Medicinal plants of India with anti-diabetic potential

An alkaloid enriched fraction from Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng. Leaves ameliorate HFD-induced obesity and metabolic complexities in C57BL/6J mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Murraya koenigii commonly known as curry leaf, is traditionally used in India to manage various ailments including diabetes mellitus. Curry leaves are well documented in Indian Ayurvedic system of medicine for beneficial effects in skin eruptions, dysentery, emesis, poisonous bites and bruises. The anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hyperlipidemic effects of curry leaf extracts have been demonstrated through several in vitro and in vivo experiments previously.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To prepare an alkaloid enriched fraction (AEF) from M. koenigii and its evaluation on i) in vitro adipogenesis process and ii) in vivo high fat diet-induced obesity in C57BL/6J mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MKME and AEF were prepared from M. koenigii leaves. The four carbazole alkaloids (bioactive markers) isolated from AEF were quantitatively determined in the leaves by RP-HPLC method. MKME and AEF were studied for anti-obesogenic activity in adipocytes in vitro and in HFD-induced C57BL/6J obese mice in vivo. At the termination of the in vivo study, lipid profile, hepatic and renal injury and glucose levels were analyzed in the blood samples. Animal tissues were examined histopathologically to determine any signs of damage. Repeated dose oral toxicity study for 28 days on Sprague-Dawley rats was also performed to determine the safety profile of AEF.

RESULTS

Both MKME and AEF displayed anti-obesogenic activity at 25 μg/ml concentration in vitro and showed 54.06 ± 3.86% and 37.46 ± 3.17% lipid accumulation, respectively compared to control. Further, supplementation of AEF and MKME in HFD-fed C57BL/6J mice helped in controlling weight gain, improved dyslipidemia and glucose intolerance significantly. AEF showed better anti-obesity activity than MKME both in vitro and in vivo study. Repeated administration of AEF up to 1 g/kg dose for 28 days showed no pathological tissue damage. Both MKME and AEF were standardized using a simple and validated RP-HPLC method.

CONCLUSION

Present study was aimed at preparation of a novel alkaloid-enriched fraction from methanolic extract of M. koenigii leaf and its evaluation for anti-diabesity effect. Our results demonstrated AEF to be a promising plant-based therapy for ameliorating obesity and related metabolic complications in HFD-fed C57BL/6J mice.

Bioeconomy and ethnopharmacology - Translational perspective and sustainability of the bioresources of northeast region of India

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The ecological environment of Northeast region of India (NER), with its high humidity, has resulted in greater speciation and genetic diversity of plant, animal, and microbial species. This region is not only rich in ethnic and cultural diversity, but it is also a major biodiversity hotspot. The sustainable use of these bioresources can contribute to the region's bioeconomic development.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The review aimed to deliver various perspectives on the development of bioeconomy from NER bioresources under the tenets of sustainable utilization and socioeconomic expansion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Relevant information related to prospects of the approaches and techniques pertaining to the sustainable use of ethnomedicine resources for the growth of the bioeconomy were retrieved from PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Springer from 1984 to 2023. All the appropriate abstracts, full-text articles and various book chapters on bioeconomy and ethnopharmacology were conferred.

RESULT

As the population grows, so does the demand for basic necessities such as food, health, and energy resources, where insufficient resource utilization and unsustainable pattern of material consumption cause impediments to economic development. On the other hand, the bioeconomy concept leads to "the production of renewable biological resources and the conversion of these resources and waste streams into value-added products.

CONCLUSIONS

In this context, major emphasis should be placed on strengthening the economy's backbone in order to ensure sustainable use of these resources and livelihood security; in other words, it can boost the bio-economy by empowering the local people in general.

Antidiabetic Activity, Phytochemical Analysis, and Acute Oral Toxicity Test of Combined Ethanolic Extract of Syzygium polyanthum and Muntingia calabura Leaves

Syzygium polyanthum is known for its capacity to regulate blood glucose levels in individuals with diabetes, while Muntingia calabura leaves have a traditional history as an alternative therapy due to their antidiabetic compounds. The combination of these two plants is expected to yield more optimized antidiabetic agents. This study aims to assess the antidiabetic activity of the combined ethanolic extract of S. polyanthum and M. calabura leaves by measuring the in vitro inhibition of the α-glucosidase enzyme and the blood glucose level in streptozotocin-induced rats and to determine the phytochemical contents of total phenolics, total flavonoids, and quercetine as marker compounds. Acute oral toxicity test was also evaluated. Both plants were extracted by maceration using 96% ethanol. Various combinations of S. polyanthum and M. calabura leaves extracts (1 : 1, 2 : 1, 3 : 1, 1 : 3, and 1 : 2) were prepared. The in vitro test, along with the total phenolic and total flavonoid content, were measured by using UV-Vis spectrophotometry, while quercetine levels were quantified through high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The in vivo and acute toxicity tests were performed on rats as an animal model. The findings demonstrated that the 1 : 1 combination of S. polyanthum and M. calabura leaves ethanolic extract displayed the highest enzyme inhibitory activity with IC50 value of 36.43 µg/mL. Moreover, the combination index (CI) was found <1 that indicates the synergism effect. This combination also decreases the blood glucose level in rats after 28 days of treatments without significant difference with positive control glibenclamide (p > 0.005), and it had medium lethal doses (LD50) higher than 2000 mg/kg BW. Phytochemical analysis showed that the levels of total phenolics, total flavonoids, and quercetine were 30.81% w/w, 1.37% w/w, and 3.25 mg/g, respectively. These findings suggest the potential of combined ethanolic extracts of S. polyanthum and M. calabura leaves (1 : 1) as raw materials for herbal antidiabetic medication.

The potential therapeutic value of the natural plant compounds matrine and oxymatrine in cardiovascular diseases

Matrine (MT) and Oxymatrine (OMT) are two natural alkaloids derived from plants. These bioactive compounds are notable for their diverse pharmacological effects and have been extensively studied and recognized in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases in recent years. The cardioprotective effects of MT and OMT involve multiple aspects, primarily including antioxidative stress, anti-inflammatory actions, anti-atherosclerosis, restoration of vascular function, and inhibition of cardiac remodeling and failure. Clinical pharmacology research has identified numerous novel molecular mechanisms of OMT and MT, such as JAK/STAT, Nrf2/HO-1, PI3 K/AKT, TGF-β1/Smad, and Notch pathways, providing new evidence supporting their promising therapeutic potential against cardiovascular diseases. Thus, this review aims to investigate the potential applications of MT and OMT in treating cardiovascular diseases, encompassing their mechanisms, efficacy, and safety, confirming their promise as lead compounds in anti-cardiovascular disease drug development.

Potential Role of Phytochemicals as Glucagon-like Peptide 1 Receptor (GLP-1R) Agonists in the Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus

Currently, there is no known cure for diabetes. Different pharmaceutical therapies have been approved for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), some are in clinical trials and they have been classified according to their route or mechanism of action. Insulin types, sulfonylureas, biguanides, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, thiazolidinediones, meglitinides, sodium-glucose cotransporter type 2 inhibitors, and incretin-dependent therapies (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists: GLP-1R, and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors: DPP-4). Although some of the currently available drugs are effective in the management of T2DM, the side effects resulting from prolonged use of these drugs remain a serious challenge. GLP-1R agonists are currently the preferred medications to include when oral metformin alone is insufficient to manage T2DM. Medicinal plants now play prominent roles in the management of various diseases globally because they are readily available and affordable as well as having limited and transient side effects. Recently, studies have reported the ability of phytochemicals to activate glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R), acting as an agonist just like the GLP-1R agonist with beneficial effects in the management of T2DM. Consequently, we propose that careful exploration of phytochemicals for the development of novel therapeutic candidates as GLP-1R agonists will be a welcome breakthrough in the management of T2DM and the co-morbidities associated with T2DM.

Understanding the Impact of Different Doses of Reducose® Mulberry Leaf Extract on Blood Glucose and Insulin Responses after Eating a Complex Meal: Results from a Double-Blind, Randomised, Crossover Trial

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are becoming an increasingly important health concern due to a rapidly ageing global population. The fastest growing NCD, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), is responsible for over 2 million deaths annually. Lifestyle changes, including dietary changes to low glycemic response (GR) foods, have been shown to reduce the risk of developing T2DM. The aim of this study was to investigate whether three different doses of Reducose®, a mulberry leaf extract, could lower the GR and insulinemic responses (IR) to a full meal challenge in healthy individuals. A double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, repeat-measure, crossover design trial was conducted by the Oxford Brookes Centre for Nutrition and Health; 37 healthy individuals completed the study. Participants consumed capsules containing either 200 mg, 225 mg, 250 mg Reducose® or placebo before a test meal consisting of 150 g white bread and egg mayo filler. Capillary blood samples were collected at 15-min intervals in the first hour and at 30-min intervals over the second and third hours to determine glucose and plasma insulin levels. The consumption of all three doses of Reducose® resulted in significantly lower blood glucose and plasma insulin levels compared to placebo. All three doses of Reducose® (200 mg, 225 mg, 250 mg) significantly lowered glucose iAUC 120 by 30% (p = 0.003), 33% (p = 0.001) and 32% (p = 0.002), respectively, compared with placebo. All three doses of Reducose® (200 mg, 225 mg, 250 mg) significantly lowered the plasma insulin iAUC 120 by 31% (p = 0.024), 34% (p = 0.004) and 38% (p < 0.001), respectively. The study demonstrates that the recommended dose (250 mg) and two lower doses (200 mg, 225 mg) of Reducose® can be used to help lower the GR and IR of a full meal containing carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

Effect of special types of bread with select herbal components on postprandial glucose levels in diabetic patients

BACKGROUND

Nutrition recommendations in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are to consume rye or integral bread instead of white bread. A positive effect on glucoregulation has been achieved by enriching food with various biologically active substances of herbal origin, so we formulated an herbal mixture that can be used as a supplement for a special type of bread (STB) to achieve better effects on postprandial glucose and insulin levels in patients with T2DM.

AIM

To compare organoleptic characteristics and effects of two types of bread on postprandial glucose and insulin levels in T2DM patients.

METHODS

This trial included 97 patients with T2DM. A parallel group of 16 healthy subjects was also investigated. All participants were given 50 g of rye bread and the same amount of a STB with an herbal mixture on 2 consecutive days. Postprandial blood glucose and insulin levels were compared at the 30th, 60th, 90th and 120th min. A questionnaire was used for subjective estimation of the organoleptic and satiety features of the two types of bread.

RESULTS

Compared to patients who consumed rye bread, significantly lower postprandial blood glucose and insulin concentrations were found in T2DM patients who consumed STB. No relevant differences were found among the healthy subjects. Subjectively estimated organoleptic and satiety characteristics are better for STB than for rye bread.

CONCLUSION

STB have better effects than rye bread on postprandial glucoregulation in T2DM patients. Subjectively estimated organoleptic and satiety characteristics are better for STB than for rye bread. Therefore, STB can be recommended for nutrition in T2DM patients.

Protective effects of hepatic diseases by bioactive phytochemicals in Fusarium oxysporum - A review

Lately, liver diseases were categorized as one of the most prevalent health problems globally as it causes a severe threat to mankind all over the world due to the wide range of occurrence. There are multiple factors causing hepatic disorders, such as alcohol, virus, poisons, adverse effects of drugs, poor diet, inherited conditions and obesity. Liver diseases have various types including alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, autoimmune hepatitis, liver cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, liver fibrosis and hepatic inflammation. Therefore, it is imperative to find effective and efficacious agents in managing liver diseases. Fusarium oxysporum, an endophytic fungus and containing many bioactive compounds, could be served as a forked medication for enormous number and types of maladies. It was characterized by producing biochemical compounds which had rare pharmacological properties as it may be found in a limit number of other medicinal plants. The majority of the past researches related to Fusarium oxysporum recited the fungal negative field either on the pathogenic effects of the fungus on economical crops or on the fungal chemical components to know how to resist it. The present review will highlight on the bright side of Fusarium oxysporum and introduce the functional activities of its chemical compounds for treating its target diseases. The key point of illustrated studies in this article is displaying wide range of detected bioactive compounds isolated from Fusarium oxysporum and in other illustrated studies it was elucidated the therapeutical and pharmacological potency of these biologically active compounds (isolated from medicinal plants sources) against different types of liver diseases including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, cirrhosis and others. It was demonstrated that F. oxysporum contains unique types of isoflavones, flavonoids, phenols and another active chemical compounds, and these compounds showed recently a fabulous clinical contribution in the therapy of liver injury diseases, which opens new and unprecedented way for evaluating the maintaining efficacy of Fusarium oxysporum bioactive compounds in dealing with hepatic complications and its remedy impacting on liver diseases and injured hepatocytes through recommending implement a practical study.

Preparation of chitosan nanoparticles loaded with Balanites aegyptiaca extract for treatment of streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats

Diabetes mellitus is characterized by elevated blood sugar level due to a deficiency in insulin production and/or action. Balanites aegyptiaca (BA) has been employed as a hypoglycemic medication. Nanoparticles (NPs) have many advantages like minimized drug dose, sustainable drug release, maximized bioavailability and delivery of drugs. The study aimed to synthesize novel chitosan (CS) NPs loaded with BA extract (BA Ex). The prepared NPs were examined in treatment of streptozotocin-induced diabetes in rats. The anti-diabetic efficiency was evaluated through measuring of levels of blood glucose, insulin, lipid profile, oxidative stress markers, pro-inflammatory cytokines. GC-MS, HPLC and ICP techniques showed the presence of numerous bioactive components that have an anti-diabetic effectiveness. BA Ex-CS NPs succeeded in treatment of diabetes; where, it increased insulin secretion, lowered both FBG and FTA levels and helped in neogenesis of pancreatic islets beta cells. The regenerative activity of BA Ex-CS NPs is attributed to its high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This antioxidant activity scavenged the generated free radicles that resulted from STZ administration. CS NPs raised the plant extract efficacy, prevented its degradation, and regulated the release of its components. The delivery of BA Ex bioactive components has been revolutionized by CS NPs.

Effects of Salvia mirzayanii extract administration on hyperglycemia improvement in diabetic rats: The role of GLUT4, PEPCK and G6Pase genes

Diabetes is a dangerous metabolic disorder by increasing incidence in human societies worldwide. Recently, much attention has been focused on the development of hypoglycemic agents, particularly the derivatives of herbal drugs, in the treatment of diabetes. This research aimed to study the anti-diabetic effect of Salvia mirzayanii in the diabetic rat models. First, the plant material was extracted from the leaves, and orally administered to the rats. After treating the animals with the aqueous extract of S. mirzayanii at a dose of 600 mg/kg, animal body weight for 12 weeks, fasting blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and body weight changes were examined. To analyze the anti-diabetic function of S. mirzayanii, we measured the expression of glucose transporter-4 (GLUT4), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), and glucose 6-phosphatase (G6Pase) genes in healthy and streptozotocin (STZ)-diabetic rats. The expression levels of the genes of interest in muscle and liver tissues were determined using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). There were no significant differences in fasting blood glucose and OGTT between normal control (NC) group and the diabetic control (DC) group treated with S. mirzayanii. In contrast, there was a significant difference with the untreated DC (P < 0.05). The treatment of diabetic rats with S. mirzayanii significantly increased the expression of GLUT4 in the muscle and decreased the expression levels of PEPCK and G6Pase in the liver compared to the DC group (P < 0.05). These findings clearly show that S. mirzayanii can improve hyperglycemia by increasing the GLUT4 expression, and inhibiting the gluconeogenesis pathway in the liver. In general, the obtained results provided a new insight into the efficacy of S. mirzayanii aqueous extract as an anti-diabetic herbal medicine.

Fermented formulation of Silybum marianum seeds: Optimization, heavy metal analysis, and hepatoprotective assessment

BACKGROUND

Fermented formulations are extensively used in Ayurveda due to several benefits like improved palatability, bioavailability, pharmacological potential, and shelf life. These formulations can also quench the heavy metals from the plant material and thus reduce the toxicity. Seeds of Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn. are widely used for the management of many liver diseases.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

In the present study, we developed a novel fermented formulation of S. marianum seeds and evaluated parameters like safety (heavy metal analysis) and effectiveness (hepatoprotective). As the developed formulation's validation is crucial, the critical process variables (time, pH, and sugar concentration) are optimized for alcohol and silybin content using the Box-Behnken design (BBD).

RESULTS

The response surface methodology coupled with BBD predicted the optimized conditions (fermentation time (28 days), pH 5.6, and sugar concentration (22.04%)) for the development of a fermented formulation of the selected herb. Moreover, the alcohol content (6.5 ± 0.9%) and silybin concentration (26.1 ± 2.1%) were confirmed in optimized formulation by GC-MS and HPTLC analysis. The optimized formulation was also analyzed for heavy metals (Pb, As, Hg, and Cd); their concentration is significantly less than the decoction of herbs. Further, the comparative evaluation of the developed formulation with the marketed formulation also confirmed that the fermented formulation's silybin concentration and percentage release were significantly enhanced. In addition, the developed fermented formulation's percentage recovery of HepG2 cell lines after treatment with CCl4 was significantly improved compared with the marketed formulation.

CONCLUSION

It can be summarized that the developed fermented formulation improves safety and effectiveness compared to other market formulations. Finally, it can be concluded that the developed fermented formulation could be further explored as a better alternative for developing Silybum marianum preparation.

Madhuca longifolia-hydro-ethanolic-fraction reverses mitochondrial dysfunction and modulates selective GLUT expression in diabetic mice fed with high fat diet

BACKGROUND

Metabolic disorder is characterized as chronic low-grade inflammation which elevates the systemic inflammatory markers. The proposed hypothesis behind this includes occurrence of hypoxia due to intake of high fat diet leading to oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction.

AIM

In the present work our aim was to elucidate the possible mechanism of action of hydroethanolic fraction of M. longifolia leaves against the metabolic disorder.

METHOD AND RESULTS

In the present investigation, effect of Madhuca longifolia hydroethanolic fraction (MLHEF) on HFD induced obesity and diabetes through mitochondrial action and selective GLUT expression has been studied. In present work, it was observed that HFD (50% of diet) on chronic administration aggravates the metabolic problems by causing reduced imbalanced oxidative stress, ATP production, and altered selective GLUT protein expression. Long term HFD administration reduced (p < 0.001) the SOD, CAT level significantly along with elevated liver function marker AST and ALT. MLHEF administration diminishes this oxidative stress. HFD administration also causes decreased ATP/ADP ratio owing to suppressed mitochondrial function and elevating LDH level. This oxidative imbalance further leads to dysregulated GLUT expression in hepatocytes, skeletal muscles and white adipose tissue. HFD leads to significant (p < 0.001) upregulation in GLUT 1 and 3 expression while significant (p < 0.001) downregulation in GLUT 2 and 4 expressions in WAT, liver and skeletal muscles. Administration of MLHEF significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the LDH level and also reduces the mitochondrial dysfunction.

CONCLUSION

Imbalances in GLUT levels were significantly reversed in order to maintain GLUT expression in tissues on the administration of MLHEF.

Unveiling the Latest Breakthroughs: A Comprehensive Review of the Therapeutic Activity and Safety Profile of Aloe vera

The use of herbal drugs as alternative and complementary medicine has increased in popularity, raising concerns about their safety profile. Aloe vera, a plant with diverse therapeutic properties, has been extensively used for centuries. This review aims to assess the therapeutic activity and safety profile of Aloe vera. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to gather relevant information from various biomedical databases. The chemical composition, mechanism of action, and therapeutic activities of Aloe vera were analyzed. Aloe vera contains numerous active components such as vitamins, enzymes, minerals, sugars, lignin, saponins, and anthraquinones. Its mechanisms of action involve collagen synthesis, anti-inflammatory effects, immune modulation, laxative properties, and antiviral activity. Aloe vera has demonstrated potential therapeutic benefits in wound healing, diabetes management, liver and kidney protection, and glycemic control. However, it is essential to consider potential side effects, such as skin irritation and allergic reactions. This review provides evidence-based information to improve patient safety and promote informed decisions regarding the use of Aloe vera as a therapeutic agent.

Chemical Analysis of the Antihyperglycemic, and Pancreatic α-Amylase, Lipase, and Intestinal α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activities of Cannabis sativa L. Seed Extracts

Cannabis is considered (Cannabis sativa L.) a sacred herb in many countries and is vastly employed in traditional medicine to remedy numerous diseases, such as diabetes. This research investigates the chemical composition of the aqueous extracts from Cannabis sativa L. seeds. Furthermore, the impact of these extracts on pancreatic α-amylase and lipase, and intestinal α-glucosidase enzymes is evaluated, as well as their antihyperglycemic effect. Analysis of the chemical composition of the aqueous extract was conducted using high-performance liquid chromatography with a photodiode array detector (HPLC-DAD). In contrast, the ethanol, hexanic, dichloromethane, and aqueous extract compositions have been established. Additionally, the inhibitory effects of ethanolic, dichloromethane, and aqueous extracts on pancreatic α-amylase and lipase, and intestinal α-glucosidase activities were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. The results of HPLC analysis indicate that the most abundant phenolic compound in the aqueous cannabis seed extract is 3-hydroxycinnamic acid, followed by 4-hydroxybenzoic acid and rutin acid. Moreover, administration of ethanolic and aqueous extracts at a dose of 150 mg/Kg significantly suppressed postprandial hyperglycemia compared to the control group; the ethanolic, dichloromethane, and aqueous extracts significantly inhibit pancreatic α-amylase and lipase, and intestinal α-glucosidase in vitro. The pancreatic α-amylase test exhibited an inhibition with IC50 values of 16.36 ± 1.24 µg/mL, 19.33 ± 1.40 µg/mL, 23.53 ± 1.70 µg/mL, and 17.06 ± 9.91 µg/mL for EAq, EDm, EET, and EHx, respectively. EET has the highest inhibitory capacity for intestinal α-glucosidase activity, with an IC50 of 32.23 ± 3.26 µg/mL. The extracts inhibit porcine pancreatic lipase activity, demonstrating their potential as lipase inhibitors. Specifically, at a concentration of 1 mg/mL, the highest inhibition rate (77%) was observed for EDm. To confirm these results, the inhibitory effect of these extracts on enzymes was tested in vivo. The oral intake of aqueous extract markedly reduced starch- and sucrose-induced hyperglycemia in healthy rats. Administration of the ethanolic extract at a specific dose of 150 mg/kg significantly reduced postprandial glycemia compared with the control group. It is, therefore, undeniable that cannabis extracts represent a promising option as a potentially effective treatment for type 2 diabetes.

Effect of crocin and treadmill exercise on oxidative stress and heart damage in diabetic rats

Diabetes increases the production of free radicals and inflammatory agents in the heart tissue and alters the expression of genes associated with the induction of apoptosis. Considering the importance of common cardiovascular disorders in diabetes, this study investigated the effect of eight weeks of aerobic exercise and crocin use, as well as tissue damage and oxidative stress caused by diabetes in the hearts of adult rats. Streptozotocin 50 mg/kg was injected as a single dose intraperitoneally to cause the diabetes. After 72 hours, a glucometer monitored blood glucose levels, and blood glucose above 250 mg/dl was considered diabetes. Continuous treadmill exercise was performed for eight weeks by placing the animal on the treadmill. Next, the animals were anesthetized, and samples were taken from the hearts and frozen in liquid nitrogen. Then, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured in the cardiac tissue. Finally, the hearts of half of the animals were immediately immersed in a formalin solution for histological changes. According to our findings, diabetes increased lipid peroxidation, characterized by increased MDA levels in the control diabetes group and decreased SOD and GPx levels (P <0.05). It also changes the balance of expression of genes associated with apoptosis control, increased Bcl-2-associated X (Bax) expression, and decreased Bcl-2 expression (P <0.05). Also, we observed the induction of apoptosis in cardiac tissue. Using eight weeks of continuous exercise and administration of crocin significantly reduced blood sugar levels and lipid peroxidation and increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes and Bcl-2 gene expression compared to the diabetes control group. In addition, continuous exercise and crocin improved the oxidative stress parameters in the control group. This study showed that diabetes could cause oxidative stress and heart dysfunction. Moreover, simultaneously and separately, aerobic exercise with a treadmill and crocin administration can reduce these disorders and prevent apoptosis in the heart tissue.

Ameliorative effects of Scutellaria Pinnatifida subsp. pichleri (Stapf) Rech.f. Extract in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats: chemical composition, biochemical and histopathological evaluation

BACKGROUNDS

Scutellaria Pinnatifida subsp. pichleri (Stapf) Rech.f. (SP) is used in folk medicine for the treatment of diabetes. The aim of the study was to determine the phenolic profile of SP extract (SPE) by LC-MS/MS and to investigate the antidiabetic, hepatoprotective and nephroprotective effects of SPE in streptozotosin (STZ)-induced diabetic rat model.

METHODS

Forty-two rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 7): Control (nondiabetic), diabetes mellitus (DM), DM + SP-100 (diabetic rats treated with SPE, 100 mg/kg/day), DM + SP-200 (diabetic rats treated with SPE, 200 mg/kg/day), DM + SP-400 (diabetic rats treated with SPE, 400 mg/kg/day) and DM + Gly-3 (diabetic rats treated with glibenclamide, 3 mg/kg/day). Live body weight, fasting blood glucose (FBG) level, antidiabetic, serum biochemical and lipid profile parameters, antioxidant defense system, malondyaldehyde (MDA) and histopathological examinations in liver, kidney and pancreas were evaluated.

RESULTS

Apigenin, luteolin, quinic acid, cosmosiin and epigallocatechin were determined to be the major phenolic compounds in the SPE. Administration of the highest dose of SP extract (400 mg/kg) resulted in a significant reduction in FBG levels and glycosylated hemoglobin levels in STZ-induced diabetic rats, indicating an antihyperglycemic effect. SPE (200 and 400 mg/kg) and glibenclamide significantly improved MDA in liver and kidney tissues. In addition, SPE contributed to the struggle against STZ-induced oxidative stress by stimulating antioxidant defense systems. STZ induction negatively affected liver, kidney and pancreas tissues according to histopathological findings. Treatment with 400 mg/kg and glibenclamide attenuated these negative effects.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, the extract of the aerial part of Scutellaria pinnatifida subsp. pichleri has hepatoprotective, nephroprotective and insulin secretion stimulating effects against STZ-induced diabetes and its complications due to its antidiabetic and antioxidant phytochemicals such as apigenin, luteolin, quinic acid, cosmosiin and epigallocatechin.

A randomized, controlled, comparative, proof-of-concept study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Nisha-Amalaki capsules in prediabetic patients for preventing progression to diabetes

BACKGROUND

Prediabetes is an intermediate state of hyperglycemia, which acts as a precursor to Diabetes mellitus if left untreated. Nisha (Curcuma longa) and Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) combination has been advocated as drugs of choice to treat the early manifestations of Diabetes mellitus.

OBJECTIVE

This prospective, randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled, comparative study was planned to assess the efficacy and safety of Nisha-Amalaki capsules in preventing progression to Diabetes mellitus in prediabetic patients when administered for 6 months.

METHODS

The study was conducted on prediabetic participants randomized to receive either Nisha-Amalaki (500 mg) or placebo one capsule twice a day for six months. The effect of study medications on IDRS (Indian Diabetes Risk Score), BMI (Body Mass Index), blood sugar, serum insulin, HOMA-IR (Homeostasis Model Assessment-Estimated Insulin Resistance), HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin), oxidative markers, Ayurvedic symptoms and Quality of Life (QoL) scores was assessed at regular intervals.

RESULTS

58 of the 62 participants enrolled completed the study. Significant fall in IDRS score [p < 0.001], BMI [p < 0.001], fasting, and 2 h post-OGTT sugar, insulin, HbA1c, HOMA-IR, and oxidative stress markers [p < 0.001] was observed in patients receiving Nisha-Amalaki at 6 months. Ayurvedic symptoms and QoL scores also improved at 6 months in the treatment group.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with Nisha-Amalaki capsules improved all study parameters including insulin sensitivity at 6 months as compared to placebo in prediabetic patients. Thus Nisha-Amalaki should be considered as prophylactic therapy in prediabetics to delay progression to diabetes.

Plant regeneration from embryogenic callus-derived from immature leaves of Momordica charantia L

Bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.), a widely cultivated food and medicinal plant native to the world's subtropics and tropics, is a Cucurbitaceae rich in carotenoids. However, the low seed germination frequency and progeny variability associated with the production of this plant have a substantial impact on its growth and yield. These constraints affect the availability and exploitation of this crop, especially the fruits, which are rich in secondary metabolites such as β-carotene and α-carotene. In vitro regeneration would help overcome the obstacle linked to the germination of this plant and increase its yield and utilization. A reproducible in vitro organogenesis protocol was established using bitter melon embryogenic callus derived from immature leaf explants of in vivo grown seedlings and in vitro plantlets. Regeneration via callus was conducted on MSB5 media augmented with different plant growth regulator concentrations. The maximum frequency of callus formation (95.09 %) was produced in MSB5 media incorporated with 1.2 mg L-1 NAA augmented with 0.5 mg L-1 TDZ. MSB5 medium with no growth regulators was observed to be the most suitable for the shoot and root formation from the callus, producing a significantly high shoot percentage of 90.91 % and 21.53 shoots per explants, and the highest rooting frequency and root number of 88.92 % and 6.23 roots per explant, respectively, from leaf-derived callus of in vitro plantlets. The elongated plantlets had grown to a significantly higher average height of 12.20 cm on media added with 0.75 mg L-1 GA3. This reproducible method for regenerating bitter melon plantlets could facilitate mass multiplication, conservation, and commercial field production.

Antihyperglycemic potential of the Lavandula stoechas aqueous extract via inhibition of digestive enzymes and reduction of intestinal glucose absorption

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus is a widespread metabolic disorder affecting global populations. Lavandula stoechas from Moroccan traditional medicine is used for its potential anti-diabetic effects.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the antihyperglycemic impact of the aqueous extract of L. stoechas (AqLs) and explore its mechanisms.

METHODS

The study employed a glucose tolerance test (OGTT) on normal and diabetic Wistar rats, administering AqLs at 150 mg/kg. In vitro, AqLs was tested against α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities, confirmed in vivo using normal and Allx-diabetic rats. The extract's impact on intestinal d-glucose absorption was assessed using the jejunum segment perfusion technique at 250 mg/kg in situ. Albino mice were used to assess toxicity.

RESULTS

AqLs significantly reduced postprandial hyperglycemia (P < 0.001) due to glucose overload. It inhibited pancreatic α-amylase (IC50: 0.485 mg/mL) and intestinal α-glucosidase (IC50: 168 µg/mL) in vitro. Oral AqLs at 150 mg/kg reduced hyperglycemia induced by sucrose and starch in normal and diabetic rats. It also lowered (P < 0.001) intestinal glucose absorption in situ at 250 mg/kg. Oral acute toxicity tests on Albino mice indicated no adverse effects at different doses.

CONCLUSION

to summarize, L. stoechas has evident antihyperglycemic effects attributed to inhibiting intestinal glucose absorption and key monosaccharide digestion enzymes like α-amylase and α-glucosidase.

Geranylated or prenylated flavonoids from Cajanus volubilis

Five new flavonoid derivatives, cajavolubones A-E (1-5), along with six known analogues (6-11) were isolated from Cajanus volubilis, and their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic analysis and quantum chemical calculations. Cajavolubones A and B (1 and 2) were identified as two geranylated chalcones. Cajavolubone C (3) was a prenylated flavone, while cajavolubones D and E (4 and 5) were two prenylated isoflavanones. Compounds 3, 8, 9 and 11 displayed cytotoxicity against HCT-116 cancer cell line.

Major Bioactive Compounds from Java Plum Seeds: An Investigation of Its Extraction Procedures and Clinical Effects

Java plum is widely recognized as a plant with valuable medicinal properties, originating from Indonesia and India and distributed globally in the tropic and sub-tropic regions of the world. The plant is rich in alkaloids, flavonoids, phenyl propanoids, terpenes, tannins, and lipids. The phytoconstituents of the plant seeds possess various vital pharmacological activities and clinical effects including their antidiabetic potential. The bioactive phytoconstituents of Java plum seeds include jambosine, gallic acid, quercetin, β-sitosterol, ferulic acid, guaiacol, resorcinol, p-coumaric acid, corilagin, ellagic acid, catechin, epicatechin, tannic acid, 4,6 hexahydroxydiphenoyl glucose, 3,6-hexahydroxy diphenoylglucose, 1-galloylglucose, and 3-galloylglucose. Considering all the potential beneficial effects of the major bioactive compounds present in the Jamun seeds, in the current investigation, the specific clinical effects and the mechanism of action for the major bioactive compounds along with the extraction procedures are discussed.

Relevance of Indian traditional tisanes in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus: a review

Background

Tisanes are a potential source of phytochemicals to reduce disease risk conditions and are used to protect from non-communicable diseases, globally. A few tisanes have gained more popularity than others depending on their chemical composition based on the geographical origin of the used herb. Several Indian tisanes have been claimed to have traits beneficial to people with or at a high risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Under the concept, the literature was reviewed and compiled into a document to highlight the chemical uniqueness of popular Indian traditional tisanes to be more informative and potent as per modern medicine to overcome type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

An extensive literature survey was conducted using computerized database search engines, such as Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and EMBASE (Excerpta Medica database) for herbs that have been described for hyperglycemia, and involved reaction mechanism, in-vivo studies as well as clinical efficacies published since 2001 onwards using certain keywords. Compiled survey data used to make this review and all findings on Indian traditional antidiabetic tisanes are tabulated here.

Results

Tisanes render oxidative stress, counter the damage by overexposure of free radicals to the body, affect enzymatic activities, enhance insulin secretion, etc. The active molecules of tisanes also act as anti-allergic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antithrombotic, antiviral, antimutagenicity, anti-carcinogenicity, antiaging effects, etc. WHO also has a strategy to capitalize on the use of herbals to keep populations healthy through effective and affordable alternative means with robust quality assurance and strict adherence to the product specification.

The Effects of Momordica charantia on Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Alzheimer's Disease

T2DM is a complex metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance. It is recognized as one of the most common metabolic disorders and its prevalence continues to raise major concerns in healthcare globally. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a gradual neurodegenerative brain disorder characterized by the chronic loss of cognitive and behavioral function. Recent research suggests a link between the two diseases. Considering the shared characteristics of both diseases, common therapeutic and preventive agents are effective. Certain bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals found in vegetables and fruits can have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that allow for preventative or potential treatment options for T2DM and AD. Recently, it has been estimated that up to one-third of patients with diabetes use some form of complementary and alternative medicine. Increasing evidence from cell or animal models suggests that bioactive compounds may have a direct effect on reducing hyperglycemia, amplifying insulin secretion, and blocking the formation of amyloid plaques. One plant that has received substantial recognition for its numerous bioactive properties is Momordica charantia (M. charantia), otherwise known as bitter melon, bitter gourd, karela, and balsam pear. M. charantia is utilized for its glucose-lowering effects and is often used as a treatment for diabetes and related metabolic conditions amongst the indigenous populations of Asia, South America, India, and East Africa. Several pre-clinical studies have documented the beneficial effects of M. charantia through various postulated mechanisms. Throughout this review, the underlying molecular mechanisms of the bioactive components of M. charantia will be highlighted. More studies will be necessary to establish the clinical efficacy of the bioactive compounds within M. charantia to effectively determine its pertinence in the treatment of metabolic disorders and neurodegenerative diseases, such as T2DM and AD.

Naturally-occurring carboxylic acids from traditional antidiabetic plants as potential pancreatic islet FABP3 inhibitors. A molecular docking-aided study

The antidiabetic action of traditional plants is mostly attributed to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These plants are still having some secrets, making them an attractive source that allows for investigating new drugs or uncovering precise pharmacologic antidiabetic functions of their constituents. In diabetes, which is a lipid disease, long-term exposure of pancreatic islet beta cells to fatty acids (FAs) increases basal insulin release, reduces glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, causes islet beta cell inflammation, failure and apoptosis. Pancreatic islet beta cells express fatty acid binding protein 3 (FABP3) that receives long-chain FAs and traffics them throughout different cellular compartments to be metabolized and render their effects. Inhibition of this FABP3 may retard FA metabolism and protect islet beta cells. Since FAs interact with FABPs by their carboxylic group, some traditionally-known antidiabetic plants were reviewed in the present study, searching for their components that have common features of FABP ligands, namely carboxylic group and hydrophobic tail. Many of these carboxylic acids were computationally introduced into the ligand-binding pocket of FABP3 and some of them exhibited FABP3 ligand possibilities. Among others, the naturally occurring ferulic, cleomaldeic, caffeic, sinapic, hydroxycinnamic, 4-p-coumaroylquinic, quinoline-2-carboxylic, chlorogenic, 6-hydroxykynurenic, and rosmarinic acids in many plants are promising candidates for being FABP3-specific inhibitors. The study shed light on repurposing these phyto-carboxylic acids to function as FABP inhibitors. However, more in-depth biological and pharmacological studies to broaden the understanding of this function are needed.

Where to begin? The best publications for newcomers to ethnopharmacology

Have you ever tried to enter a new field of research or to get a basic overview? Of course, we all have. However, where does one begin when entering a new field of research? This mini-review offers a concise (and certainly not comprehensive) overview on the fast-evolving field of ethnopharmacology. Based on a survey in which researchers provided feedback on the publications they find most relevant in the field and an assessment of what publications have been particularly relevant in the field, this paper offers a review of the 30 best papers and books for newcomers in the field. They cover the relevant areas within ethnopharmacology and give examples from all the core regions where ethnopharmacological research is being conducted. Different and sometimes contrasting approaches and theoretical frameworks are included, as well as publications reviewing important methods. With this, basic knowledge on related fields such as ethnobotany, anthropology, fieldwork methods and pharmacognosy is also incorporated. This paper is an invitation to explore fundamental aspects of the field and to understand the particular challenges faced by researchers newly entering this multi- and transdisciplinary field, and to provide them with examples of particularly stimulating research.

Antidiabetes study of Spondias mombin (Linn) stem bark fractions in high-sucrose diet-induced diabetes in Drosophila melanogaster

Objective

The onset of insulin resistant diabetes has been associated with a high-sucrose diet in vertebrates and invertebrates. However, various parts of Spondias mombin reportedly possess antidiabetic potential. However, the antidiabetic efficacy of S. mombin stem bark in high-sucrose diet-induced Drosophila melanogaster model has not been explored. In this study, the antidiabetic and antioxidant effects of the solvent fractions of S. mombin stem bark were evaluated using in vitro, in vivo, and in silico methods.

Methods

Successive fractionation of S. mombin stem bark ethanol extract was performed; the resulting fractions were subjected to in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic assays using standard protocols. The active compounds identified from the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) study of the n-butanol fraction were docked against the active site of Drosophila α-amylase using AutoDoc Vina. The n-butanol and ethyl acetate fractions of the plant were incorporated into the diet of diabetic and nondiabetic flies to study the in vivo antidiabetic and antioxidant properties.

Results

The results obtained revealed that n-butanol and ethyl acetate fractions had the highest in vitro anti-oxidant capacity by inhibiting 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power, and hydroxyl radical followed by significant inhibition of α-amylase. HPLC analysis revealed the identification of eight compounds with quercetin having the highest peak followed by rutin, rhamnetin, chlorogenic acid, zeinoxanthin, lutin, isoquercetin, and rutinose showing the lowest peak. The fractions restored the glucose and antioxidant imbalance in diabetic flies, which is comparable with the standard drug (metformin). The fractions were also able to upregulate the mRNA expression of insulin-like peptide 2, insulin receptor, and ecdysone-inducible gene 2 in diabetic flies. The in silico studies revealed the inhibitory potential of active compounds against α-amylase with isoquercetin, rhamnetin, rutin, quercetin, and chlorogenic acid having higher binding affinity than the standard drug (acarbose).

Conclusion

Overall, the butanol and ethyl acetate fractions of S. mombin stem bark ameliorate type 2 diabetes in Drosophila. However, further studies are needed in other animal models to confirm the antidiabetes effect of the plant.

Bioevaluation of synthetic pyridones as dual inhibitors of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes and potential antioxidants

Herein, a library of novel pyridone derivatives 1-34 was designed, synthesized, and evaluated for α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory as well as antioxidant activities. Pyridone derivatives 1-34 were synthesized via a one-pot multi-component reaction of variously substituted aromatic aldehydes, acetophenone, ethyl cyanoacetate, and ammonium acetate in absolute ethanol. Synthetic compounds 1-34 were structurally characterized by different spectroscopic techniques. Most of the tested compounds showed more promising inhibition potential than the standard acarbose (IC₅₀  = 14.87 ± 0.16 µM) but compounds 13 and 12 were found to be the most potent compounds with IC₅₀ values of 9.20 ± 0.14 µM and 3.05 ± 0.18 µM against α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes, respectively. Compounds 1-34 also displayed moderate antioxidant potential in the range of IC₅₀  = 96.50 ± 0.45 to 189.98 ± 1.00 µM in comparison to the control butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) (IC₅₀  = 66.50 ± 0.36 µM), in DPPH radical scavenging activities. Additionally, all synthetic derivatives were subjected to a molecular docking study to investigate the interaction details of compounds 1-34 (ligands) with the active site of enzymes (receptors). These results indicate that the newly synthesized pyridone class may serve as promising lead candidates for controlling diabetes mellitus and as antioxidants.

Integrated network pharmacology and molecular modeling approach for the discovery of novel potential MAPK3 inhibitors from whole green jackfruit flour targeting obesity-linked diabetes mellitus

The current study investigates the effectiveness of phytocompounds from the whole green jackfruit flour methanol extract (JME) against obesity-linked diabetes mellitus using integrated network pharmacology and molecular modeling approach. Through network pharmacology, druglikeness and pharmacokinetics, molecular docking simulations, GO analysis, molecular dynamics simulations, and binding free energy analyses, it aims to look into the mechanism of the JME phytocompounds in the amelioration of obesity-linked diabetes mellitus. There are 15 predicted genes corresponding to the 11 oral bioactive compounds of JME. The most important of these 15 genes was MAPK3. According to the network analysis, the insulin signaling pathway has been predicted to have the strongest affinity to MAPK3 protein, which was chosen as the target. With regard to the molecular docking simulation, the greatest notable binding affinity for MAPK3 was discovered to be caffeic acid (-8.0 kJ/mol), deoxysappanone B 7,3'-dimethyl ether acetate (DBDEA) (-8.2 kJ/mol), and syringic acid (-8.5 kJ/mol). All the compounds were found to be stable inside the inhibitor binding pocket of the enzyme during molecular dynamics simulation. During binding free energy calculation, all the compounds chiefly used Van der Waal's free energy to bind with the target protein (caffeic acid: 102.296 kJ/mol, DBDEA: -104.268 kJ/mol, syringic acid: -100.171 kJ/mol). Based on these findings, it may be inferred that the reported JME phytocompounds could be used for in vitro and in vivo research, with the goal of targeting MAPK3 inhibition for the treatment of obesity-linked diabetes mellitus.

Insight into the phytochemical profile and antimicrobial activities of Amomum subulatum and Amomum xanthioides: an in vitro and in silico study

Introduction

Medicinal plants have been considered as potential source of therapeutics or as starting materials in drugs formulation.

Methods

The current study aims to shed light on the therapeutic potential of the Amomum subulatom and Amomum xanthioides Fruits by analyzing the phytochemical composition of their seeds and fruits using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) techniques to determine the presence of bioactive components such as flavonoids, phenols, vitamins, steroids, and essential oils.

Results and Discussion

The protein content is usually higher than the total lipids in both species except the fruit of A. subulatum which contain more lipids than proteins. The total protein contents for A. subulatum were 235.03 ± 21.49 and 227.49 ± 25.82 mg/g dry weight while for A. xanthioides were 201.9 ± 37.79 and 294.99 ± 37.93 mg/g dry weight for seeds and fruit, respectively. The Carvacrol levels in A. subulatum is 20 times higher than that in A. xanthioides. Lower levels of α-Thujene, Phyllanderenes, Ascaridole, and Pinocarvone were also observed in both species. According to DPPH (2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl) assay, seed the extract of A. subulatum exhibited the highest antioxidant activity (78.26±9.27 %) followed by the seed extract of A. xanthioides (68.21±2.56 %). Similarly, FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) assay showed that the highest antioxidant activity was exhibited by the seed extract of the two species; 20.14±1.11 and 21.18±1.04 µmol trolox g-1 DW for A. subulatum and A. xanthioides, respectively. In terms of anti-lipid peroxidation, relatively higher values were obtained for the fruit extract of A. subulatum (6.08±0.35) and the seed extract of A. xanthioides (6.11±0.55). Ethanolic seed extracts of A. subulatum had the highest efficiency against four Gram-negative bacterial species which causes serious human diseases, namely Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, Enterobacter aerogenes, and Salmonella typhimurium. In addition, P. aeruginosa was also inhibited by the fruit extract of both A. subulatum and A. xanthioides. For the seed extract of A. xanthioides, large inhibition zones were formed against P. vulgaris and the fungus Candida albicans. Finally, we have in silico explored the mode of action of these plants by performing detailed molecular modeling studies and showed that the antimicrobial activities of these plants could be attributed to the high binding affinity of their bioactive compounds to bind to the active sites of the sterol 14-alpha demethylase and the transcriptional regulator MvfR.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate the two species extracts possess high biological activities and therapeutical values, which increases their potential value in a number of therapeutic applications.

Evaluation of flavonoids from banana pseudostem and flower (quercetin and catechin) as potent inhibitors of α-glucosidase: An in silico perspective

The amelioration of postprandial hyperglycemia in diabetic conditions could be accomplished by the inhibition of α-glucosidases, a set of intestinal carbohydrate digestive enzymes responsible for starch hydrolysis and its absorption. The ethnopharmacological profile of banana depicts the usage of different plant parts in conventional medicinal formulations. The antidiabetic studies of the plant have demonstrated their ability to inhibit α-glucosidase. Besides, our research group has reported the α-glucosidase inhibitory potential of the banana pseudostem and flower extracts in previous studies. In this study, we deliberate on the specific phytoconstituents of banana pseudostem and flower to evaluate their antidiabetic effects through an in silico perspective for the α-glucosidase inhibition. In this context, several phytoconstituents of banana pseudostem and flower identified through GC-MS analysis were retrieved from chemical databases. These phytochemicals were virtually screened through the molecular docking simulation process, from which only two flavonoids (catechin and quercetin) were selected based on their binding affinity and extent of interaction with the α-glucosidase target protein. The lower binding affinities of catechin and quercetin in comparison with that of acarbose as a control proved their binding efficiency with the target protein. In addition, acarbose showed subservient molecular interaction, forming an unfavourable acceptor-acceptor bond. The molecular dynamics simulations also depicted the effective binding and stability of the complexes formed with catechin and quercetin, in comparison with that of acarbose. Further, PASS analysis, druglikeliness, and pharmacokinetic assessments showed that both catechin and quercetin edge over acarbose in terms of drug-score and pharmacokinetic properties. With the positive results obtained from contemporary strategies, the two flavonoids from banana pseudostem and flower might be established as a considerable phototherapeutic approach to inhibit α-glucosidase. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

In silico identification of antidiabetic target for phytochemicals of A. marmelos and mechanistic insights by molecular dynamics simulations

The leaves and fruits of Aegle marmelos (L.) have antidiabetic activity. However, the mode of action and molecules having antidiabetic activity are not known. Hence, we conducted molecular docking of phytochemicals with various molecular antidiabetic targets to find the same. Docking prioritized Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) as the main target for phytochemicals of Aegle marmelos. DPP-4 inactivates intestinal peptides, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and Gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP). GLP-1 and GIP stimulate a decline in blood glucose levels, but DPP-4 inhibits their functions resulting high level of glucose. Hence inhibiting the activity of DPP-4 is a well-known strategy to treat Type 2 diabetes. Therefore, to find a mechanism that may be involved to act as a natural inhibitor of DPP-4, we screened five phytochemicals out of seventy-three based on Virtual Screening, ADMET Drug-likeness analysis, and PAINS filtering. Further, all five phytochemicals, i.e. Aegeline, Citral, Marmesinin, Auraptene, β-Bisabolene, and reference compound subjected MDS for analyzing the stability of docked complexes to assess the fluctuation and conformational changes during protein-ligand interaction. The values of RMSD, RG, RMSF, SASA, and Gibbs energy revealed the good stability of these phytochemicals in the active site pocket of DPP-4 in comparison to reference. Additionally, we have done the pharmacophore analysis, which revealed many common pharmacophore features between screened phytochemicals of A. marmelos and reference molecule. Our results show that these phytochemicals are potential antidiabetic candidates and can be further modified and evaluated to develop more effective antidiabetic drugs against DPP-4 to treat Type 2 Diabetes. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Ethnomedicinal Uses, Phytochemistry, and Therapeutic Potentials of Litsea glutinosa (Lour.) C. B. Robinson: A Literature-Based Review

Litsea glutinosa (Lour.) C. B. Robinson, belonging to the family Lauraceae, is a multipurpose and fast-growing evergreen or deciduous tree that has been traditionally used for numerous purposes such as treatment for diarrhea, dysentery, abdominal pain, indigestion, gastroenteritis, edema, traumatic injuries, colds, arthritis, asthma, diabetes, pain relief, and poignant sexual power. This study aimed to summarize the chemical reports, folk values, and phytopharmacological activities of L. glutinosa, based on available information screened from diverse databases. An up-to-date electronic-based search was accomplished to obtain detailed information, with the help of several databases such as Google Scholar, Scopus, SpringerLink, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, ResearchGate, PubMed, ChemSpider, Elsevier, BioMed Central, and the USPTO, CIPO, INPI, Google Patents, and Espacenet, using relevant keywords. Outcomes advocate that, up to the present time, alkaloids, glycosides, and terpenoids are abundant in, and the most bioactive constituents of, this natural plant. Results demonstrated that L. glutinosa has various remarkable biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anticancer, antipyretic, anti-diabetic, analgesic, hepatoprotective, and wound-healing activity. One study revealed that L. glutinosa exhibited significant aphrodisiac and anti-infertility activity. Nevertheless, no clinical studies have been cited. Taken together, L. glutinosa may be one of the significant sources of bioactive constituents that could potentially lead to different effective pharmacological activities. On the other hand, future research should focus on clinical studies and several toxicity evaluations, such as sub-chronic toxicity, teratogenicity, and genotoxicity.

Plant bioactive compounds and their mechanistic approaches in the treatment of diabetes: a review

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a growing disease across the world; diabetes is a complex metabolic disorder in which blood glucose concentration level increases and continue for a prolonged period due to a decrease secretion of insulin or action, resulting in the disorder of carbohydrate, lipid, and protein metabolism. The plant-related bioactive compounds have proven their efficacy with least toxicities and can be utilized for the disease treatment. Our objective is to elucidate the mechanism of action of plant bioactive compounds which can give future direction in diabetes treatment.

Main body

In this review paper, we briefly study more than 200 research papers related to disease and bioactive compounds that have therapeutic applicability in treatment. The plant contains many bio-active compounds which possess in vitro and in vivo anti-diabetic effect which may be responsible for the hypoglycaemic property by inhibiting the digestive enzyme i.e. alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase, by producing mimetic action of insulin, by reducing the oxidative stress, by showing antihyperglycemic activity and hypolipidemic activity, by inhibition of aldose reductase, and by increasing or enhancing glucose uptake and insulin secretion.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that terpenes, tannin, flavonoids, saponin, and alkaloids are important bioactive constituents for anti-diabetic activity. The mechanistic approach on alpha-glucosidase and alpha-amylase, hypolipidemic activity, and AR inhibitory action clear-cut explain the therapeutic applicability of these bioactive compounds in disease. Plants that contain these bioactive compounds can be good drug candidates for future research on diabetes treatment.

Salidroside in the Treatment of NAFLD/NASH

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the commonest reason for chronic liver diseases in the world and is commonly related to the hepatic manifestation of the metabolic syndrome. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a deteriorating form of NAFLD, which can eventually develop into fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. The reason for NAFLD/NASH development is complicated, such as liver lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, inflammatory response, apoptosis and autophagy, liver fibrosis and gut microbiota. Apart from bariatric surgery and lifestyle changes, officially approved drug therapy for NAFLD/NASH treatment is lacking. Salidroside (SDS) is a phenolic compound extensively distributed in the tubers of Rhodiola plants, which possesses many significant biological activities. This review summarized the related targets regulated by SDS in treating NAFLD/NASH. It is indicated that SDS could improve the status of NAFLD/NASH by ameliorating abnormal lipid metabolism, inhibiting oxidative stress, regulating apoptosis and autophagy, reducing inflammatory response, alleviating fibrosis and regulating gut microbiota. In conclusion, although the multiple bioactivities of SDS have been confirmed, the clinical data are inadequate and need to become the focus of attention in the later study.

Metabolites extracted from microorganisms as potential inhibitors of glycosidases (α-glucosidase and α-amylase): A review

α-Glucosidase and α-amylase are the two main glycosidases that participate in the metabolism of carbohydrates. Inhibitors of these two enzymes are considered an important medical treatment for carbohydrate uptake disorders, such as diabetes and obesity. Microbes are an important source of constituents that have the potential to inhibit glycosidases and can be used as sources of new drugs and dietary supplements. For example, the α-glucosidase inhibitor acarbose, isolated from Actinoplanes sp., has played an important role in adequately controlling type 2 diabetes, but this class of marketed drugs has many drawbacks, such as poor compliance with treatment and expense. This demonstrates the need for new microorganism-derived resources, as well as novel classes of drugs with better compliance, socioeconomic benefits, and safety. This review introduces the literature on microbial sources of α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitors, with a focus on endophytes and marine microorganisms, over the most recent 5 years. This paper also reviews the application of glycosidase inhibitors as drugs and dietary supplements. These studies will contribute to the future development of new microorganism-derived glycosidase inhibitors.

Antidiabetic Actions of Ethanol Extract of Camellia sinensis Leaf Ameliorates Insulin Secretion, Inhibits the DPP-IV Enzyme, Improves Glucose Tolerance, and Increases Active GLP-1 (7-36) Levels in High-Fat-Diet-Fed Rats

Camellia sinensis (green tea) is used in traditional medicine to treat a wide range of ailments. In the present study, the insulin-releasing and glucose-lowering effects of the ethanol extract of Camellia sinensis (EECS), along with molecular mechanism/s of action, were investigated in vitro and in vivo. The insulin secretion was measured using clonal pancreatic BRIN BD11 β cells, and mouse islets. In vitro models examined the additional glucose-lowering properties of EECS, and 3T3L1 adipocytes were used to assess glucose uptake and insulin action. Non-toxic doses of EECS increased insulin secretion in a concentration-dependent manner, and this regulatory effect was similar to that of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1). The insulin release was further enhanced when combined with isobutylmethylxanthine (IBMX), tolbutamide or 30 mM KCl, but was decreased in the presence of verapamil, diazoxide and Ca²⁺ chelation. EECS also depolarized the β-cell membrane and elevated intracellular Ca²⁺, suggesting the involvement of a K_ATP-dependent pathway. Furthermore, EECS increased glucose uptake and insulin action in 3T3-L1 cells and inhibited dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) enzyme activity, starch digestion and protein glycation in vitro. Oral administration of EECS improved glucose tolerance and plasma insulin as well as inhibited plasma DPP-IV and increased active GLP-1 (7-36) levels in high-fat-diet-fed rats. Flavonoids and other phytochemicals present in EECS could be responsible for these effects. Further research on the mechanism of action of EECS compounds could lead to the development of cost-effective treatments for type 2 diabetes.

Identification of the effective α-amylase inhibitors from Dalbergia odorifera: Virtual screening, spectroscopy, molecular docking, and molecular dynamic simulation

Inhibiting the activity of α-amylase has been considered as one efficient way to prevent and treat type 2 diabetes recently. Dalbergia odorifera, a kind of Leguminosae plant, has a positive therapeutic effect on type 2 diabetes, possibly contributing by some constituents that can inhibit the activity of α-amylase. In this study, we found that eriodictyol was one potential constituent through virtual screening. The interaction mode between eriodictyol and α-amylase was elucidated by molecular docking, multi-spectroscopic analysis, and molecular dynamic simulation. The results revealed that eriodictyol quenched the intrinsic fluorescence of α-amylase, and the quenching mode was static quenching. Eriodictyol could spontaneously interact with α-amylase, mostly stabilized and influenced by the hydrophobic interaction, while the binding sites (n) was 1.13 ± 0.07 and binding constant (K_b) was (1.43 ± 0.14) × 10⁵ at 310 K, respectively. In addition, FT-IR and CD had been applied to identify that eriodictyol can trigger the conformational change of α-amylase. Taken together, the results provided some experimental data for developing new α-amylase inhibitors from Dalbergia odorifera, which may further prevent and treat diabetes and diabetes complications.

Effect of herbal formulation on glimepiride pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in nicotinamide-streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

BACKGROUND

Traditional medicinal herbs are widely consumed in developing countries to treat diabetes as they are perceived to be safer, less expensive, and have fewer side effects as compared to the conventional medicines. Diabecon (DB), Himalaya Herbal Healthcare, India is herbal over-the-counter formulation which contains several herbs that are reported in the traditional texts for the treatment of diabetes. The majority of these herbs have been investigated and found to interfere with the cytochrome pathway. The most common oral antihyperglycemic drug used today in clinical practice is Glimepiride (GP).The CYP2C9 enzyme is mainly responsible for the metabolism of GP. Herein we hypothesize that the co-administration of GP with DB may result in possible Herb-Drug Interactions (HDIs) as DB has the potential to significantly inhibit the CYP2C9 enzyme.

OBJECTIVE

In the current study, the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions of GP (0.82 mg/kg) with DB (110.95 mg/kg) was investigated in diabetes induced (Nicotinamide-STZ) rats by co-administering both drugs orally for 21 days.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For the study of the HDI, Bioanalytical RP-HPLC/PDA method for quantifying GP in plasma of rats was developed and validated as per US-FDA guidelines. In vivo pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters were studied on day 1 and day 21 post administration.

RESULTS

The RP-HPLC/PDA method was successfully employed for quantification of GP in the PK studies. The co-administration of GP and DB in diabetic rats resulted in beneficial pharmacodynamic interactions, but there were no notable changes in the pharmacokinetic parameters of GP.

CONCLUSION

This current investigation in an animal model suggests that co-administration of GP and DB may have significant therapeutic benefits in the treatment of diabetes; however, additional research, randomized clinical trials or case studies in humans, is needed.

Mucuna pruriens seeds extract boosts growth, immunity, testicular histology, and expression of immune-related genes of mono-sex Nile tilapia (Oreochromisniloticus)

Nutraceuticals have received increased attention in sustainable aquaculture. Consequently, the present study aimed to evaluate the dietary effects of Mucuna pruriens (MP) seed extract on growth performance, immune status, hepatic function, biochemical profiles, gonadal histology, and expression of immune-related genes in mono-sex Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Fish were allocated into four groups and received MP at rates of 0 (control), 2, 4, and 6 g/kg diet, respectively, for 90 days. The results revealed that MP significantly (P<0.05) modulated growth performance (specific growth rate, final length, and length gain rate, body mass gain, and feed conversion ratio), lysozyme activity, and liver enzymes (AST, ALT). However, a non-significant effect on nitric oxide (NO) or immunoglobulin M (IgM) levels was detected, whereas the dietary inclusion of MP had a hypoglycemic effect. In terms of plasma globulin, albumin, globulin/albumin ratio, and cortisol, the MP receiving groups showed insignificant difference (P<0.05) when compared to controls, except for the 2 g MP-supplemented group. The lower inclusion concentration of MP (2 g/kg diet) demonstrated the best result (P < 0.05) for gonadosomatic index (GSI) and plasma testosterone level that was consistent with the histological findings reflecting an improvement in the testicular development compared with the control group. Expressions of complement component (C5) and interleukin 1-β (IL-1β) genes were significantly up-regulated in MP receiving groups. In conclusion, M. pruriens can be used as a safe natural economic feed additive and a low inclusion level of 2 g/kg diet is recommended to improve growth, enhance immunity, maintain liver functioning, improve testicular development, and to modulate immune-related genes in the mono-sex O. niloticus.

Multimode Assessment of Commercial Polyherbal Formulation: an In Vitro and In Silico Approach

Antidiabetic polyherbal formulations (APH) are used in management of diabetes mellitus (DM). High glucose levels in DM are related to oxidative stress leading to its associated complications. Therefore, assessing antioxidant activity of various APH might unveil an antioxidant-rich formulation for management of DM and its associated complications. Subsequently selecting an antioxidant assessment method is a challenging aspect, considering various in vitro assays working with diverse mechanism of action. Therefore, present study aims to validate the sensitivity/capacity of different antioxidant assay, thereby assessing the antioxidant potential of 9-APH. Obtained results revealed the ABTS·⁺ values were higher compared to DPPH⁺ assay. I-9-HAE (DPPH⁺: IC₅₀ 53.31 µg/ml), NK-HAE (ABTS·⁺: IC₅₀ 2.71 µg/ml), and MN-HAE (FRAP and TAC) exhibited highest antioxidant capacity. A significant correlation was obtained between TPC-DPPH⁺ (r²: 0.8187****). Furthermore, three APH with better antiradical potential was chosen for various in vitro and in silico method, for validating scientific antidiabetic propensities. Among the tested extracts, I-9-HAE (α-amylase inhibition: IC₅₀ 831.84 µg/ml) and MN-HAE (α-glucosidase inhibition: IC₅₀ 558.64 µg/ml and antiglycation: IC₅₀ 883.74 µg/ml) have showed highest antihyperglycemic and antiglycation properties. Finally, the secondary-metabolites of selected APH were screened through literature search, Lipinski rule, ADMET, and ProTox-II. Subsequently, in molecular docking for the selected 9 secondary metabolites, highest binding affinity was observed in apigenin-7-glucuronide for DPPiv (- 9.6), GLP-1 (- 8.8), NADPH (- 8.7), and HSA (- 9.4). Thus, obtained result proposes synergistic interaction with high antioxidant potential of the selected 3-APH and can be considered an alternative for management of DM, where multiple secondary metabolites exert holistic biological effects. Furthermore, our study also provides data on sensitivity/capacity of different in vitro antioxidant assays.

Stilbenes from the leaves of Cajanus cajan and their in vitro anti-inflammatory activities

Eighteen stilbenes (1-18), including six previously undescribed ones (1-6), with diverse modification patterns were isolated from the leaves of edible and medicinal plant Cajanus cajan. Among the new isolates, compounds 1-3 were initially obtained as three racemic mixtures, which were further resolved into three pairs of optically pure enantiomers, respectively, by chiral HPLC. Besides, compounds 8, 10, 11, and 18 were obtained from C. cajan for the first time. The chemical structures and absolute configurations of the new stilbenes were elucidated unambiguously on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analyses, single crystal X-ray crystallographic study, and quantum chemical electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. In addition, the in vitro anti-inflammatory activities of all isolated stilbenes were evaluated. Compounds 2, 9, 10, 11, and 14 exerted moderate suppression of nitric oxide (NO) secretion in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW264.7 cells without exhibiting substantial cytotoxicity.

Bioprospecting for Anti-COVID-19 Interventions From African Medicinal Plants: A Review

The emergence of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that emanated from Wuhan in China in 2019 has become a global concern. The current situation warrants ethnomedicinal drug discovery and development for delivery of phytomedicines with potential for the treatment of COVID-19. The aim of this review is to provide a detailed evaluation of available information on plant species used in African traditional medicines with antiviral, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and COVID-19 symptoms relieving effects. Literature from scientific databases such as Scopus, PubMed, Google scholar, African Journals OnLine (AJOL), Science Direct, and Web of Science were used for this review. A total of 35 of the 38 reviewed plants demonstrated a wide range of antiviral activities. Bryophyllum pinnatum, Aframomum melegueta, Garcinia kola, Sphenocentrum jollyanum, Adansonia digitata, Sutherlandia frutescens, Hibiscus sabdariffa, Moringa oleifera, and Nigella sativa possess a combination of antiviral, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and COVID-19 symptoms relieving activities. Nine, 13, and 10 of the plants representing 23.7%, 34.2%, and 26.3% of the plants studied had antiviral activity with 3 other activities, antiviral activity with 2 other activities, and antiviral with one pharmacological activity alone, respectively. The plants studied were reported to be relatively safe at the subchronic toxicity level, except for 2. The study provides baseline information on the pharmacological activities, toxicity, and chemical components of 9 African medicinal plants with antiviral, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and symptoms relieving activities, thereby making the plants candidates for further investigation for effectiveness against COVID-19.

Pharmacological Potential of Avicennia alba Leaf Extract: An Experimental Analysis Focusing on Antidiabetic, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, and Antidiarrheal Activity

Avicennia alba is a mangrove plant that is extensively used to treat severe health issues. This focus of this study was to investigate the antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antidiarrheal activities of methanolic extract of A. alba leaves in Swiss albino mouse model. The antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antidiarrheal activities of the leaf extract were performed using alloxan-monohydrate, carrageenan-induced paw edema, acetic acid-induced writhing test and the hot plate method, and castor oil-induced method, respectively. The extract was used at doses ranging from 200 to 500 mg/kg to conduct the investigation. Leaf extract at 400 and 500 mg/kg showed potent antidiabetic activity in alloxan-induced diabetic mice. Advanced research is needed to control blood glucose levels and carrageenan paw edema-based anti-inflammatory effects. Both tests showed statistically significant result in a dose-dependent manner. The maximum dose (500 mg/kg) demonstrated potent analgesic activity in both writhing test and hot plate method. The plant extract also showed significant antidiarrheal activity at 400 and 500 mg/kg in experimental mice. However, more research is needed to explore the possible mechanisms and isolate the compounds associated with these bioactivities from the leaf extract of A. alba.

In Vitro Antioxidant and Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibition Activity of Polygonatum verticillatum of Karnali, Nepal

Background:

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that has become a major health issue in modern era due to the long-term health consequences. α-amylase and α-glucosidase are the key enzymes involved in the digestion of starchy foods, and the inhibition of these enzymes is regarded as a postprandial hyperglycemia control strategy.

Objective:

The primary goal of this work is to examine the antioxidant activity as well as α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of Polygonatum verticillatum rhizomes via in vitro test.

Method:

The in vitro α-glucosidase inhibition activity was performed using p-nitrophenyl α-D¬-glucopyranoside (PNPG) substrate. 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assay was performed to estimate the antioxidant activity.

Results:

The in vitro -glucosidase inhibitory activity of Polygonatum verticillatum was investigated for the very first time. Of the three fractions and a crude extract, the ethyl acetate (EA) fraction disclosed potent inhibition activity against α-glucosidase enzyme with an IC50 value of 22.3 ± 0.1 μg/mL. Likewise, the IC50 values for dichloromethane (DCM) fraction and the crude extract against α-glucosidase were reported 34 ± 0.1 μg/mL, and 402.2 ± 0.2 μg/mL, respectively. Similarly, the EA fraction, crude extract, and DCM fraction disclosed promising antioxidant activity with IC50 55 ± 0.3 μg/mL, 171.5 ± 0.6 μg/mL, and 164.1 ± 3.4 μg/mL, respectively.

Conclusion:

These findings concluded that among the crude extract and fractions of Polygonatum verticillatum of Nepalese origin, the EA fraction constituted a potent α-glucosidase inhibiting and antioxidant agent. Further research is required to expose the inhibiting compounds.