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Kumar P, Sharma R, Garg N. Withania somnifera - a magic plant targeting multiple pathways in cancer related inflammation. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 101:154137. [PMID: 35533610 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deregulated inflammatory responses are known to play a pivotal role in cancer initiation and progression. Tumor microenvironment is associated with the presence of a diverse array of inflammatory reactions, which further help tumor growth, metastasis and drug resistance. Withania somnifera is known to curb proliferation of cancer cells and lower inflammatory responses. PURPOSE In order to minimize the inflammation, cancer treatments often include immunomodulatory drugs. However, given the side effects of both of the cytotoxic cancer drugs and synthetic immunomodulatory agents, there is a need to develop novel anti-inflammatory agents for improved cancer therapy. A number of reports indicate that bioactive phytochemicals derived from W. somnifera exhibit anti-inflammatory capabilities in cancer. A deeper look into the underlying molecular mechanisms implicated in W. somnifera mediated anti inflammation is lacking, which is essential to fully understand the potential of this magical plant in cancer. Therefore, in the present review we are summarizing various reports, which describe mechanistic understanding of W. somnifera in cancer related inflammation. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY In order to gather information on the molecular pathways affected by W. somnifera in cancer related inflammation, 'PubMed' and 'Science Direct' databases were searched using keywords Withania, cancer inflammation, and Withaferin A. Selected literature was analyzed to cover the role of inflammation in cancer, usage and side effects of anti-inflammatory drugs, W. somnifera as an immunomodulatory agent in cancer, molecular pathways modulated by W. somnifera in various preclinical models, and clinical trials using W. somnifera as an anti-inflammatory agent. RESULTS Upon literature survey we found that both W. somnifera extracts and Withaferin-A, exhibit anti inflammatory activities in various preclinical cancer models. W. somnifera modulates a number of signaling pathways such as NF-kB, JAK-STAT and AP1 to reduce cancer related inflammation. Anti inflammatory properties of W. somnifera might be effective in the treatment of drug resistance in cancers. Based on its promising effects against cancer associated inflammation in preclinical studies, W. somnifera derived products are being tested in clinical trials. CONCLUSION Several preclinical studies demonstrated anti-inflammatory potential of W. somnifera in a variety of cancers. While a few clinical trials are investigating the role of W. somnifera in various diseases, focused studies on its role in cancer related inflammation are lacking. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory effects offer targeting of senescence associated secretory phenotype (SASP), which is speculated to play a critical role in chemoresistance. Apart from targeting cancer cell proliferation, anti-inflammatory effects of Withania provide double advantage in cancer management. Therefore, clinical trials to target cancer related inflammation using W. somnifera as a drug, should be performed to validate its advantages in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praveen Kumar
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005, India; Department of Rasa Shastra & Bhaishajya Kalpana, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005, India
| | - Rohit Sharma
- Department of Rasa Shastra & Bhaishajya Kalpana, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005, India
| | - Neha Garg
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005, India.
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Ayhanci A, Tanriverdi DT, Sahinturk V, Cengiz M, Appak-Baskoy S, Sahin IK. Protective Effects of Boron on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Bladder Damage and Oxidative Stress in Rats. Biol Trace Elem Res 2020; 197:184-191. [PMID: 31734911 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-019-01969-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to investigate protective effects of boron against cyclophosphamide-induced bladder toxicity that produces oxidative stress and leads to apoptosis of the cells. In total, 24 rats were divided into 4 equal groups. The control group received saline. The 2nd experimental group received 200 mg kg of cyclophosphamide i.p. on the 4th day while the 3rd group was given only boron (200 mg kg, i.p.) for 6 days. In the 4th group, boron was given for 6 days and cyclophosphamide (200 mg kg, i.p.) was administrated on the 4th day. Twenty-four hours after the last boron or cyclophosphamide administration, rats were sacrificed under anesthesia. Bladder tissues of rats were taken for histological and immunohistochemical (apoptotic markers such as caspase-3, bcl-2, and bax) and blood was taken for the biochemical (serum total thiol, serum natural thiol, serum thiol-disulfide) analysis. Transient epithelial thinning, edema, marked inflammatory reaction, and bleeding were observed in bladders of the group that received cyclophosphamide. Also, the activity of bax and caspase-3-positive cells increased while the number of bcl-2-positive cells decreased. In the same group, serum natural thiol and total thiol levels decreased while serum disulfide levels increased, which indicates oxidative stress. On the other hand, in the boron+cyclophosphamide group pretreatment with boron protected, the bladder tissue and the number of bcl-2-positive cells increased, and bax and caspase-3-positive cells decreased, showing antiapoptotic effects of boron against cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity. In parallel with the findings of this group, native thiol and total thiol levels increased and serum disulfide levels decreased pointing out to a decreased oxidative stress. Our results indicate that boron pretreatment significantly protects rat bladder against cyclophosphamide-induced bladder damage due to its antiapoptotic and antioxidant properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adnan Ayhanci
- Faculty of Arts and Science, Department of Biology, Eskişehir Osmangazi University, 26480, Eskişehir, Turkey.
| | - Dondu Tugce Tanriverdi
- Faculty of Arts and Science, Department of Biology, Eskişehir Osmangazi University, 26480, Eskişehir, Turkey
| | - Varol Sahinturk
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Eskişehir Osmangazi University, 26480, Eskişehir, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Cengiz
- Department of Elementary Education, Faculty of Education, Siirt University, Siirt, Turkey
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Effect of Withania somnifera on gentamicin induced renal lesions in rats. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE FARMACOGNOSIA-BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACOGNOSY 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bjp.2018.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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Hosseini A, Sahebkar A. Reversal of Doxorubicin-induced Cardiotoxicity by Using Phytotherapy: A Review. J Pharmacopuncture 2017; 20:243-256. [PMID: 30151294 PMCID: PMC6104714 DOI: 10.3831/kpi.2017.20.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Doxorubicin as a chemotherapeutic drug is widely used for the treatment of patients with cancer. However, clinical use of this drug is hampered by its cardiotoxicity, which is manifested as electrocardiographic abnormalities, arrhythmias, irreversible degenerative cardiomyopathy and congestive heart failure. The precise mechanisms underlying the cardiotoxicity of doxorubicin are not clear, but impairment of calcium homeostasis, generation of iron complexes, production of oxygen radicals, mitochondrial dysfunction and cell membrane damage have been suggested as potential etiologic factors. Compounds that can neutralize the toxic effect of doxorubicin on cardiac cells without reducing the drug's antitumor activity are needed. In recent years, numerous studies have shown that herbal medicines and bioactive phytochemicals can serve as effective add-on therapies to reduce the cardiotoxic effects of doxorubicin. This review describes different phytochemicals and herbal products that have been shown to counterbalance doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azar Hosseini
- Pharmacological Research Center of Medicinal Plants, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad,
Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad,
Iran
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad,
Iran
- School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad,
Iran
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Sheeja K, Kuttan G. Protective Effect of Andrographis paniculata and Andrographolide on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Urothelial Toxicity. Integr Cancer Ther 2016; 5:244-51. [PMID: 16880430 DOI: 10.1177/1534735406291984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The protective effect of Andrograhis paniculata and andrographolide (ANDLE) against cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced urothelial toxicity was investigated in this study. Pretreatment of Swiss albino mice with A paniculata extract (10 mg/dose/animal intraperitoneally [ip]) and ANDLE (500 μg/dose/animal ip) could significantly reduce CTX (1.5 nmol/kg body weight)-induced urothelial toxicity. Morphological and histopathological analysis of urinary bladder of CTX-treated mice showed severe inflammation and dark coloration, whereas A paniculata and ANDLE-treated mice showed almost normal bladder morphology. Elevation of urinary protein level (7.33±0.3 g/L) by CTX administration was reduced by A paniculata (3.78 ± 0.4 g/L) and ANDLE treatment (4.19 ± 0.1 g/L). Urinary urea N2level, which was elevated after 48 hours of CTX administration (24.25 ± 0.2 g/L) was found to be reduced by the treatment with A paniculata (14.19 ± 0.5 g/L) and ANDLE (15.79 ± 0.4 g/L). A decreased level of reduced glutahione (GSH) content in liver (2.81 ± 0.1 nmol/mg protein) and bladder (1.20 ± 0.2 nmol/mg protein) after CTX administration was also increased by the treatment with A paniculata (liver: 5.78 ± 0.3 nmol/mg protein; bladder: 2.96 ± 0.2 nmol/mg protein) and ANDLE (liver: 5.14 ± 0.3 nmol/mg protein; bladder: 2.84 ± 0.2 nmol/mg protein). Production of the proinflammatory cytokine, tumor necrosis factor-α, which was elevated during CTX administration, was found to be inhibited by A paniculata and ANDLE treatment. The lowered level of interleukin-2 and interferon-γ during CTX treatment was elevated by the administration of A paniculata and ANDLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Sheeja
- Amala Cancer Research Centre, Amala Nagar, Thrissur, Kerala, India
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Wankhede S, Langade D, Joshi K, Sinha SR, Bhattacharyya S. Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2015; 12:43. [PMID: 26609282 PMCID: PMC4658772 DOI: 10.1186/s12970-015-0104-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) is a prominent herb in Ayurveda. This study was conducted to examine the possible effects of ashwagandha root extract consumption on muscle mass and strength in healthy young men engaged in resistance training. METHODS In this 8-week, randomized, prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study, 57 young male subjects (18-50 years old) with little experience in resistance training were randomized into treatment (29 subjects) and placebo (28 subjects) groups. Subjects in the treatment group consumed 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract twice daily, while the control group consumed starch placebos. Following baseline measurements, both groups of subjects underwent resistance training for 8 weeks and measurements were repeated at the end of week 8. The primary efficacy measure was muscle strength. The secondary efficacy measures were muscle size, body composition, serum testosterone levels and muscle recovery. Muscle strength was evaluated using the 1-RM load for the bench press and leg extension exercises. Muscle recovery was evaluated by using serum creatine kinase level as a marker of muscle injury from the effects of exercise. RESULTS Compared to the placebo subjects, the group treated with ashwagandha had significantly greater increases in muscle strength on the bench-press exercise (Placebo: 26.4 kg, 95% CI, 19.5, 33.3 vs. Ashwagandha: 46.0 kg, 95% CI 36.6, 55.5; p = 0.001) and the leg-extension exercise (Placebo: 9.8 kg, 95% CI, 7.2,12.3 vs. Ashwagandha: 14.5 kg, 95 % CI, 10.8,18.2; p = 0.04), and significantly greater muscle size increase at the arms (Placebo: 5.3 cm(2), 95% CI, 3.3,7.2 vs. Ashwagandha: 8.6 cm(2), 95% CI, 6.9,10.8; p = 0.01) and chest (Placebo: 1.4 cm, 95% CI, 0.8, 2.0 vs. Ashwagandha: 3.3 cm, 95% CI, 2.6, 4.1; p < 0.001). Compared to the placebo subjects, the subjects receiving ashwagandha also had significantly greater reduction of exercise-induced muscle damage as indicated by the stabilization of serum creatine kinase (Placebo: 1307.5 U/L, 95% CI, 1202.8, 1412.1, vs. Ashwagandha: 1462.6 U/L, 95% CI, 1366.2, 1559.1; p = 0.03), significantly greater increase in testosterone level (Placebo: 18.0 ng/dL, 95% CI, -15.8, 51.8 vs. Ashwagandha: 96.2 ng/dL, 95% CI, 54.7, 137.5; p = 0.004), and a significantly greater decrease in body fat percentage (Placebo: 1.5%, 95% CI, 0.4%, 2.6% vs. Ashwagandha: 3.5%, 95% CI, 2.0%, 4.9%; p = 0.03). CONCLUSION This study reports that ashwagandha supplementation is associated with significant increases in muscle mass and strength and suggests that ashwagandha supplementation may be useful in conjunction with a resistance training program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachin Wankhede
- />Sports Medicine, SrimatiKashibaiNavale Medical College, Pune, India
| | - Deepak Langade
- />Department of Pharmacology, BVDU Dental College & Hospital, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Kedar Joshi
- />Department of Pharmacology, BharatiVidyapeeth Medical College & Hospital, Sangli, India
| | - Shymal R. Sinha
- />Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Grant Government Medical College, SirJamshedjeeJeejeebhoy Group of Hospitals, Mumbai, India
| | - Sauvik Bhattacharyya
- />Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, NSHM Knowledge Campus, 124 B.L. Saha Road, Kolkata, 700053 India
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Murali VP, Kuttan G. Curculigo orchioides Gaertn Effectively Ameliorates the Uro- and Nephrotoxicities Induced by Cyclophosphamide Administration in Experimental Animals. Integr Cancer Ther 2015; 15:205-15. [PMID: 26424815 DOI: 10.1177/1534735415607319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Curculigo orchioides Gaertn is an ancient medicinal plant (Family: Amaryllidaceae), well known for its immunomodulatory and rejuvenating effects. Cyclophosphamide (CPA) is an alkylating agent widely used for treating a variety of human malignancies, but associated with different toxicities too. Our previous reports regarding the hemoprotective and hepatoprotective effects of the plant against CPA toxicities provide the background for the present study, which is designed to analyze the ameliorative effect of the methanolic extract of C orchioides on the urotoxicity and nephrotoxicity induced by CPA. Methods CPA was administered to male Swiss albino mice at a single dose of 1.5 mmol/kg body weight to induce urotoxicity after 5 days of prophylactic treatment with C orchioides extract (20 mg/kg body weight). Mesna (2-mercaptoethanesulfonate) was used as a control drug. Serum, tissue, and urine levels of kidney function markers and antioxidant levels were checked along with the serum cytokine levels. Results The plant extract was found to be effective in ameliorating the urotoxic and nephrotoxic side effects of CPA. Upregulation of serum interferon-γ and interleukin-2 levels were observed with C orchioides treatment, which was decreased by CPA administration. Besides these, serum tumor necrosis factor-α level was also downregulated by C orchioides treatment. Conclusion Curculigo orchioides was found to be effective against the CPA-induced bladder and renal toxicities by its antioxidant capability and also by regulating the pro-inflammatory cytokine levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishnu Priya Murali
- Amala Cancer Research Centre, Affiliated to the University of Calicut, Thrissur, Kerala, India
| | - Girija Kuttan
- Amala Cancer Research Centre, Affiliated to the University of Calicut, Thrissur, Kerala, India
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Choi JI, Srinivasan P, Park H. Decontamination of W
ithania somnifera
by Gamma Irradiation and its Effect on Antioxidant Activities. J FOOD QUALITY 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/jfq.12134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jong-Il Choi
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering; Chonnam National University; Gwangju 500-757 South Korea
| | - Periasamy Srinivasan
- Advanced Radiation Technology Institute; Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute; Jeongeup South Korea
| | - Hyun Park
- Korea Polar Research Institute; Incheon South Korea
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Shirani K, Hassani FV, Razavi-Azarkhiavi K, Heidari S, Zanjani BR, Karimi G. Phytotrapy of cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2015; 39:1262-1275. [PMID: 26026872 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2015.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2015] [Revised: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 04/18/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a cytotoxic drug that can suppress both humoral and cellular immunity. Combining traditional medicinal herbs and chemotherapy drugs are used to improve immunity and quality of life performance status. In this paper, the effects of plant extracts, active components and their derivatives on immunosuppression of CP are discussed. Appropriate keywords were used to search through PubMed, Google Scholar, and Sciverse. All relevant results published from 1990 to date were chosen for final review. Over 50 references were found in which plant extracts, active components and their derivatives have been tested for their immune protective effects against CP-induced immune toxicity. Although there are several plants shown to be effective in animal models, no study was carried out on human subjects. According to the results; we can claim that plants and their active ingredients are good candidates for alternative adjuvant chemotherapy in reducing the immunotoxicity of CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kobra Shirani
- Department of Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Faezeh Vahdati Hassani
- Department of Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Kamal Razavi-Azarkhiavi
- Department of Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Somayeh Heidari
- Department of Pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Bamdad Riahi Zanjani
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Karimi
- Medical Toxicology Research Center and Pharmacy School, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Bhatia K, Rahman S, Ali M, Raisuddin S. In vitroantioxidant activity ofJuglans regiaL. bark extract and its protective effect on cyclophosphamide-induced urotoxicity in mice. Redox Rep 2013; 11:273-9. [PMID: 17207309 DOI: 10.1179/135100006x155030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Walnut (Juglans regia L.) bark has been claimed to possess anti-inflammatory, blood purifying, anticancer, depurative, diuretic and laxative activities. It contains several therapeutically active constituents, especially polyphenols. We studied the antioxidant potential of aqueous extract of walnut bark and its modulatory effect on cyclophosphamide (CP)-induced urotoxicity in Swiss albino male mice. Free radical-scavenging activity of extract was assessed in four in vitro assays. The phenolic and flavonolic contents of the extract were also measured. Walnut bark extract treatment (150 mg/kg p.o. x 10 days) resulted in protective restoration of decreased antioxidants in CP-treated (18 mg/kg i.p. x 10 days) animals. CP treatment caused decreases in the activities of catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GP), glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) and in the glutathione (GSH) content in urinary bladder and a significant concomitant increase in lipid peroxidation (LPO). Administration of extract restored all the antioxidants significantly and lowered the elevated LPO in the bladder. A correlation between radical scavenging capacities of the extract with phenolic content was observed thus justifying its antioxidant potential against oxidative stress-mediated urotoxicity in mice. Walnut is reported to possess antiproliferative activity. Its protective effect on CP-induced toxicity in bladder is a promising activity, which warrants possible clinical investigations on this medicinal plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanchan Bhatia
- Department of Medical Elementology and Toxicology, Jamia Hamdard (Hamdard University), New Delhi, India
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Jeyanthi T, Subramanian P, Sivaperumal R, Kumaravel P. Influence ofWithania somniferaon 24 h oscillations of biomarkers in gentamicin induced nephrotoxicity. BIOL RHYTHM RES 2013. [DOI: 10.1080/09291016.2013.805914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Hamsa TP, Kuttan G. Tinospora cordifolia ameliorates urotoxic effect of cyclophosphamide by modulating GSH and cytokine levels. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 64:307-14. [PMID: 20932729 DOI: 10.1016/j.etp.2010.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2009] [Revised: 07/01/2010] [Accepted: 09/10/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a commonly used anti-cancer drug which causes toxicity by its reactive metabolites. In this study we investigated the effect of Tinospora cordifolia on urotoxicity induced by acute dose of CP using Swiss albino mice model. Administration of an alcoholic extract of the plant T. cordifolia (Family: Menispermaceae) (200 mg/kg i.p.) for 5 days reduced CP (1.5 mmol/kg body wt. i.p.) induced urotoxicity as evident from the morphological analysis of bladder, decreased the relative bladder and liver weights and also decreased level of urea nitrogen and protein in blood as well as urine. Severely inflamed and dark coloured urinary bladders of the CP alone treated animals were found to be normalized by the treatment of T. cordifolia. GSH content, which was drastically reduced by CP administration in both bladder and liver was enhanced by treatment with T. cordifolia. Histopathological analysis of the bladder of CP alone-treated group showed severe necrotic damage where as the T. cordifolia-treated group showed normal bladder architecture. The lowered levels of cytokines IFN-γ, IL-2, after CP treatment were found to be increased in treated animals. At the same time the level of pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α, which was elevated during CP administration, was significantly reduced by extract administration. This study clearly demonstrates uroprotective role of T. cordifolia from CP induced toxicities by modulating GSH and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- T P Hamsa
- Amala Cancer Research Centre, Amala Nagar, Thrissur 680555, Kerala, India
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Motawi TM, Sadik NA, Refaat A. Cytoprotective effects of DL-alpha-lipoic acid or squalene on cyclophosphamide-induced oxidative injury: An experimental study on rat myocardium, testicles and urinary bladder. Food Chem Toxicol 2010; 48:2326-36. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2010.05.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2010] [Revised: 05/09/2010] [Accepted: 05/24/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Pratheeshkumar P, Kuttan G. Modulation of immune response byVernonia cinereaL. inhibits the proinflammatory cytokine profile, iNOS, and COX-2 expression in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2010; 33:73-83. [DOI: 10.3109/08923971003745977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Ahmad R, Javed S, Bhandari U. Antiapoptotic potential of herbal drugs in cardiovascular disorders: an overview. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2010; 48:358-374. [PMID: 20645713 DOI: 10.3109/13880200903133852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Cardiomyocyte apoptosis has been reported in a number of cardiovascular disorders, including myocardial infarction, ischemia-reperfusion, end-stage heart failure, arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia, and adriamycin-induced cardiomyopathy. Prevention of myocyte apoptosis has emerged as a potential new target in a multimodel therapeutic approach to cardiac disease. Herbal therapy may be an alternative strategy for the prevention and treatment of heart disease. The present review summarizes the list of plants/herbal formulations studied for their antiapoptotic activity in cardiovascular disorders. However, despite extensive positive research data from experimental studies for herbal drugs in cardiovascular disorders, and the anecdotal clinical experience of many practitioners and patients, its potential in the field of cardiac apoptosis remains largely untapped, and large scale clinical trials are needed to explore the potential of herbal medicines as a new treatment regime for targeting cardiovascular apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahila Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hamdard University, New Delhi, India
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Ayhanci A, Yaman S, Sahinturk V, Uyar R, Bayramoglu G, Senturk H, Altuner Y, Appak S, Gunes S. Protective effect of seleno-L-methionine on cyclophosphamide-induced urinary bladder toxicity in rats. Biol Trace Elem Res 2010; 134:98-108. [PMID: 19629405 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-009-8458-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2009] [Accepted: 07/03/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a widely used antineoplastic drug, which could cause toxicity of the normal cells due to its toxic metabolites. Its urotoxicity may cause dose-limiting side effects like hemorrhagic cystitis. Overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during inflammation is one of the reasons of the urothelial injury. Selenoproteins play crucial roles in regulating ROS and redox status in nearly all tissues; therefore, in this study, the urotoxicity of CP and the possible protective effects of seleno-L: -methionine (SLM) on urinary bladder of rats were investigated. Intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of 50, 100, or 150 mg/kg CP induced cystitis, in a dose-dependent manner, as manifested by marked congestion, edema and extravasation in rat urinary bladder, a marked desquamative damage to the urothelium, severe inflammation in the lamina propria, focal erosions, and polymorphonuclear (PMN) leukocytes associated with occasional lymphocyte infiltration determined by macroscopic and histopathological examination. In rat urinary bladder tissue, a significant decrease in the endogenous antioxidant compound glutathione, and elevation of lipid peroxidation were also noted. Pretreatment with SLM (0.5 or 1 mg/kg) produced a significant decrease in the bladder edema and caused a marked decrease in vascular congestion and hemorrhage and a profound improvement in the histological structure. Moreover, SLM pretreatment decreased lipid peroxide significantly in urinary bladder tissue, and glutathione content was greatly restored. These results suggest that SLM offers protective effects against CP-induced urinary bladder toxicity and could be used as a protective agent against the drug toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adnan Ayhanci
- Faculty of Arts and Science, Department of Biology, Meselik Campus, Izmir Osmangazi University, F5 26480, Eskisehir, Turkey.
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Jeyanthi T, Subramanian P. Nephroprotective Effect ofWithania somnifera:A Dose-Dependent Study. Ren Fail 2009; 31:814-21. [DOI: 10.3109/08860220903150320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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18
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Manu KA, Kuttan G. Immunomodulatory activities of Punarnavine, an alkaloid fromBoerhaavia diffusa. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2009; 31:377-87. [DOI: 10.1080/08923970802702036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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19
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Sun HX, Peng XY. Protective effect of triterpenoid fractions from the rhizomes of Astilbe chinensis on cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity in tumor-bearing mice. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2008; 119:312-317. [PMID: 18692125 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2008.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2008] [Revised: 07/13/2008] [Accepted: 07/16/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
AIM OF THE STUDY The objectives of this study were to investigate the protective effect of the triterpenoid fractions from the rhizomes of Astilbe chinensis (Saxifragaceae) (ATF) on cyclophosphamide (CTX)-induced toxicity in tumor-bearing mice. MATERIALS AND METHODS The mice inoculated with mouse sarcoma S180 cells were treated with saline or CTX alone, or co-treated with CTX and ATF. The blood, femur bone, and serum samples were collected for determination of the haematological and biochemical parameters and splenocytes were for assay of proliferation, the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, and production of interleukin-2 (IL-2). RESULTS ATF significantly increased the peripheral white blood cell (WBC) count and bone marrow cellularity (BMC) in CTX-treated S180-bearing mice. Increase of aspartate transanimase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine in the serum of CTX-treated mice was significantly reversed by ATF. The lowered levels of splenocytes proliferation, NK cells activity, and IL-2 production from splenocytes in S180-bearing mice after CTX treatment were also increased by ATF administration. CONCLUSIONS ATF provides significant protection against CTX-induced hematotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and immunotoxicity, and might be helpful in abrogation of CTX-induced toxicity during the chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Xiang Sun
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Kaixuan Road 268, Hangzhou 310029, Zhejiang, China.
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20
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Hamza A, Amin A, Daoud S. The protective effect of a purified extract of Withania somnifera against doxorubicin-induced cardiac toxicity in rats. Cell Biol Toxicol 2007; 24:63-73. [PMID: 17520333 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-007-9016-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2006] [Accepted: 04/02/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The therapeutic value of doxorubicin as an effective antineoplastic agent is limited by its cardiotoxic side-effects. The administration of doxorubicin (10 mg/kg) to male Wistar rats induced necrosis and apoptosis in heart tissues. It also caused oxidative stress damage as evidenced by the elevation of malondialdehyde and protein carbonyl levels and catalase activity, accompanied by the concurrent depletion of total antioxidant capacity and of superoxide dismutase level in cardiac tissues. The doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity and oxidative stress damage were also accompanied by increases of myeloperoxidase activity, total calcium content, and the expression of Bcl-2 protein in heart tissues. Most of these doxorubicin-induced biochemical and histological alterations were effectively attenuated by prior administration of purified standardized extract (1.5% withanolides; manufactured by Idea Sphere Inc., American Fork, UT, USA) of Withania somnifera (300 mg/kg). Thus, Withania may play a role in the protection against cardiotoxicity and thus might be a useful adjuvant therapy where doxorubicin is the cancer-treating drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Hamza
- Biology Department, College of Science, UAE University, Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates
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21
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Tharakan ST, Kuttan G, Kuttan R, Kesavan M, Austin S, Rajagopalan K. Effect of AC II, an herbal formulation in cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression in BALB/c mice--Implication in HIV treatment. Immunol Invest 2007; 36:147-57. [PMID: 17365016 DOI: 10.1080/08820130600941153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Effect of AC II, herbal drug formulation in reducing immunosuppression caused by administration of cyclophosphamide was studied. Mice were injected cyclophosphamide (CTX) 50 mg/kg b.wt. for 14 days with or without the drug and total WBC, bone marrow cellularity and alpha-esterase positive cells were determined. On day 15, total WBC count in cyclophosphamide treated mice was 1500 +/- 420 cells/mm3, while in AC II-treated mice it was 7658 +/- 376 cells/mm3. On day 16, administration of cyclophosphamide reduced bone marrow cellularity to 3.42 +/- 0.38 x 10(6) cells/femur from the normal value of 13.83 +/- 0.96 x 10(6) cells/femur. In AC II treated group bone marrow cellularity was increased to 8.05 +/- 0.7 x 10(6) cells/femur. The number of alpha-esterase positive cells was found to be reduced to 177 +/- 25 cells per 4000 cells in CTX treated groups. But in AC II-treated group the number of alpha-esterase positive cells were raised to 843 +/- 86 cells per 4000 cells, which was closer to that of normal (710 +/- 49 cells per 4000 cells). Results indicate the usefulness of AC II to combat immunosuppression induced by chemical and biological agents.
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Bhatia K, Kaur M, Atif F, Ali M, Rehman H, Rahman S, Raisuddin S. Aqueous extract of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. ameliorates additive urotoxicity of buthionine sulfoximine and cyclophosphamide in mice. Food Chem Toxicol 2006; 44:1744-50. [PMID: 16828947 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2006.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2005] [Revised: 05/04/2006] [Accepted: 05/21/2006] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a commonly used anti-cancer drug which causes toxicity by its reactive metabolites such as acrolein and phosphoramide mustard. In the present study modulation of toxicity caused by concomitant exposure to CP and l-buthionine-SR-sulfoximine (BSO) by fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) extract was evaluated by measuring lipid peroxidation (LPO) and anti-oxidants in urinary bladder in mice. Fenugreek, a common dietary and medicinal herb, showed protective effect not only on LPO but also on the enzymatic anti-oxidants. CP-treated animals exhibited a significant decrease in the activities of glutathione S-transferase (GST), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione peroxidase (GP) and catalase (CAT) when compared to the controls. Level of reduced glutathione (GSH) was also reduced with an increase in LPO in CP-treated animals. BSO treatment depicted an additive toxic effect in CP-treated animals. Pre-treatment of herbal extract restored activities of all the enzymes and thus showed an overall protective effect on additive effect of CP and BSO. Restoration of GSH by extract treatment may play an important role in reversing CP-induced apoptosis and free radical-mediated LPO in urinary bladder. Fenugreek, known for its hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activity, may be a promising protective medicinal herb for consideration in complementary therapy in cancer patients under chemotherapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Bhatia
- Department of Medical Elementology and Toxicology, Jamia Hamdard, Hamdard University, New Delhi 110 062, India
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Abd-Allah ARA, Gado AM, Al-Majed AA, Al-Yahya AA, Al-Shabanah OA. Protective effect of taurine against cyclophosphamide-induced urinary bladder toxicity in rats. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2005; 32:167-72. [PMID: 15743398 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1681.2004.04129.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
1. In the present study, the effect of taurine, on cyclophosphamide (CP)-induced urinary bladder toxicity was investigated. 2. Administration of a single dose of CP (150 mg/kg, i.p.) induced cystitis, as manifested by marked congestion, oedema and extravasation in rat urinary bladder, as well as a marked desquamative damage to the urothium, severe inflammation in the lamina propria, focal erosions and polymorphonuclear leucocytes associated with occasional lymphocyte infiltration as determined by macroscopic and histopathological examination. 3. A significant decrease in the endogenous anti-oxidant compound glutathione and elevation of lipid peroxidation also resulted in rat urinary bladder tissue. 4. Cyclophosphamide-induced cystitis markedly affected the contractile function of the urinary bladder, as revealed by a significant inhibition of tissue responsiveness to acetylcholine (ACh) at different molar concentrations in vitro. 5. Conversely, pretreatment with taurine (1% in drinking water to reach a dose of 1 g/kg per day) for 7 days before and 1 day after CP injection produced a significant decrease in urinary bladder weight (oedema) and a marked decrease in vascular congestion and haemorrhage, as well as a profound improvement in histological structure. Moreover, taurine pretreatment resulted in a significant decrease in lipid peroxide in urinary bladder tissue and glutathione content was greatly restored. 6. Urinary bladder rings isolated from rats treated concurrently with taurine and CP showed a significant increase in their responsiveness to ACh compared with the CP group. 7. These results suggest that taurine offers a protective effect against CP-induced urinary bladder toxicity and may, therefore, decrease the limitation on its clinical application. These results merit extension and further investigation of the impact of taurine on CP antitumour activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adel R A Abd-Allah
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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Manesh C, Kuttan G. Effect of naturally occurring isothiocyanates in the inhibition of cyclophosphamide-induced urotoxicity. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2005; 12:487-93. [PMID: 16008126 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2003.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide-induced urotoxiciy was reduced in Swiss albino mice by the treatment of naturally occurring isothiocyanates such as AITC or PITC (25 microg/dose/animal, i.p.) for 5 days along with CTX (1.5 mmol/kg body wt.; i.p.). Severely inflamed and dark coloured urinary bladders of the CTX alone treated animals were found to be normalized on morphological analysis by the treatment of AITC or PITC. Urine protein levels were reduced by the treatment with AITC (6.2 +/- 0.37 g/l) and PITC (6.56 +/- 1.56 g/l), which was elevated by CTX administration (8.66 +/- 0.47 g/l). Urine urea N2 that was enhanced significantly by CTX administration (26.87 +/- 1.86 g/l) was reduced by treatment with both AITC (17.38 +/- 0.06 g/l) and PITC (15.85 +/- 1.56 g/l). GSH content, which was drastically reduced by CTX administration in both bladder (0.87 +/- 0.1 nmol/mg protein) and liver (2.47 +/- 0.6 nmol/mg protein) was enhanced by treatment with AITC and PITC both in bladder (AITC- 3.65 +/- 0.18 nmol/mg protein; PITC- 2.8 +/- 0.15 nmol/mg protein) and in liver (AITC- 4.10 +/- 0.81 nmol/mg protein; PITC- 4.70 +/- 0.44 nmol/mg protein). Histopathology of the bladders of CTX alone treated group showed severe necrosis of the tissue whereas AITC and PITC treated group showed normal bladder pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Manesh
- Amala Cancer Research Centre, Amala Nagar, Thrissur 680553, Kerala, India
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Owais M, Sharad KS, Shehbaz A, Saleemuddin M. Antibacterial efficacy of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) an indigenous medicinal plant against experimental murine salmonellosis. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2005; 12:229-35. [PMID: 15830846 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2003.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, we evaluated the antibacterial activity of ashwagandha [Withania somnifera L. Dunal (Solanaceae; root and leaves)], an Indian traditional medicinal plant against pathogenic bacteria. Both aqueous as well as alcoholic extracts of the plant (root as well as leaves) were found to possess strong antibacterial activity against a range of bacteria, as revealed by in vitro Agar Well Diffusion Method. The methanolic extract was further subfractionated using various solvents and the butanolic sub-fraction was found to possess maximum inhibitory activity against a spectrum of bacteria including Salmonella typhimurium. Moreover, in contrast to the synthetic antibiotic (viz. chloramphenicol), these extracts did not induce lysis on incubation with human erythrocytes, advocating their safety to the living cells. Finally, the antibacterial efficacy of the extracts isolated from plant (both root and leaves) was determined against experimental salmonellosis in Balb/C mice. Oral administration of the aqueous extracts successfully obliterated salmonella infection in Balb/C mice as revealed by increased survival rate as well as less bacterial load in various vital organs of the treated animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Owais
- Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India.
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26
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Raphael TJ, Kuttan G. Immunomodulatory activity of naturally occurring monoterpenes carvone, limonene, and perillic acid. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2003; 25:285-94. [PMID: 12784919 DOI: 10.1081/iph-120020476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The immunomodulatory activity of some naturally occurring monoterpenes were studied in Balb/c mice. Administration of various monoterpenes such as carvone (100 micromoles/Kg body wt/dose/animal), limonene (100 micromoles/Kg body wt/dose/animal) and perillic acid (50 micromoles/Kg body wt/dose/animal) were found to increase the total white blood cells (WBC) count in Balb/c mice. The maximum total WBC count in carvone treated animals was observed on the 12th day (16,560 cells/cmm) while in limonene (13,783 cells/cmm) and perillic acid (14,437 cells/cmm) treated animals the maximum count was observed on the 9th day after the drug treatment. Administration of terpenoids increased the total antibody production, antibody producing cells in spleen, bone marrow cellularity and alpha-esterase positive cells significantly compared to the normal animals indicating its potentiating effect on the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- T J Raphael
- Amala Cancer Research Centre, Amalanagar, Thrissur, Kerala, India
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Iuvone T, Esposito G, Capasso F, Izzo AA. Induction of nitric oxide synthase expression by Withania somnifera in macrophages. Life Sci 2003; 72:1617-25. [PMID: 12551750 DOI: 10.1016/s0024-3205(02)02472-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Withania somnifera (ashwagandha, Indian ginseng) is an immunostimulant herbal medicine used to improve overall health and prevent diseases, particularly in the elderly. However, the mechanisms underlying its immunostimulant effect is poorly understood. To elucidate the mechanism of Withania somnifera, we investigated the effect of a methanolic extract from the root of Withania somnifera (WS) on nitric oxide (NO) production in J774 macrophages. We found that WS (1-256 microg/ml) produced a significant and concentration-dependent increase in NO production, an effect which was abolished by N(G)nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 3-300 microM), a non-selective inhibitor of NO synthase (NOS), dexamethasone (10 microM), an inhibitor of protein synthesis and N(alpha-p)-tosyl-L-lysine chloromethyl ketone (TLCK, 0.01-10 microM), an inhibitor of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) activation. Dexamethasone did not have any effect on NO production once NOS had been induced (i.e. 12 h after WS). Moreover, western blot analysis showed that WS increased, in a concentration-dependent fashion, inducible NOS protein expression. These results demonstrate that WS may induce the synthesis of inducible NOS expression likely by acting at transcriptional level. The increased NO production by macrophages could account, at least in part, for the immunostimulant properties of Withania somnifera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Iuvone
- Department of Experimental Pharmacology, University of Naples Federico II, via D. Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
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Vayalil PK, Kuttan G, Kuttan R. Protective effects of Rasayanas on cyclophosphamide- and radiation-induced damage. J Altern Complement Med 2002; 8:787-96. [PMID: 12614532 DOI: 10.1089/10755530260511801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Rasayanas are a group of herbal drug preparations widely used in Ayurveda to improve the general health of the body. In mice, Rasayanas are potent myeloprotective agents against chemotherapeutic agents and radiation. Rasayanas are also effective myeloprotectors in patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. In this study, we provide further evidence to support the chemoprotective and radioprotective efficacy of four Rasayanas in mice. Rasayanas were found to reduce the loss of body weight and organ weight induced by cyclophosphamide and radiation significantly. Rasayanas were also found to protect tissue from cytotoxic injury associated with reduced serum and liver lipid peroxides, alkaline phosphatase, and glutamate pyruvate transaminase in cyclophosphamide- and radiation-treated animals. These results suggest the potential chemoprotective and radioprotective effects of Rasayanas, which require further study to explore their complete usefulness in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praveen K Vayalil
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294-0019, USA.
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