Immunomodulation by ethanolic extract of Boerhaavia diffusa roots

The genus Dioscorea L. (Dioscoreaceae), a review of traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicity

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The genus Dioscorea, a member of the Dioscoreaceae family, comprises approximately 600 species and is widely distributed across temperate and tropical regions such as Asia, South Africa, and North America. The traditional medicinal uses of Dioscorea have been documented in Asian and African pharmacological systems. In Asia, this genus is traditionally used to treat respiratory illnesses, rheumatism, diabetes, diarrhea, dysentery, and other conditions. In Africa, this genus has been used to treat human immunodeficiency virus and ring worms. However, the traditional medicinal practices in North America rarely mention the use of this genus.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this review is to comprehensively review the genus Dioscorea, focusing on its traditional uses, phytochemical constituents, pharmacological activities, and potential toxicities. The research also aims to highlight the valuable bioactive compounds within Dioscorea and emphasize the need for further investigations into acute and chronic toxicity, activity mechanisms, molecular markers, and other relevant factors to contribute to the discovery of novel pharmaceuticals.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A search for available information on Dioscorea was conducted using scientific databases, including PubMed, ISI-WOS, Scopus, and Google Scholar, as well as recent academic publications from reputable publishers and other literature sources. The search was not limited by language and spanned the literature published between 1950 and 2022.

RESULTS

This article provides a comprehensive review of the Dioscorea genus, focusing on its traditional uses, phytochemical constituents, pharmacological activities, and potential toxicities. Extensive research has been conducted on this genus, resulting in the isolation and examination of over 1000 compounds, including steroids, terpenoids, and flavonoids, to determine their biological activities. These activities include anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic effects. However, some studies have indicated the potential toxicity of high doses of Dioscorea, highlighting the need for further investigations to assess the safety of this genus. Additionally, this review explores potential avenues for future research and discusses the challenges associated with a comprehensive understanding of the Dioscorea genus.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the existing literature, it can be concluded that Dioscorea is a valuable source of bioactive compounds that have the potential to treat various disorders. Future research should prioritize the investigation of acute and chronic toxicity, activity mechanisms, molecular markers, and other relevant factors. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the Dioscorea genus, emphasizing its potential to enable a deeper exploration of the biological activity mechanisms of these plants and contribute to the discovery of novel pharmaceuticals.

Multifunctional Role of Phytochemicals Derived from Boerhaavia diffusa L. in Human Health, Ailments and Therapy

Background:

The whole plant of Boerhaavia diffusa L. (BD) has wide ethnomedicinal and ethnopharmacological applications. It is a versatile medicinal herb, with tremendous antioxidant potential, used commonly in Asian and African countries for a variety of Ayurvedic formulations as a “Rasayan” or Rejuvenator.

Objective:

This paper is aimed at providing an extensive study of the phytochemistry and pharmacology of BD to support its ethnopharmacological uses and the effectiveness of different active constituents present in BD. We believe that this paper will provide an insight into various trends and advances for future studies on BD.

Methods:

All relevant information was collected from worldwide accepted search engines and databases, i.e. Google, Pub Med, Elsevier, Science Direct and Web of Science, etc.

Results:

Based on the study conducted for this paper, it was found that BD is a rich source of several phytochemicals that are extracted from its roots and aerial parts. Among them, secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, isoflavonoids, rotenoids, glycosides, steroids, and lignans are the most important ones. The crude extract and the isolated phytochemicals are reported to have impressive bioactivities such as immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective, renoprotective, cardioprotective, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antifertility, antioxidant, anticancer, and antimicrobial properties.

Conclusion:

The immense therapeutic potential of BD has been explored in many experiments, which validates its traditional uses. However, reports from clinical trials and the specific interaction of isolated phytoconstituents with microbial toxins or molecular markers of pathogenesis are meager. Therefore, further studies can be undertaken to elucidate the molecular cross-talk between the major therapeutic components with pathological biomolecules.

Evaluation of Nutritional Substances and Investigation of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Potentials of Boerhavia diffusa with in Silico Molecular Docking

Boerhavia diffusa L. Nyctanginaceae (B. diffusa) is a medicinal herb commonly considered as a weed. The exploration of phytochemicals in different parts of B. diffusa with different solvents will create awareness, along with the suitable solvent and method for extraction of pharmaceutical compounds. Hence, the present study focuses on phytochemical analysis of B. diffusa leaves, stems, and roots in various solvents with hot and cold extraction. The decoctions performed well in most of the qualitative and quantitative tests, along with the DPPH assay. The aqueous extract showed a good result in the FRAP assay and ABTS assay. In the antimicrobial test, the B. diffusa root ethanol extract inhibited the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus with zones of inhibition of about 8 mm and 20 mm at 200 µg concentration, respectively. Using a molecular docking approach, the top four ranked molecules from the crude extract of B. diffusa profiled from GC–MS spectroscopy in terms of growth inhibition of the pathogenic bacterium P. aeruginosa were selected; among them, 2-(1,2 dihydroxyethyl)-5-[[2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2-(4,8,12-trimethyltridecyl)-3,4-dihydrochromen-6-yl]oxy]oxolane-3,4-diol exhibited the minimum binding score, revealing high affinity in complex. B. diffusa is highly nutritious, and the maceration and decoction extracts were similar except for the chloroform extract that was found to be weak.

Phytochemistry and polypharmacology of cleome species: A comprehensive Ethnopharmacological review of the medicinal plants

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cleome species in particular (C. gynandra Linn, C. viscosa Linn, C. rutidosperma DC, C. felina Linn.), commonly known as spider flowers, belong to the genus of flowering plants in Cleomaceae family. Found primarily in the African countries (Kenya, Tanzania, Egypt, South Africa, and Nigeria), Asian countries (India and Afghanistan), European countries (Italy), and also in other countries like Brazil and Austria. These plants are commonly cultivated as a vegetable crop for their nutritional benefits, and the leaves are widely consumed for their health-promoting effects. The different parts of the plants, such as leaves, seeds, flowers, and roots, are used to treat acute and chronic inflammatory disorders, hepatotoxicity, malaria, fungal diseases, and cancer.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Detailed investigations in underlining the molecular mechanisms and their wide variety of effects in treating various diseases remain ambiguous. The review focuses on an in-depth discussion of studies targeting phytochemistry and polypharmacology. Thus, the review aims to recapitulate the therapeutic potential of the components of Cleome involved in the treatment of a wide variety of ailments from ancient times were collected and presented along with strategies aiming for future studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The information provided is collected from several scientific databases (PubMed, Elsevier, ScienceDirect) and traditional medicine books, and other professional websites.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Investigations and current evidence revealed that the different chemical constituents present in cleome species possess various health-promoting effects along with the aerial parts showing promising traditional uses in traditional healing and culinary. An explorative survey in the current review highlights the traditional healing effects along with a broad scope of studies that can be performed in the future.

Safety assessment and attenuation of cisplatin induced nephrotoxicity by tuberous roots of Boerhaavia diffusa

Cisplatin (Cis-diaminedichloroplatinum II) is a chemotherapeutic agent having well documented adverse effect as nephrotoxicity. This study was designed to evaluate the nephroprotective role of Boerhaavia diffusa in cisplatin-induced acute kidney injury. Wistar rats (n = 6) were allocated into six groups constituting normal control, cisplatin-induced, Boerhaavia diffusa root extract in doses 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg and Boerhaavia diffusa per se group, administered orally for a period of ten days. Intraperitoneal injection of cisplatin was administered on day 7, to all groups except normal control and Boerhaavia diffusa per se group. On day 10, cisplatin resulted in substantial nephrotoxicity in Wistar rats with significant (p < 0.001) elevation in serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen, decline in the concentrations of reduced glutathione and superoxide dismutase, elevation in TNF-α level in renal tissues. Boerhaavia diffusa at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight significantly (p < 0.001) ameliorates increased in serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, oxidative stress and inflammatory markers. In parallel to this, it also exhibits antiapoptotic activity through the reduction of active caspase-3 expression in kidneys. Findings indicate that Boerhaavia diffusa is effective in mitigating cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and thus, for this the acute and sub-acute toxicity studies conducted to evaluate the safety profile of Boerhaavia diffusa. The no-observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) of tuberous roots of Boerhaavia diffusa root extract was 1000 mg/kg.

Advances in Boerhaavia diffusa hairy root technology: a valuable pursuit for identifying strain sensitivity and up-scaling factors to refine metabolite yield and bioactivity potentials

The present study reports the Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated hairy root induction in of an ethno-medicinally significant herb-Boerhaavia diffusa L., for elucidating the underlying competence regarding its biosynthetic (i.e. boeravinone B and eupalitin) and bioactivity (antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory) potentials. Host plant-specific receptiveness towards A. rhizogenes strains and disparity in compatibility threshold of leaf and nodal explants were evident. Only leaf explants responded, attaining hairy root induction with the ATCC 15834 followed by A4 and SA79 strains in reducing order of transformation efficiency. The growth behaviours differed amongst independent rhizoclones, and two clones of A4 (RBH) and ATCC 15834 (RBT8) origin demonstrated higher growth potentials. Polymerase chain reaction amplification of rol genes confirmed their transformed nature. Optimization of the appropriate solvent and reverse phase high-performance liquid chromatography parameters relating to the targeted metabolite production in the selected RBH and RBT8 clones revealed higher accumulation of eupalitin with the RBH clone having the best result of 1.44 times greater yield over the control root. Compared to the selected rhizoclones, the control roots however showed higher boeravinone B content. Devising a modified "stirred-tank" reactor through equipping with marine impellers and ring spargers facilitated high-density RBH root biomass yield with 6.1-fold and 1.15-fold yield increment of the boeravinone B and eupalitin respectively compared to shake-flask cultures. Considering the control roots, the RBH clone revealed analogous antioxidant/antibacterial activities with improved anti-inflammatory potential. The hairy root mediated higher production of boeravinone B and eupalitin could be achieved for the first time in bioreactor.

Anti-inflammatory potential of a lipid-based formulation of a rotenoid-rich fraction prepared from Boerhavia diffusa

CONTEXT

Boerhavia diffusa L. (Nyctaginaceae) roots are used in Ayurveda for treating inflammatory diseases. Generally poor oral bioavailability is a major problem associated with herbal drugs.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a phospholipid complex of rotenoid-rich fraction (RRF) and evaluate its in vivo anti-inflammatory activity and pharmacokinetic study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

RRF was prepared from a 70% ethanol extract of B. diffusa roots. This RRF was complexed with phosphatidylcholine by refluxing in 70% ethanol. In vivo anti-inflammatory activity of RRF-PC and RRF was determined using the carrageenan-induced rat paw edema method, at a dose equivalent to 100 mg/kg p.o. of RRF. Edema volume was calculated at 3 and 5 h. The plasma concentration of boeravinone B was estimated in rats at a same dose level. Blood samples were collected at 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 24, and 36 h.

RESULTS

(1)H and (31)P NMR spectra of RRF-PC showed up-field shift of protons of the (+)N(CH3)3 group (3.37 → 3.23) and the phosphorus atom (-1.26 → -1.57 ppm), respectively, which confirmed phospholipid complex formation between phosphatidylcholine [PO4 and (+)N(CH3)3 groups] and phytoconstituents by hydrogen bonding. The RRF-PC showed significantly enhanced in vivo anti-inflammatory activity (64%) as compared with RRF (48%) and ibuprofen (50%) at 5 h (p < 0.001). Furthermore, detected plasma concentration of boeravinone B was two times higher in RRF-PC (75 ng/mL) as compared with RRF (40 ng/mL).

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated an increased anti-inflammatory potential and higher plasma level of boeravinone B in lipid-based formulation (RRF-PC) as compared with RRF.

Phytochemical screening and in vitro bioactivities of the extracts of aerial part of Boerhavia diffusa Linn

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the bioactivities of crude n-hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of aerial part of Boerhavia diffusa Linn. (B. diffusa) and its phytochemical analysis.

METHODS

The identification of phytoconstituents and assay of antioxidant, thrombolytic, cytotoxic, antimicrobial activities were conducted using specific standard in vitro procedures.

RESULTS

The results showed that the plant extracts were a rich source of phytoconstituents. Methanol extract showed higher antioxidant, thrombolytic activity and less cytotoxic activity than those of n-hexane and ethyl acetate extracts of B. diffusa. Among the bioactivities, antioxidant activity was the most notable compared to the positive control and thus could be a potential rich source of natural antioxidant. In case of antimicrobial screening, crude extracts of the plant showed remarkable antibacterial activity against tested microorganisms. All the extracts showed significant inhibitory activity against Candida albicuns, at a concentration of 1000 µg/disc.

CONCLUSIONS

The present findings suggest that, the plant widely available in Bangladesh, could be a prominent source of medicinally important natural compounds.

Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and immunostimulatory effects of Luehea divaricata Mart. & Zucc. (Malvaceae) bark

Luehea divaricata (Malvaceae) is a plant widely used for treatment of various inflammatory and infectious conditions; however few reports discuss its biological properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects as well as the macrophage activity in mice treated with the hydroalcoholic crude extract of L. divaricata(CLD). Thin layer chromatography revealed presence of epicathequin, stigmasterol, lupeol and α,β-amyrin in the extract. To evaluate the anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities, animals were subjected to paw edema induced by carrageenan test, writhing, formalin and capsaicin tests. Immunomodulatory activity was evaluated by adhesion and phagocytic capacity, lysosomal volume, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by peritoneal macrophages, after daily treatment with CLD for 15 days. CLD promoted reduction in paw edema (36.8% and 50.2%; p<0.05 at doses of 100 and 300 mg/kg, respectively), inhibited writhing behavior at the higher dose (64.4%, p<0.05), reduced formalin reactivity (81.2% and 91.6% at doses of 100 and 300 mg/kg, respectively, p<0.05), and reduced capsaicin reactivity by 63.9% (300 mg/kg). CLD (200 mg• kg-1• day-1) increased phagocytosis capacity of macrophages (~3 fold, p<0.05), neutral red uptake (~50%, p<0.001), and ROS production (~90%, p<0.001). These data suggest that CLD possesses anti-inflammatory, analgesic and immunostimulatory properties.

Quantitative analysis of boeravinones in the roots of Boerhaavia Diffusa by UPLC/PDA

INTRODUCTION

Boerhaavia diffusa is a perennial herb belonging to Nyctaginaceae. Various classes of chemical constituents such as phenolics (boeravinones), terpenoids and organic acids have been reported in B. diffusa roots. As boeravinones have been proposed as putative active constituents for the anti-cancer, spasmolytic and anti-inflammatory activities exhibited by B. diffusa extracts, it is worthwhile developing and validating an ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) method for analysis of boeravinones in B. diffusa roots.

OBJECTIVE

To develop and validate a simple, accurate, robust and rapid UPLC analytical method for quality control of B. diffusa roots.

METHODS

Samples for analysis were prepared by refluxing powdered root material with methanol for 2 h. The extracts were concentrated, dried and stored at -20°C until their use. A UPLC with photodiode array (PDA) method was developed and validated for the quantification of boeravinones in the roots of B. diffusa. The separation of boeravinones was achieved using a BEH Shield C18 -column (2.1 × 100 mm, 1.7 µm) with gradient elution of methanol and water (0.1% acetic acid), at a flow rate of 0.4 mL/min and detection was carried out at λmax 273 nm.

RESULTS

The UPLC method developed showed good linearity (r(2)  ≥ 0.9999), accuracy and precision.

CONCLUSION

The UPLC method developed provided a selective, sensitive and rapid analytical method for the quantification of boeravinones in B. diffusa roots. All the validation parameters were found to be within the permissible limits as per International Conference on Harmonisation guidelines.

Review on Medicinal Uses, Pharmacological, Phytochemistry and Immunomodulatory Activity of Plants

Since ancient times, plants have been an exemplary source of medicine. Researchers have discovered some important compounds from plants. The present work constitutes a review of the medicinal plants whose immunomodulant activity has been proven. We performed PUBMED, EMBASE, Google scholar searches for research papers of medicinal plants having immunomodulant activity. Medicinal plants used by traditional physicians or reported as having immunomodulant activity include Acacia concocinna, Camellia sinensis, Lawsonia inermis Linn, Piper longum Linn, Gelidium amansii, Petroselinum crispum, Plantago major and Allium sativum. Immunomodulant activities of some of these medicinal plants have been investigated. The medicinal plants documented have immunomodulant activity and should be further investigated via clinical trial.

Preclinical development of a bridging therapy for radiation casualties: appropriate for high risk personnel

The authors demonstrate the efficacy of a bridging therapy in a preclinical animal model that allows the lymphohematopoietic system of severely immunocompromised individuals exposed to acute, high-dose ionizing irradiation to recover and to survive. CD2F1 mice were irradiated acutely with high doses causing severe, potentially fatal hematopoietic or gastrointestinal injuries and then transfused intravenously with progenitor-enriched, whole blood, or peripheral blood mononuclear cells from mice injected with tocopherol succinate- and AMD3100- (a chemokine receptor anatogonist used to improve the yield of mobilized progenitors). Survival of these mice over a 30-d period was used as the primary measured endpoint of therapeutic effectiveness. The authors demonstrate that tocopherol succinate and AMD3100 mobilize progenitors into peripheral circulation and that the infusion of mobilized progenitor enriched blood or mononuclear cells acts as a bridging therapy for lymphohematopoietic system recovery in mice exposed to whole-body ionizing irradiation. The results demonstrate that infusion of whole blood or blood mononuclear cells from tocopherol succinate (TS)- and AMD3100-injected mice improved the survival of mice receiving high radiation doses significantly. The efficacy of TS-injected donor mice blood or mononuclear cells was comparable to that of blood or cells obtained from mice injected with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor. Donor origin-mobilized progenitors were found to localize in various tissues. The authors suggest that tocopherol succinate is an optimal agent for mobilizing progenitors with significant therapeutic potential. The extent of progenitor mobilization that tocopherol succinate elicits in experimental mice is comparable quantitatively to clinically used drugs such as granulocyte-colony stimulating factor and AMD3100. Therefore, it is proposed that tocopherol succinate be considered for further translational development and ultimately for use in humans.

Phytochemical, therapeutic, and ethnopharmacological overview for a traditionally important herb: Boerhavia diffusa Linn

Boerhavia diffusa (BD) is a plant of rasayana category as per ayurvedic claims. It is reported to possess antiaging, disease prevention, and life strengthening activities which hold enormous influence in disease burden and affordability/availability of healthcare in the world. Objective. This paper has been compiled to comment on the studies reported for BD to highlight its chemical and therapeutic potential along with its ethnopharmacological considerations. Methods. In the present paper, a detailed account of chemical constituents and pharmacological activities has been presented. All the findings were correlated with modern pharmacological activities to appraise the value of BD. Results. Chemical analysis of BD gives a wide variety of chemical constituents, namely, rotenoids, flavonoids, xanthones, purine nucleoside, lignans, and steroids. Various ethnopharmacological reports emphasize its role in disorders of reproductive system, gastrointestinal system, respiratory system, urinary system, hepatic system/jaundice, cardiovascular system, and cancer. Conclusions. The studies on the therapeutic activities of BD range from studies on crude extracts to isolated compounds; however some of the studies require sophistication and validated results. BD is a plant of enormous importance in the purview of its chemical and therapeutic properties.

Immunomodulatory and therapeutic potentials of herbal, traditional/indigenous and ethnoveterinary medicines

Herbs/Botanical plants are considered as God's gift to human beings in the form of natural medicines, like the one well known "Sanjeevani booti" described in Hindu Mythology. The traditional and ethno-veterinary practices have been in use for centuries, transferring the knowledge from generation to generation and they are accessible, easy to prepare and administer, with little or no cost at all. Even though the modern developments in therapeutic field brought about a rapid decline in traditional medicine, the plant-based remedies are still having a crucial role as potential source of therapeutic aids in health systems all over the world for both humans and animals. Among the 21,000 medicinal plants listed by the World Health Organization (WHO), 2500 species are native to India, which stands first in the production of medicinal herbs. This innumerable treasure of medicinal herbs brings India the distinction of 'the botanical garden of the world'. Nowadays immune-based therapies are gaining more importance than monovalent approaches which are having limited benefits. Apart from the actions like treating diseases, control of ecto- and endo-parasites, fertility enhancement, bone setting and poor mothering management, an array of herbal medicines have been reported which are having immunomodulatory effects like modulation of cytokine secretion, histamine release, immunoglobulin secretion, class switching, cellular co-receptor expression, lymphocyte expression, phagocytosis and so on. The present article describes in brief few of these important ones viz., ashwagandha, amla, tulsi, arjuna, aloe vera, garlic, turmeric, ginger, shatavari, neem, guduchi, kiwifruit, tut, kamala, palashlata, kokilaksha etc. being used for human and animal health benefits.

Rotenoids from Boerhaavia diffusa as potential anti-inflammatory agents

Five new (2, 3, 5, 7, and 9) and four known rotenoids (1, 4, 6, and 8) were isolated from a methanol extract of Boerhaavia diffusa roots. The structures of the new rotenoids were elucidated by spectroscopic data interpretation. The 70% ethanol extract, a rotenoid-rich fraction, and all isolated rotenoids were evaluated for their COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitory activities. Among the rotenoids tested, compound 7 showed the most potent COX-1 and COX-2 inhibition, with IC₅₀ values of 21.7 ± 0.5 and 25.5 ± 0.6 μM, respectively. Boeravinone B (6) exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity (56.6% at 50 mg/kg) when evaluated in an in vivo carrageenan-induced rat paw model.

Alpha-tocopherol succinate-mobilized progenitors improve intestinal integrity after whole body irradiation

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to elucidate the action of α-tocopherol succinate (TS)- and AMD3100-mobilized progenitors in mitigating radiation-induced injuries.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

CD2F1 mice were exposed to a high dose of radiation and then transfused intravenously with 5 million peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from TS- and AMD3100-injected mice after irradiation. Intestinal and splenic tissues were harvested after irradiation and cells of those tissues were analyzed for markers of apoptosis and mitosis. Bacterial translocation from gut to heart, spleen, and liver in TS-treated and irradiated mice was evaluated by bacterial culture.

RESULTS

We observed that the infusion of PBMC from TS- and AMD3100-injected mice significantly inhibited apoptosis, increased cell proliferation in the analyzed tissues of recipient mice, and inhibited bacterial translocation to various organs compared to mice receiving cells from vehicle-mobilized cells. This study further supports our contention that the infusion of TS-mobilized progenitor-containing PBMC acts as a bridging therapy by inhibiting radiation-induced apoptosis, enhancing cell proliferation, and inhibiting bacterial translocation in irradiated mice.

CONCLUSIONS

We suggest that this novel bridging therapeutic approach that involves the infusion of TS-mobilized hematopoietic progenitors following acute radiation injury might be applicable to humans as well.

α-Tocopherol succinate- and AMD3100-mobilized progenitors mitigate radiation-induced gastrointestinal injury in mice

The goal of this study was to elucidate the role of α-tocopherol succinate (TS)- and AMD3100-mobilized progenitors in mitigating the ionizing-radiation-induced gastrointestinal syndrome in mice. We demonstrate the efficacy of a bridging therapy that will allow the lymphohematopoietic system of severely immunocompromised victims exposed to ionizing radiation to recover from high doses of radiation. CD2F1 mice were irradiated with a high dose of radiation causing gastrointestinal syndrome (11 Gy, cobalt-60 γ-radiation) and then transfused intravenously (retro-orbital sinus) with whole blood or peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from TS- and AMD3100-injected mice 2, 24, or 48 hours post irradiation and monitored for 30-day survival. Jejunum sections were analyzed for tissue area, surviving crypts, villi, mitotic figures, and basal lamina enterocytes. Our results demonstrate that infusion of whole blood or PBMC from TS- and AMD3100-injected mice significantly improved survival of mice receiving a high dose of radiation. Histopathology and immunostaining of jejunum from irradiated and TS- and AMD3100-mobilized PBMC-transfused mice reveal significant protection of gastrointestinal tissue from radiation injury. We demonstrate that TS and AMD3100 mobilize progenitors into peripheral circulation and that the infusion of mobilized progenitor-containing blood or PBMC acts as a bridging therapy for immune-system recovery in mice exposed to high, potentially fatal, doses of ionizing radiation.

Immunomodulatory effect of Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) essential oil on immune cells: mitogen-activated splenocytes and peritoneal macrophages

INTRODUCTION

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) has been traditionally used for the treatment of allergy, autoimmune and chronic inflammatory disorders. The present study aims to investigate the suppressive effects of parsley essential oil on mouse splenocytes and macrophages cells.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Parsley essential oil was harvested. It was treated on splenocytes and phytohemagglutinin (PHA) (5 μg/mL) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (10 μg/mL) activated splenocytes in different concentrations (0.01-100 μg/mL); then, proliferation was assayed by methyl tetrazolium (MTT) method. Treatment was also performed on the macrophages and LPS-stimulated macrophages (10 μg/ml) and the nitrite levels were measured using the diazotization method based on the Griess reaction and MTT assay for evaluation of the viability of the macrophages.

RESULTS

Proliferation of splenocytes in all the treated groups was suppressed. In PHA-stimulated splenocytes, the suppression was seen in all the examined concentrations (0.01-100 μg/mL), while in the unstimulated and LPS-stimulated groups suppression was relatively dose dependent and in high concentration (10 and100 μg/mL).The viability of the macrophages in all groups was the same and in the unstimulated groups; NO suppression was significant in all the concentrations but in LPS-stimulated groups, it was significant in the three higher concentrations (1, 10, and100 μg/mL).

CONCLUSION

The results of this study indicate that parsley essential oil may be able to suppress the cellular and humoral immune response. It can also suppress both NO production and the functions of macrophages as the main innate immune cells. These results may suggest that parsley essential oil is a proper suppressant for different applications.

Potent antioxidant and genoprotective effects of boeravinone G, a rotenoid isolated from Boerhaavia diffusa

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Free radicals are implicated in the aetiology of some gastrointestinal disorders such as gastric ulcer, colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. In the present study we investigated the antioxidant and genoprotective activity of some rotenoids (i.e. boeravinones) isolated from the roots of Boerhaavia diffusa, a plant used in the Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of diseases affecting the gastrointestinal tract.

METHODS/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Antioxidant activity has been evaluated using both chemical (Electron Spin Resonance spectroscopy, ESR) and Caco-2 cells-based (TBARS and ROS) assays. DNA damage was evaluated by Comet assay, while pERK(1/2) and phospho-NF-kB p65 levels were estimated by western blot. Boeravinones G, D and H significantly reduced the signal intensity of ESR induced by hydroxyl radicals, suggesting a scavenging activity. Among rotenoids tested, boeravinone G exerted the most potent effect. Boeravinone G inhibited both TBARS and ROS formation induced by Fenton's reagent, increased SOD activity and reduced H(2)O(2)-induced DNA damage. Finally, boeravinone G reduced the levels of pERK(1) and phospho-NF-kB p65 (but not of pERK(2)) increased by Fenton's reagent.

CONCLUSIONS

It is concluded that boeravinone G exhibits an extraordinary potent antioxidant activity (significant effect in the nanomolar range). The MAP kinase and NF-kB pathways seem to be involved in the antioxidant effect of boeravinone G. Boeravinone G might be considered as lead compound for the development of drugs potentially useful against those pathologies whose aetiology is related to ROS-mediated injuries.

Inhibition of Human Cervical Cancer Cell Growth by Ethanolic Extract of Boerhaavia diffusa Linn. (Punarnava) Root

In Indian traditional medicine, Boerhaavia diffusa (punarnava) roots have been widely used for the treatment of dyspepsia, jaundice, enlargement of spleen, abdominal pain and as an anti-stress agent. Pharmacological evaluation of the crude ethanolic extract of B. diffusa roots has been shown to possess antiproliferative and immunomodulatory properties. The extract of B. diffusa was studied for anti-proliferative effects on the growth of HeLa cells and for its effect on cell cycle. Bio-assays of extracts from B. diffusa root showed that a methanol : chloroform fraction (BDF 5) had an antiproliferative effect on HeLa cells. After 48 h of exposure, this fraction at a concentration of 200 μg mL⁻¹ significantly reduced cell proliferation with visible morphological changes in HeLa cells. Cell cycle analysis suggests that antiproliferative effect of BDF 5 could be due to inhibition of DNA synthesis in S-phase of cell cycle in HeLa cells, whereas no significant change in cell cycle was detected in control cells. The fraction BDF 5 caused cell death via apoptosis as evident from DNA fragmentation and caspase-9 activation. Thus the extract has potential to be evaluated in detail to assess the molecular mechanism-mediated anticancer activities of this plant.

Design and development of a stable polyherbal formulation based on the results of compatibility studies

INTRODUCTION

Ayurvedic and herbal medicinal products contain a combination of botanicals; each of these contains a number of chemical compounds that may give the anticipated activity in combination. Therefore, it is very important to analyze and evaluate the compatibility of various active constituents and markers from different medicinal plants for their possible chemical interactions with various excipients at different storage conditions during the development of a stable polyherbal formulation.

OBJECTIVE

To study chemical stability of kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata) and kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa) extract for their active markers andrographolide, kutkoside and picroside-I and to develop stable polyherbal formulation based on the incompatibility studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The compatibility study was carried out on individual ethanolic extracts of these two plants along with the commonly used excipients in the ratio of 1:1 at 40 ± 2°C and 75 ± 5% relative humidity and at a refrigeration temperature of 5 ± 1°C for initial, 7-, 15- and 30-day intervals. The analysis was carried out using the validated reverse phase-high-performance liquid chromatography methods. A stable tablet dosage form was developed based on the results of these studies.

RESULT

The study suggested that the active markers of kutki (kutkoside and picroside-I) were found to be degraded in the presence of the kalmegh extract. However, the active marker of the kalmegh extract (andrographolide) was found to be stable. Both the extracts showed excellent compatibility with all the excipients used in making this formulation. No significant decrease in the kutkoside and picroside-I content from the formulation was observed.

CONCLUSION

By separate granulation process the exposure of both the extracts can be minimized thus avoiding the degradation of active markers.

Immunomodulation property of hexane fraction of leaves of Cinnamomum tamala Linn. in rats

The leaves of Cinnamomum tamala Linn. (CT) (Lauraceae) clinically used in Ayurveda as antidiabetic and diuretic, but no reports are available towards immunomodulating property. Its hexane fraction (CTH) was orally given to rats for 10 days and delayed type of hypersensitivity (DTH), antibody production against sheep red blood cells (SRBCs), mitotic index in bone marrow cells and concanavalin A (Con A) mediated proliferation of lymphocytes were assessed. Further on 30 days treatment, change in body weight (BW), spleen weight, thymus weight, bone marrow cellularity and hematological changes were observed. It inhibited significantly the DTH response (IC(50) 1475 +/- 57.19 mg kg(-1) BW), antibody production, suppressed mitotic index in bone marrow cells along with the suppression of lymphocyte proliferation against Con A (IC(50) 63.33 +/- 1.95 microg mL(-1)). In all experiments, cyclophasphamide and dexamethasone had been used as reference drug for in vivo and in vitro studies, respectively. On 30 days treatment, the CTH (800 mg kg(-1) BW and above) significantly suppressed growth rate, increase of spleen and thymus weight and low bone marrow cellularity. In hematological examination, it inhibited total white blood cell and lymphocytes count and increased per cent of polymorphs. Thus, it could be suggested that the fraction possesses immunosuppressive property at doses, higher than 800 mg kg(-1) BW in rats.

A review of high throughput technology for the screening of natural products

High throughput screening is commonly defined as automatic testing of potential drug candidates at a rate in excess of 10,000 compounds per week. The aim of high throughput drug discovery is to test large compound collections for potentially active compounds ('hits') in order to allow further development of compounds for pre-clinical testing ('leads'). High throughput technology has emerged over the last few years as an important tool for drug discovery and lead optimisation. In this approach, the molecular diversity and range of biological properties displayed by secondary metabolites constitutes a challenge to combinatorial strategies for natural products synthesis and derivatization. This article reviews the approach of High throughput technique for the screening of natural products for drug discovery.

Immunosuppressive Activity of Semen Persicae Ethanol Extract on Specific Antibody and Cellular Response to Ovalbumin in Mice

The immunosuppressive activity of the ethanol extract of Semen Persicae (EESP) was studied with respect to specific antibody and cellular response to ovalbumin (OVA) in mice. The effects of EESP on mice splenocyte proliferation in vitro were measured. EESP significantly suppressed concanavalin A (ConA)- and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated splenocyte proliferation in vitro in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, the effects of EESP at three dose levels on the humoral and cellular immune responses in the OVA-immunized mice were examined. ICR Mice were immunized subcutaneously with OVA on day 0 and 14. Starting on the day of immunization, the mice were administered intraperitoneally with EESP at a single dose of 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 mg, and cyclosporin A (CsA, positive drug) at a single dose of 0.1 mg at intervals of 7 days. On day 28, mitogen- and OVA-induced splenocyte proliferation and OVA-specific antibody level in serum were measured. EESP significantly decreased ConA-, LPS-, and OVA-induced splenocyte proliferation in the OVA-immunized mice at the dose of 1.0 mg. Meanwhile, the OVA-specific serum IgG, IgG1, and IgG2b antibody levels in the OVA-immunized mice were markedly reduced by EESP in a dose-dependent manner. The results suggest that EESP could suppress the cellular and humoral immune response in mice, and deserve further research to be developed as immunosuppressant.

Immunosuppressive Activity of the Ethanol Extract ofSiegesbeckia orientalis on the Immune Responses to Ovalbumin in Mice

The in vitro and in vivo immunosuppressive activity of the ethanol extract of Siegesbeckia orientalis (EESO) was studied on the immune responses in mice. EESO significantly suppressed concanavalin A (Con A)- and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated splenocyte proliferation in vitro in a concentration-dependent manner. ICR Mice were immunized subcutaneously with ovalbumin (OVA) on days 0 and 14. Beginning on the day of immunization, the mice were administered intraperitoneally with EESO at a single dose of 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 mg at intervals of 7 days. On day 28, OVA-specific antibodies in serum, and mitogen- and OVA-induced splenocyte proliferation were measured. EESO significantly suppressed Con A-, LPS- and OVA-induced splenocyte proliferation in the OVA-immunized mice in a dose-dependent manner. The OVA-specific serum IgG, IgG1, and IgG2b levels in the OVA-immunized mice were also significantly reduced by EESO. Moreover, reducing effect on the IgG1 antibody of EESO at the dose of 1.0 mg was more significant than that of cyclosporin A (CsA; positive drug). The results suggest that EESO could suppress the cellular and humoral response to ovalbumin in mice, and deserve further investigations to be developed as immunosuppressant.

Immunomodulatory effects of curcumin

Curcumin (diferuloylmethane), found in the spice turmeric, exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and chemopreventive activities. However, the effect of curcumin on the immunological responses largely remains unknown. In this study we have investigated the effect of curcumin on mitogen (phytohaemagglutinin; PHA) stimulated T-cell proliferation, natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity, production of cytokines by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), nitric oxide (NO) production in mouse macrophage cells, RAW-264.7. Furthermore, we have carried out an electromobility shift assay to elucidate the mechanism of action of curcumin at DNA protein interaction level. We observed that curcumin inhibits PHA-induced T-cell proliferation, interleukin-2 production, NO generation, and lipopolysachharide-induced nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) and augments NK cell cytotoxicity. Our results suggest that curcumin most likely inhibits cell proliferation and cytokine production by inhibiting NF-kappaB target genes involved in the induction of these immune parameters.

Immunosuppressive activity of Pollen Typhae ethanol extract on the immune responses in mice

The immunosuppressive activity of the ethanol extract of Pollen Typhae (EEPT) consisting of a mixture of flavonoids, steroids and volatile oils was studied on the immune responses in mice. EEPT significantly suppressed concanavalin A (Con A)- and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated splenocyte proliferation in vitro in a concentration-dependent manner. ICR mice were immunized subcutaneously with OVA on days 0 and 14. Beginning on the day of immunization, the mice were administered intraperitoneally with EEPT at a single dose of 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 mg at intervals of 7 days for a total of five doses. On day 28, antigen-specific antibodies in serum, and mitogen- and OVA-induced splenocyte proliferation were measured. EEPT significantly suppressed Con A-, LPS- and OVA-induced splenocyte proliferation in the OVA-immunized mice in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, the OVA-specific total IgG, IgG1 and IgG2b levels in the OVA-immunized mice were significantly reduced by EEPT. The results suggest that EEPT could suppress the cellular and humoral response in mice, and deserve further researches to be developed as immunosuppressant.

Characterisation of the phenolic profile of Boerhaavia diffusa L. by HPLC-PAD-MS/MS as a tool for quality control

Phenolic acids and flavonols of nine leaf and three root samples of Boerhaavia diffusa L., collected at different locations and subjected to several drying procedures, were characterised by reversed-phase HPLC-PAD-ESI/MS for the first time. Ten phenolic compounds were identified: 3,4-dihydroxy-5-methoxycinnamoyl-rhamnoside, quercetin 3-O-rhamnosyl(1-->6)galactoside (quercetin 3-O-robinobioside), quercetin 3-O-(2"-rhamnosyl)-robinobioside, kaempferol 3-O-(2"-rhamnosyl)-robinobioside, 3,5,4'-trihydroxy-6,7-dimethoxyflavone 3-O-galactosyl(1-->2)glucoside [eupalitin 3-O-galactosyl(1-->2)glucoside], caffeoyltartaric acid, kaempferol 3-O-robinobioside, eupalitin 3-O-galactoside, quercetin and kaempferol. Quantification was achieved by HPLC-PAD and two phenolic patterns were found for the leaves, in which quercetin 3-O-robinobioside or quercetin 3-O-(2"-rhamnosyl)-robinobioside was the major compound. Caffeoyltartaric acid was only present in the root material where it represented the main phenolic constituent. The results obtained demonstrated that the geographical origin (particularly the nature of the soil), but not the drying process, influences the phenolic composition.

In vitro and in vivo immunosuppressive activity of Spica Prunellae ethanol extract on the immune responses in mice

The immunosuppressive activity of the ethanol extract of Spica Prunellae (Prunella vulgaris fruiting spikes) (EESP) consisting of a mixture of triterpenoids, flavonoids, tannins and polysaccharide was studied on the immune responses in mice. The effects of EESP on mice splenocyte proliferation in vitro were measured. EESP significantly suppressed concanavalin A (Con A)- and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated splenocyte proliferation in vitro in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, the effects of EESP at three dose levels (a single dose of 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 mg) on the humoral and cellular immune responses of mice subcutaneously immunized with ovalbumin (OVA) were examined. ICR mice were immunized subcutaneously with OVA on day 0 and 14. Starting on the day of immunization, the mice were administered subcutaneously with EESP at 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 mg at intervals of 7 days for a total of five doses. On day 28, antigen-specific antibodies in serum, mitogen- and OVA-induced splenocyte proliferation were investigated. EESP significantly suppressed Con A-, LPS- and OVA-induced splenocyte proliferation in the immunized mice in a dose-dependent manner. Total IgG, IgG1 and IgG2b levels in the immunized mice were significantly reduced by EESP. Moreover, the suppressing effects on the antibody responses to OVA in the immunized mice were dose-dependently enhanced according to the increase of EESP. The results suggest that EESP could suppress the cellular and humoral response in mice.

Immunomodulation by peptide analogs of retroviral envelope protein

The mechanism by which retroviral proteins exert their immunosuppressive influence has remained enigmatic. Early studies have demonstrated that retroviral infection suppresses cellular and humoral immune responses. A hydrophilic 26 amino acid region of the otherwise hydrophobic transmembrane envelope protein of murine and feline leukemia viruses, p15E, is conserved among the transmembrane envelope proteins of numerous animal retroviruses (e.g. murine, feline, bovine and simian) as well as in human T-cell leukemia virus, and to a lesser extent, in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We evaluated the immunomodulatory properties of various synthetic retroviral envelope peptides synthesized as overlapping fragments to this conserved sequence. We report that two small peptides inhibit human mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR), interleukin-2 (IL-2) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-alpha) production. These peptides did not affect human natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity in vitro, and nitric oxide (NO) production in mouse macrophage cells, RAW264.7. Our observations suggests immunomodulatory potential of two retroviral peptide analogs.

Effect of lead exposure on the immune response of some occupationally exposed individuals

Lead is a ubiquitous pollutant in the industrial environment, which poses serious threats to human health. In the past 20 years increasing attention has been paid to the effects of lead exposure on health. This toxic metal alters the immune response of animals as well as humans. To study the immunological effects of occupational exposure to lead, we examined lymphocyte proliferation, natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity and interferon-gamma production with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of individuals occupationally exposed to lead. We selected three different groups of individuals exposed to lead: three-wheeler drivers (30), battery workers (34) and silver jewelery makers (20); and unexposed healthy volunteers (30) as control for comparison. Our results indicate that though lymphocyte proliferation to phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) is inhibited in lead exposed individuals as compared with unexposed volunteers, there is no correlation between inhibition of lymphocyte proliferation and blood lead level. NK cell cytotoxicity remains unaffected in individuals exposed to lead as compared with controls. On the other hand, we observed that interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) was significantly elevated in T cell mitogen, PHA, stimulated PBMCs culture supernatant of lead exposed individuals. We found significant positive correlation between blood lead levels and IFN-gamma produced in culture supernatant on stimulation with PHA. In brief, this study demonstrates that lead can affect the immune response of the occupationally exposed individuals such as three-wheeler drivers, battery reconditioning workers and silver jewelery makers.

Anticellular and immunosuppressive properties of ethanolic extract of Acorus calamus rhizome

Modulation of immune response to alleviate disease has been of interest since long. Plant extracts have been widely investigated for possible immunomodulatory properties. We have evaluated the anticellular and immunomodulatory properties of ethanolic extract of Acorus calamus rhizome. This extract inhibited proliferation of mitogen (phytohaemagglutinin; PHA) and antigen (purified protein derivative; PPD)-stimulated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). In addition, A. calamus extract inhibited growth of several cell lines of mouse and human origin. It also inhibited production of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-2 (IL-2) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). Intracytoplasmic interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) and expression of cell surface markers, CD16 and HLA-DR, on human PBMC, were not affected on treatment with A. calamus extract but CD25 expression was down regulated. Our study demonstrates the antiproliferative and immunosuppressive potential of ethanolic extract of A. calamus rhizome in vitro.