), 3-O-p-coumaroyl-4-O-caffeoyl quinic acid methyl ester (2), together with three known compounds (3-5) were isolated from the whole plant of Elephantopus scaber Linn. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated using detailed spectroscopic analysis. Compound 3 was obtained and given its NMR data for the first time. All isolates were evaluated for their anti-inflammatory activity via inhibiting the production of nitric oxide (NO) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cells, and 1, 4 and 5 showed a moderate inhibition with IC₅₀ values ranging from 11.85 to 20.62 μM.

Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) inhibitors as potential anti-diabetes agents: patent review (2015-2018)

Introduction: Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) inhibition has been recommended as a crucial strategy to enhance insulin sensitivity in various cells and this fact is supported by human genetic data. PTP1B inhibitors improve the sensitivity of the insulin receptor and have the ability to cure insulin resistance-related diseases. In the latter years, targeting PTP1B inhibitors is being considered an attractive target to treat T2DM and therefore libraries of PTP1B inhibitors are being suggested as potent antidiabetic drugs. Areas covered: This review provides an overview of published patents from January 2015 to December 2018. The review describes the effectiveness of potent PTP1B inhibitors as pharmaceutical agents to treat type 2 diabetes. Expert opinion: Enormous developments have been made in PTP1B drug discovery which describes progress in natural products, synthetic heterocyclic scaffolds or heterocyclic hybrid compounds. Various protocols are being followed to boost the pharmacological effects of PTP1B inhibitors. Moreover these new advancements suggest that it is possible to get small-molecule PTP1B inhibitors with the required potency and selectivity. Furthermore, future endevours via an integrated strategy of using medicinal chemistry and structural biology will hopefully result in potent and selective PTP1B inhibitors as well as safer and more effective orally available drugs.

Antidiabetic and antioxidative properties of the hydro-methanolic extract (60:40) of rhizomes of Curcuma amada roxb. (Zingiberaceae) in streptozotocin-induced diabetic male albino rat: a dose-dependent study through biochemical and genomic approaches

Background Curcuma amada is the most popular traditional medicine in India for the treatment of diabetes. The present study aimed to focus the antidiabetic and antioxidative activity of C. amada through the analysis of biochemical and genomic levels in a dose-dependent manner in streptozotocin-induced male adult rat. Method Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were administered orally with hydro-methanolic extract of C. amada at the dose of 10, 20, 40 and 80 mg/100 g body weight of rats for 28 days. The antidiabetic and antioxidative efficacy of the extract on glycemic, enzymatic, genomic and histological sensors along with toxicity study was investigated. Results The result showed a significant antidiabetic and antioxidative effect of the extract at dose-dependent manner. The significant recovery of fasting blood glucose level, serum insulin, activity of carbohydrate metabolic enzymes and antioxidative enzymes in extract-treated diabetic group as compared to untreated diabetic group were noted. After the extract treatment, the size of pancreatic islet and cell population densities were significantly increased. Activities of glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase and glutamate pyruvate transaminase in liver were significantly recovered along with the correction of Bax and Bcl-2 gene expression in hepatic tissue after the extract treatment in diabetic rats in respect to untreated diabetic group. Out of all the doses, the significant effects were noted at the dose of 20 mg/100 g body weight which has been considered as threshold dose in the concern. Conclusion It may be concluded that the significant and corrective effect in most of the sensors was noted at the minimum dose of 20 mg/100 g body weight of hydro-methanolic extract of C. amada without producing any toxicity.

Spiroindolone Analogues as Potential Hypoglycemic with Dual Inhibitory Activity on α-Amylase and α-Glucosidase

Inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase by specified synthetic compounds during the digestion of starch helps control post-prandial hyperglycemia and could represent a potential therapy for type II diabetes mellitus. A new series of spiroheterocyclic compounds bearing oxindole/benzofuran/pyrrolidine/thiazolidine motifs were synthesized via a 1,3-dipolar cyclo-addition reaction approach. The specific compounds were obtained by reactions of chalcones having a benzo[b]furan scaffold (compounds 2a-f), with a substituted isatin (compounds 3a-c) and heterocyclic amino acids (compounds 4a,b). The target spiroindolone analogues 5a-r were evaluated for their potential inhibitory activities against the enzymes α-amylase and α-glucosidase. Preliminary results indicated that some of the target compounds exhibit promising α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. Among the tested spiroindolone analogues, the cycloadduct 5r was found to be the most active (IC50 = 22.61 ± 0.54 μM and 14.05 ± 1.03 μM) as α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitors, with selectivity indexes of 0.62 and 1.60, respectively. Docking studies were carried out to confirm the binding interaction between the enzyme active site and the spiroindolone analogues.

The effects of deoxyelephantopin on the cardiac delayed rectifier potassium channel current (IKr) and human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) expression

Elephantopus scaber Linn and its major bioactive component, deoxyelephantopin are known for their medicinal properties and are often reported to have various cytotoxic and antitumor activities. This plant is widely used as folk medicine for a plethora of indications although its safety profile remains unknown. Human ether-a-go-go-related gene (hERG) encodes the cardiac I_Kr current which is a determinant of the duration of ventricular action potentials and QT interval. The hERG potassium channel is an important antitarget in cardiotoxicity evaluation. This study investigated the effects of deoxyelephantopin on the current, mRNA and protein expression of hERG channel in hERG-transfected HEK293 cells. The hERG tail currents following depolarization pulses were insignificantly affected by deoxyelephantopin in the transfected cell line. Current reduction was less than 40% as compared with baseline at the highest concentration of 50 μM. The results were consistent with the molecular docking simulation and hERG surface protein expression. Interestingly, it does not affect the hERG expression at both transcriptional and translational level at most concentrations, although higher concentration at 10 μM caused protein accumulation. In conclusion, deoxyelephantopin is unlikely a clinically significant hERG channel and I_kr blocker.

Anti-neuroinflammatory Activity of Elephantopus scaber L. via Activation of Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling and Inhibition of p38 MAPK Pathway in LPS-Induced Microglia BV-2 Cells

Elephantopus scaber L. (family: Asteraceae) has been traditionally utilized as a folkloric medicine and scientifically shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory activities in various in vivo inflammatory models. Given the lack of study on the effect of E. scaber in neuroinflammation, this study aimed to investigate the anti-neuroinflammatory effect and the underlying mechanisms of ethyl acetate fraction from the leaves of E. scaber (ESEAF) on the release of pro-inflammatory mediators in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced microglia cells (BV-2). Present findings showed that ESEAF markedly attenuated the translocation of NF-κB to nucleus concomitantly with the significant mitigation on the LPS-induced production of NO, iNOS, COX-2, PGE₂, IL-1β, and TNF-α. These inflammatory responses were reduced via the inhibition of p38. Besides, ESEAF was shown to possess antioxidant activities evident by the DPPH and SOD scavenging activities. The intracellular catalase enzyme activity was enhanced by ESEAF in the LPS-stimulated BV-2 cells. Furthermore, the formation of ROS induced by LPS in BV-2 cells was reduced upon the exposure to ESEAF. Intriguingly, the reduction of ROS was found in concerted with the activation of Nrf2 and HO-1. It is conceivable that the activation promotes the scavenging power of antioxidant enzymes as well as to ameliorate the inflammatory response in LPS-stimulated BV-2 cells. Finally, the safety profile analysis through oral administration of ESEAF at 2000 mg/kg did not result in any mortalities, adverse effects nor histopathologic abnormalities of organs in mice. Taken altogether, the cumulative findings suggested that ESEAF holds the potential to develop as nutraceutical for the intervention of neuroinflammatory disorders.

Cytotoxicity of the methanol extracts of Elephantopus mollis, Kalanchoe crenata and 4 other Cameroonian medicinal plants towards human carcinoma cells

BACKGROUND

Cancer still constitutes one of the major health concerns globally, causing serious threats on patients, their families, and the healthcare system.

METHODS

In this study, the cytotoxicity of the methanol extract of Elephantopus mollis whole plant (EMW), Enantia chlorantha bark (ECB), Kalanchoe crenata leaves (KCL), Lophira alata bark (LAB), Millettia macrophylla leaves (MML) and Phragmanthera capitata leaves (PCL) towards five human solid cancer cell lines and normal CRL2120 fibroblasts, was evaluated. Extracts were subjected to qualitative chemical screening of their secondary metabolite contents using standard methods. The cytotoxicity of samples was evaluated using neutral red uptake (NR) assay meanwhile caspase activation was detected by caspase-Glo assay. Flow cytometry was used to analyze the cell cycle distribution and the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) whilst spectrophotometry was used to measure the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS).

RESULTS

Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of polyphenols, triterpenes and sterols in all extracts. The IC₅₀ values of the best samples ranged from 3.29 μg/mL (towards DLD-1 colorectal adenocarcinoma cells) to 24.38 μg/mL (against small lung cancer A549 cells) for EMW, from 2.33 μg/mL (mesothelioma SPC212 cells) to 28.96 μg/mL (HepG2 hepatocarcinoma) for KCL, and from 0.04 μg/mL (towards SPC212 cells) to 0.55 μg/mL (towards A549 cells) for doxorubicin. EMW induced apoptosis in MCF-7 cells mediated by MMP loss and increased ROS production whilst KCL induced apoptosis via ROS production.

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidences of the cytotoxicity of the tested plant extract and highlights the good activity of Elephantopus mollis and Kalanchoe crenata. They deserve more exploration to develop novel cytotoxic drugs.

Elephantopus scaber induces apoptosis through ROS-dependent mitochondrial signaling pathway in HCT116 human colorectal carcinoma cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Elephantopus scaber also known as Elephant's foot (Asteraceae family) has a plethora of traditional applications including dysuria, diarrhea, dysentery, leukemia and cancer. This study aimed to investigate the apoptosis inducing effects of E. scaber and the underlying mechanisms in HCT116 colorectal cell line.

METHODS

The MTT assay was used to determine the IC50 values on cancer cell lines by the ethanol, hexane, ethyl acetate and water fractions. Apoptosis was detected by cell morphologic observation through Hoechst 33342/PI dual staining, phosphatidylserine externalization by Annexin V/PI staining and DNA fragmentation by TUNEL assay. The caspase activity, Bcl-2 family and p53 proteins were determined by flow cytometric analysis. The cleaved PARP protein expression was assessed by western blot analysis

RESULTS

The ethanol extract of E. scaber and its fractions significantly inhibited the growth of HCT116 and HT-29 cells and induced apoptosis. The E. scaber ethyl acetate fraction (ESEAF) was the most potent on HCT116 cell line with the IC50 value of 1.42 ± 0.10 µg/mL. The induction of apoptosis was marked by nuclear shrinkage accompanied with chromatin condensation, DNA fragmentation and phosphatidylserine externalization. The results showed that ESEAF-induced apoptosis was associated with an upregulation of proapoptotic Bax, elevation of Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, dissipation of mitochondrial membrane potential, activation of caspase-3 and cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). In addition, a compromised mitochondrial membrane potential and overproduction of ROS demonstrated the involvement of the mitochondrial signaling pathway. Mechanistic studies further revealed that ESEAF caused the augmentation of the intracellular ROS, subsequently incited the increase in p53 protein expression and led to oligomerization of Bax, depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential and caspases cascade (caspase-3/7 and -9) in a time-dependent manner. The attenuation of intracellular ROS level by N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) preserved the integrity of mitochondrial membrane and rescued the cells from cell death. Furthermore, caspase cascade results in the cleavage of PARP which ultimately activated DNA fragmentation and eventually apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, cumulative evidences in this study suggest that ESEAF induces apoptosis through ROS-dependent mitochondrial signaling pathway and holds potential therapeutic effect for colorectal cancer.

In vitro α-amylase inhibitory activity and in vivo hypoglycemic effect of methanol extract of Citrus macroptera Montr. fruit

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the therapeutic effects of methanol extract of Citrus macroptera Montr.fruit in α-amylase inhibitory activity (in vitro) and hypoglycemic activity in normal and glucose induced hyperglycemic rats (in vivo).

METHODS

Fruits of Citrus macroptera without rind was extracted with pure methanol following cold extraction and tested for presence of phytochemical constituents, α-amylase inhibitory activity, and hypoglycemic effect in normal rats and glucose induced hyperglycemic rats.

RESULTS

Presence of saponin, steroid and terpenoid were identified in the extract. The results showed that fruit extract had moderate α-amylase inhibitory activity [IC50 value=(3.638±0.190) mg/mL] as compared to acarbose. Moreover at 500 mg/kg and 1 000 mg/kg doses fruit extract significantly (P<0.05 and P<0.01 respectively) reduced fasting blood glucose level in normal rats as compared to glibenclamide (5 mg/kg). In oral glucose tolerance test, 500 mg/kg dose significantly reduced blood glucose level (P<0.05) at 2 h but 1 000 mg/kg dose significantly reduced blood glucose level at 2 h and 3 h (P<0.05 and P<0.01 respectively) whereas glibenclamide (5 mg/kg) significantly reduced glucose level at every hour after administration. Overall time effect is also considered extremely significant with F value=23.83 and P value=0.0001 in oral glucose tolerance test.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that the plant may be a potential source for the development of new oral hypoglycemic agent.

Paederia foetida Linn. leaf extract: an antihyperlipidemic, antihyperglycaemic and antioxidant activity

Background

The primary objective of the present investigation is to evaluate the antidiabetic, antihyperlidemic and antioxidant activity of the methanolic extract of the Paederia foetida Linn. (PF) leaf extract in the streptozotocin induced diabetic rats.

Methods

Single intraperitoneal injection (IP) of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg body weight) was used for induction of diabetes is swiss albino (wistar strain) rats. The induction of diabetes was confirmed after 3 days as noticing the increase in blood sugar level of tested rats. PF at a once a daily dose of 100 mg/kg, 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, p.o. along with glibenclamide 10 mg/kg, p.o. was also given for 28 days. On the 28^th day rats from all the groups fasted overnight fasted and the blood was collected from the puncturing the retro orbit of the eye under mild anesthetic condition. There collected blood sample was used to determine the antihyperlipidemic, hypoglycemic and antioxidant parameters.

Results

The oral acute toxicity studies did not show any toxic effect till the dose at 2000 mg/kg. While oral glucose tolerance test showed better glucose tolerance in tested rats. The statistical data indicated that the different dose of the PF significantly increased the body weight, hexokinase, plasma insulin, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxides. It also decreases the level of fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein cholesterol, malonaldehyde, glucose-6-phosphate, fructose-1-6-biphosphate and glycated hemoglobin in STZ induced diabetic rats. The histopathology of STZ induce diabetic rats, as expected the test dose of PF extract considerably modulates the pathological condition of various vital organ viz. heart, kidney, liver, pancreas as shown in the histopathology examinations.

Conclusions

Our investigation has clearly indicated that the leaf extract of Paederia foetida Linn. showed remarkable antihyperglycemic activity due to its possible systematic effect involving in the pancreatic and extra pancreatic mechanism. Forever, the antihyperlipidemic activity was exerted possible by lowering the higher level of lipid profile and decreasing the intercalated disc space in the heart. The antioxidant activity of extract was due to inhibition of lipid peroxidation and increasing the SOD, GPx and CAT. It was corroborate that the extract shown the Paederia foetida Linn leaves potential to be act as antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant properties.

Dose-response effects of Elephantopus scaber methanolic extract on N-nitrosodiethylamine-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

AIM

A decoction of Elephantopus scaber (Asteraceae) root is used to treat liver disorders in Indian and Chinese traditional medicine. The study was designed to examine the dose response effects of E. scaber methanolic extract on rats exposed to N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) induced hepatotoxicity (0.02% NDEA in water five days per week, per oral) in preventive and curative models.

METHODS

In preventive groups, NDEA was administered for six weeks. Daily doses of E. scaber methanolic extract (200 and 100 mg·kg-1) started one week before the onset of NDEA intoxication and continued for six weeks. In curative animals, NDEA was administered for six weeks followed by treatment with the methanolic n-hexane extract of E. scaber (200 and 100 mg·kg-1) for ten days.

RESULTS

E. scaber extract treatment significantly (P ≤ 0.05) reduced the levels of AST, ALT, and MDA in both experimental groups. The extract also enhanced the antioxidant enzyme and protein levels in rats intoxicated with NDEA. Treatment with the extract dose dependently protected the liver from NDEA-induced hepatotoxicity with normal hepatocytes and uniform sinusoids, but in some areas showed degenerating hepatic cells in both treatment groups.

CONCLUSION

E. scaber methanolic extract dose dependently prevented and reversed the hepatotoxicity induced by NDEA in both experimental models.

Enhanced glycemic control, pancreas protective, antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects by umbelliferon-α-D-glucopyranosyl-(2(I) → 1(II))-α-D-glucopyranoside in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of umbelliferon-α-D-glucopyranosyl-(2I → 1II)-α-D-glucopyranoside (UFD) from Aegle marmelos Corr. on serum glucose, lipid profile and free radical scavenging activity in normal and STZ (streptozotocin) induced diabetic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Diabetes was induced by single interperitoneal injecting of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg, i.p.) in the rats. All the rats were divided into following groups; I - nondiabeteic, II - nondiabetic + UFD (40 mg/kg, p.o.), III - diabetic control, IV - UFD (10 mg/kg, p.o.), V - UFD (20 mg/kg, p.o.), VI - UFD (40 mg/kg) and VII - glibenclamide (10 mg/kg, p.o.). Serum glucose level and body weight were determined periodically. Biochemical parameter, antioxidant enzyme and histopathology study were performed on the day 28. Oral glucose tolerance test study was performed to identify the glucose utilization capacity.

RESULTS

All the doses of UFD and glibenclamide decrease the level of serum glucose, glycated hemoglobin, glucose-6-phosphatase, fructose-1-6-biphosphate and increased the level of plasma insulin, hexokinase. The UFD doses also showed effects on antioxidant enzymes viz. superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase which were significantly increased and the level of malonaldehyde was markedly decreased. Histologically study, focal necrosis, deposition of fats, increased the size of the intercalated disc were observed in the diabetic rat liver, kidney, heart and pancreas but was less obvious in treated groups. The mechanism of action of the UFD emerges to be due to increase the activity of antioxidant enzyme and secretion of pancreatic insulin.

CONCLUSION

Reduction in the FBG (fasting blood glucose), glycated hemoglobin, glucose-6-phosphatase, fructose-1-6-biphosphate, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxides, cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, VLDL levels and improvement in the level of the plasma insulin, hexokinase, HDL was observed by the UFD treated rats. The result indicates that UFD has anti-diabetic activity along with anti hyperlipidemic and antioxidant efficacy and provides a scientific rationale to be used as an Anti-diabetic agent.

Antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant potential of methanol extract of Tectona grandis flowers in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats

OBJECTIVE

To investigate antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant activity of methanol extract of Tectona grandis (T. grandis) flowers (METGF) in streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetic rats to supports its traditional use.

METHODS

Acute toxicity study of METGF was carried out in rat to determine its dose for the antidiabetic study. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed to evaluate METGF effect on elevated blood glucose level. Diabetes was induced in rats by administration of STZ (60 mg/kg, ip.) and it was confirmed 72 h after induction. METGF was orally given to the diabetic rats up to 28 days and blood glucose level were estimated each week. On 28 day of the experiment, diabetic rats were sacrificed after the blood collection for the biochemical parameters analysis and liver, kidney was collected to determine antioxidants levels.

RESULTS

In acute toxicity, METGF did not show toxicity and death up to a dose 2 000 mg/kg in rats. Administration of METGF 100 and 200 mg/kg significantly (P<0.001) reduced blood glucose levels in OGTT and STZ-induced diabetic rats. Both doses of METGF treatment significantly (P<0.001, P<0.01 and P<0.05) increased body weight, serum insulin, haemoglobin (Hb) and total protein levels in diabetic rats. Also, MEGTF treatment reduced elevated glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and other biochemical parameters levels significantly (P<0.001) in diabetic rats. Altered lipid profiles and antioxidants levels were reversed to near normal in diabetic rats treated with METGF.

CONCLUSIONS

These results concluded that METGF possesses antidiabetic, antihyperglycemic and antioxidant activity which supports its traditional use.

Cytotoxic, apoptotic and anti-α-glucosidase activities of 3,4-di-O-caffeoyl quinic acid, an antioxidant isolated from the polyphenolic-rich extract of Elephantopus mollis Kunth

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The decoction of the whole plant of Elephantopus mollis Kunth. is traditionally consumed to treat various free radical-mediated diseases including cancer and diabetes.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was initiated to determine whether the most effective antioxidant compound isolated from the whole plant of Elephantopus mollis can also contribute to its claimed traditional values as anticancer and antidiabetes agents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An active antiradical phenolic compound (3,4-di-O-caffeoyl quinic acid) was isolated from the methanol extract (with the highest in polyphenolic content) and their antioxidant activities were compared using four different assays, that are DPPH, FRAP, metal chelating, and β-carotene bleaching tests. The compound was also evaluated for its cytotoxic activity, apoptotic induction and anti-glucosidase efficacies using methylene blue, DeadEnd™ assay and α-glucosidase assays, respectively.

RESULTS

The compound acted as a greater primary antioxidant than its methanol extract, by having higher ferric reducing activity (EC(50) 2.18±0.05 μg/ml), β-carotene bleaching activity (EC(50) 23.85±0.65 μg/ml) and DPPH scavenging activity (EC(50) 68.91±5.44μg/ml), whereas the methanol extract exhibited higher secondary antioxidant activity as a metal chelator with lower EC(50) value (49.39±3.68 μg/ml) than the compound. Cytotoxicity screening of this compound exhibited a remarkable dose-dependent inhibitory effect on NCI-H23 (human lung adenocarcinoma) cell lines (EC(50) 3.26±0.35 μg/ml) and was found to be apoptotic in nature based on a clear indication of DNA fragmentation. This compound also displayed a concentration-dependent α-glucosidase inhibition with EC(50) 241.80±14.29 μg/ml.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicate the major role of 3,4-di-O-caffeoyl quinic acid to antioxidant capacities of Elephantopus mollis extracts. The compound also exerted apoptosis-mediated cytotoxicity and α-glucosidase inhibitory effects and is thus a promising non toxic agent in treating cancer and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

GC-MS Analysis of Chemical Composition and Free Radical Scavenging Activity of Elaeagnus angustifolia Bark

Elaeagnus angustifolia L., a hardwood species in the family of Elaeagnaceae, has long been used as part of traditional medicines to treat various diseases. However, limited study is available on the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of E. angustifolia bark. In this study, we undertook a phytochemical investigation of E. angustifolia bark by gas chromatographic and mass spectrometric (GC-MS) analysis. And antioxidant activity of the crude and following soluble fractions of E. angustifolia bark was evaluated by DPPH free radical scavenging assay. GC-MS investigation of 95% EtOH crude extracts from E. angustifolia bark detected 40 compounds, and DPPH free radical scavenging assay indicated that the bark EtOAc and BuOH soluble fractions exhibited significant antioxidant potential (IC50 values of 12.1 and 12.4 µg/ml, respectively) comparing with α-tocopherol and BHT (IC50 values 12.3 and 13.8 µg/ml, respectively), which were used as positive controls.

Antidiabetic Potentiality of the Aqueous-Methanolic Extract of Seed of Swietenia mahagoni (L.) Jacq. in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Male Albino Rat: A Correlative and Evidence-Based Approach with Antioxidative and Antihyperlipidemic Activities

Antidiabetic, antioxidative, and antihyperlipidemic activities of aqueous-methanolic (2 : 3) extract of Swietenia mahagoni (L.) Jacq. (family Meliaceae) seed studied in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Feeding with seed extract (25 mg 0.25 mL distilled water(-1)100 gm b.w.(-1)rat(-1) day(-1)) for 21 days to diabetic rat lowered the blood glucose level as well as the glycogen level in liver. Moreover, activities of antioxidant enzymes like catalase, peroxidase, and levels of the products of free radicals like conjugated diene and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in liver, kidney, and skeletal muscles were corrected towards the control after this extract treatment in this model. Furthermore, the seed extract corrected the levels of serum urea, uric acid, creatinine, cholesterol, triglyceride, and lipoproteins towards the control level in this experimental diabetic model. The results indicated the potentiality of the extract of S. mahagoni seed for the correction of diabetes and its related complications like oxidative stress and hyperlipidemia. The extract may be a good candidate for developing a safety, tolerable, and promising neutraceutical treatment for the management of diabetes.