Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using Tamarix articulata leaf extract: an effective approach for attenuation of oxidative stress mediated diseases

A comprehensive investigation on alleviating oxidative stress and inflammation in hyperglycaemic conditions through in vitro experiments and computational analysis

Protein glycation, hyper-inflammatory reactions, and oxidative stress play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of numerous diseases. The current work evaluated the protective ability of ethyl alcohol extract of leaves from holy basil (Ocimum sanctum Linn) against inflammation, oxidative stress, glycation and advanced glycation endproducts formation. Various in vitro assays assessed prementioned properties of holy basil. In addition, molecular docking was conducted. The highest hydrogen peroxide reduction activity (72.7 %) and maximum percentage of DPPH scavenging (71.3 %) depicted its vigorous antioxidant abilities. Furthermore, it showed the most excellent protection against proteinase activity (67.247 %), prevention of denaturation of egg albumin (65.29 %), and BSA (bovine serum albumin) (68.87 %) with 600 µg/ml. Percent aggregation index (57.528 %), browning intensity (56.61 %), and amyloid structure (57.0 %) were all reduced significantly using 600 μg/ml of extract. Additionally, the antimicrobial potential was also confirmed. According to a molecular docking study, active leaf extract ingredients were found to bind with superoxide dismutase, catalase, and carbonic anhydrase. As a conclusion, O. sanctum has a variety of health-promoting properties that may reduce the severity of many diseases in diabetic patients. However, in order to ascertain the mechanisms of action of the components of its leaves in disease prevention, more thorough research based on pharmacological aspects is needed.

Optimization of silver nanoparticles synthesis via Plackett-Burman experimental design: in vitro assessment of their efficacy against oxidative stress-induced disorders

Nanoparticles possess remarkable biological activities owing to their small size and large surface-to-volume ratio. Given the increasing adoption of environmentally sustainable practices in silver nanoparticle (AgNP) fabrication, this study presents a simple lab-scale green synthesis of AgNPs using banana peels. Large amounts of banana peels are disposed off in Pakistan every day. As the fruit is available throughout the year and contains many active components with potent biological activities, we aimed to synthesize silver nanoparticles using its peel, through an energy-efficient and inexpensive route. The synthesis was optimized according to the Plackett-Burman design (PDB) of experiments, which helped identify significant factors and saved time and resources. For characterization, UV-Vis spectroscopy and SEM-EDX analysis were performed, revealing spherical particles in the 45-65 nm size range. To investigate functional groups, FT-IR analysis was performed, revealing the presence of N-C[double bond, length as m-dash]O amide I bonds of proteins, C-H bonds of tannins and C-O bonds involved in the capping and stabilization of nanoparticles. The free radical scavenging property of banana peel-mediated silver nanoparticles (BP-AgNPs) was studied against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and the antioxidant potential was found to be 79% at 500 μg mL-1 concentration. The efficacy of BP-AgNPs with respect to certain biological activities were studied through anti-inflammatory assays, which demonstrated better results compared to a standard drug, and an anti-glycation assay, wherein only 4% of AGEs were formed, demonstrating 96% of AGE inhibition in vitro. The findings not only demonstrated the effectiveness of the PBD approach but also highlighted the potent property of BP-AgNPs against disorders associated with oxidative stress.

Bio-inspired synthesis of silver nanoparticles usingSalsola imbricataand its application as antibacterial additive in glass ionomer cement

Nanotechnology has gained immense popularity and observed rapid development due to the remarkable physio-chemical properties of nanoparticles (NPs) and related nanomaterials. The green production of NPs has many benefits over traditional techniques because the current procedures are expensive, time-consuming, and involve harmful substances that limit their applicability. This study aimed to use a novel green source, theSalsola imbricata(SI) plant, which is commonly found in Central Asia and known for its medicinal properties as a reducing and stabilizing agent for the synthesis of AgNPs. The current study also utilized efficient statistical design, the Plackett-Burman Design (PBD) of Experiment method to synthesize the NPs. The characterization of NPs was carried out using UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The PBD results showed that only two out of four factorsi.e.AgNO3concentration and incubation time, were significant for the synthesis of SI-AgNPs. While remaining factors, incubation temperature and plant extract: AgNO3ratio were non-significant. The SEM analysis result showed that SI-AgNPs had a size of 20-50 nm. The SI-AgNPs demonstrated strong antibacterial activity against oral pathogens such asS. mutans and Lactobacillus acidophilus, with the highest efficacy observed at a concentration of 2 mg ml-1. The addition of SI-AgNPs in glass ionomer cement significantly increased the antibacterial activity of GIC againstS. mutans. Based on the results of the current study, the plant based AgNPs can be further evaluated in detail as alternate antimicrobial agent either alone or in combination with other antimicrobial agents for different dental applications.

A systematic review on green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using plants extract and their bio-medical applications

Nanoparticles have recently become considered as a crucial player in contemporary medicine, with therapeutic uses ranging from contrast agents in imaging to carriers for the transport of drugs and genes into a specific target. Nanoparticles have the ability to have more precise molecular interactions with the human body in order to target specific cells and tissues with minimal adverse effects and maximal therapeutic outcomes. With the least number of side effects and the greatest possible therapeutic benefit, nanoparticles can target particular cells and tissues through more precise molecular interactions with the human body. The majority of global public health problems are now treated with green synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), which substantially affect the fundamental structure of DNA and proteins and thus display their antimicrobial action. AgNPs can inhibit the proliferation of tumor cells and induce oxidative stress. By inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor (HIF)-1, pro-inflammatory mediators generated by silver nanoparticles are reduced, mucin hypersecretion is lessened, and gene activity is subsequently regulated to prevent infections. The biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using various plants and their applications in antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic activities have been extensively discussed in this article. Also, because only natural substances are utilized in the manufacturing process, the particles that are created naturally are coated, stabilized, and play a vital role in these biomedical actions. The characterization of AgNPs, possibility of preparing AgNPSs with different shapes using biological method and their impact on functions and toxicities, impact of size, shape and other properties on AgNPs functions and toxicity profiles, limitations, and future prospects of green-mediated AgNPs have also been reported in this study. The major goal of this study is to provide readers with a comprehensive, informed, and up-to-date summary of the various AgNPs production and characterization methods and their under-investigational antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer, antidiabetic, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. This review provides instructions and suggestions for additional studies based on AgNPs. This evaluation also pushes researchers to look into natural resources like plant parts in order to create useful nanobiotechnology.

Phytochemical and pharmacological properties of the genus Tamarix: a comprehensive review

The genus Tamarix in the Tamaricaceae family consists of more than 100 species of halophyte plants worldwide that are mainly used to improve saline-alkali land and for coastal windbreaks, sand fixation, and afforestation in arid areas. A considerable number of species in this genus are also used as traditional medicines to treat various human diseases, especially in Asian and African countries. This review presents a comprehensive summary of 655 naturally occurring compounds derived from the genus Tamarix, categorized into flavonoids (18.0%), phenols (13.9%), tannins (9.3%), terpenoids (10.5%), essential oils (31.0%), and others (17.3%). The investigation revealed that the crude extracts and phytochemicals of this genus exhibited significant therapeutic potential, including anti-inflammatory, anti-Alzheimer, anticancer, antidiabetic, antibacterial, and antifungal activities. Six species of Tamarix have anticancer effects by causing cancer cell death, inducing autophagy, and stopping cell division. Seven species from the same genus have the potential for treating diabetes by inhibiting α-glycosidase activity, suppressing human islet amyloid polypeptide, regulating blood glucose levels, and modulating autophagy or inflammation. The focus on antibacterial and antidiabetic effects is due to the presence of volatile oil and flavonoid components. Extensive research has been conducted on the biological activity of 30 constituents, including 15 flavonoids, 5 phenols, 3 terpenoids, 1 tannin, and 6 others. Therefore, future research should thoroughly study the mechanisms of action of these and similar compounds. This is the most comprehensive review of the phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of Tamarix species, with a critical assessment of the current state of knowledge.

Potential in-vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of Martynia annua extract mediated Phytosynthesis of MnO2 nanoparticles

The present research work describes the phyto-synthesis of Manganese dioxide nanoparticles (MnO2NPs) from the reduction of potassium permanganate using Martynia annua (M.annua) plant extract. From the literature review, we clearly understood the M.annua plant has anti-inflammatory activity. Manganese dioxides are important materials due to their wide range of applications. Their increased surface area gives them distinct capabilities, as it increases their mechanical, magnetic, optical, and catalytic qualities, allowing them to be used in more pharmaceutical applications. A detailed review of literature highlighting the issues related to this present work and its knowledge gap that none of the inflammatory activities had been done by MnO2 NPs synthesized from M.annua plant extract. So we selected this study. The product MnO2 NPs showed the wavelength centre at 370 nm and was monitored by UV-Vis spectra. The wave number around 600 cm-1 has to the occurrence of O-Mn-O bonds of pure MnO2 confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy. Transmission electron microscopy images showed the morphology of MnO2 NPs as spherical-shaped particles with average sizes at 7.5 nm. The selected area electron diffraction analysis exhibits the crystalline nature of MnO2 NPs. The obtained MnO2 NPs showed potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity was compared to the plant extract. The synthesized MnO2 NPs have a large number of potential applications in the field of pharmaceutical industries. In the future, we isolate the phytocompounds present in the M.annua plant extract and conduct a study against corona virus. MnO2 produces manganese (III) oxide and oxygen, which increases fire hazard. But further research is required to understand their environmental behaviour and safety.

Molecular marker identification, antioxidant, antinociceptive, and anti-inflammatory responsiveness of malonic acid capped silver nanoparticle

Nano-sized silver has drawn a great deal of attention in the field of health sciences owing to its remarkable therapeutic applications. Interestingly, the method applied to synthesize nanoparticles and the choice of reagents considerably influence their therapeutic potential and toxicities. Current research has explored the toxicity, anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, and antioxidant responses of the malonic acid-capped silver nanoparticles (MA-AgNPs (C) by using sodium borohydride as a reducing agent at low temperatures by employing both in vitro and in vivo approaches. Furthermore, it has highlighted the synergistic effect of these novel compounds with conventional anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents. Acute and sub-acute toxicity analysis performed following OECD guidelines showed that the studied MA-AgNPs (C) are safer, and prominent toxic signs have not been detected at the highest studied dose of 2,000 mg/kg. Cytotoxicity evaluation through brine shrimp lethality revealed 20% lethality at the highest concentration of 169.8 μg/mL. Significantly, positive anti-inflammatory and analgesic responses alone as well as synergism with the standard were identified through in vitro as well as in vivo methods which were more potent at a lower dose (200 mg/kg). Notably synergistic outcomes were more pronounced than individual ones, indicating their prominent effect as a feasible drug delivery system. IL-6 and TNF-α assessment in excised paw tissue through RTPCR technique further supported their anti-inflammatory potential. DPPH assay revealed eminent in vitro antioxidant activity which was further corroborated by in vivo antioxidant assessment through evaluation of SOD in excised paw tissue.

Green Extracts with Metal-based Nanoparticles for Treating Inflammatory Diseases: A Review

Globally, high death rates and poor quality of life are caused mainly by inflammatory diseases. Corticosteroids, which may have systemic side effects and would enhance the risk of infection, are the common forms of therapy. The field of nanomedicine has created composite nanoparticles that carry a pharmacological carrier and target ligands for distribution to sites of inflammation with less systemic toxicity. However, their relatively large size often causes systemic clearance. An interesting approach is metal-based nanoparticles that naturally reduce inflammation. They are made not only to be small enough to pass through biological barriers but also to allow label-free monitoring of their interactions with cells. The following literature review discusses the mechanistic analysis of the anti-inflammatory properties of several metal-based nanoparticles, including gold, silver, titanium dioxide, selenium, and zinc oxide. Current research focuses on the mechanisms by which nanoparticles infiltrate cells and the anti-inflammatory techniques using herbal extracts-based nanoparticles. Additionally, it provides a brief overview of the literature on many environmentally friendly sources employed in nanoparticle production and the mechanisms of action of various nanoparticles.

Role of Nanoparticle-Conjugates and Nanotheranostics in Abrogating Oxidative Stress and Ameliorating Neuroinflammation

Oxidative stress is a deteriorating condition that arises due to an imbalance between the reactive oxygen species and the antioxidant system or defense of the body. The key reasons for the development of such conditions are malfunctioning of various cell organelles, such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi complex, as well as physical and mental disturbances. The nervous system has a relatively high utilization of oxygen, thus making it particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress, which eventually leads to neuronal atrophy and death. This advances the development of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration-associated disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, dementia, and other memory disorders. It is imperative to treat such conditions as early as possible before they worsen and progress to irreversible damage. Oxidative damage can be negated by two mechanisms: improving the cellular defense system or providing exogenous antioxidants. Natural antioxidants can normally handle such oxidative stress, but they have limited efficacy. The valuable features of nanoparticles and/or nanomaterials, in combination with antioxidant features, offer innovative nanotheranostic tools as potential therapeutic modalities. Hence, this review aims to represent novel therapeutic approaches like utilizing nanoparticles with antioxidant properties and nanotheranostics as delivery systems for potential therapeutic applications in various neuroinflammation- and neurodegeneration-associated disease conditions.

Potential Therapeutic Targets of Formononetin, a Type of Methoxylated Isoflavone, and Its Role in Cancer Therapy through the Modulation of Signal Transduction Pathways

Cancer is one of the main causes of death in all developed and developing countries. Various factors are involved in cancer development and progression, including inflammation and alterations in cellular processes and signaling transduction pathways. Natural compounds have shown health-promoting effects through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, having an important role in the inhibition of cancer growth. In this regard, formononetin, a type of isoflavone, plays a significant role in disease management through the modulation of inflammation, angiogenesis, cell cycle, and apoptosis. Furthermore, its role in cancer management has been proven through the regulation of different signal transduction pathways, such as the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT 3), Phosphatidyl inositol 3 kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt), and mitogen activating protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. The anticancer potential of formononetin has been reported against various cancer types, such as breast, cervical, head and neck, colon, and ovarian cancers. This review focuses on the role of formononetin in different cancer types through the modulation of various cell signaling pathways. Moreover, synergistic effect with anticancer drugs and methods to improve bioavailability are explained. Thus, detailed studies based on clinical trials are required to explore the potential role of formononetin in cancer prevention and treatment.

Biosynthesized Ag nanoparticles on urea-based periodic mesoporous organosilica enhance galegine content in Galega

The biological approach for synthesizing nanoparticles (NPs) using plant extracts is an efficient alternative to conventional physicochemical methods. Galegine, isolated from Galega (Galega officinalis L.), has anti-diabetic properties. In the present study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) loaded onto urea-based periodic mesoporous organosilica (AgNPs/Ur-PMO) were bio-synthesized using G. officinalis leaf extract. The synthesized NPs were characterized and confirmed via analysis methods. Different concentrations of biosynthesized AgNPs/Ur-PMO nanoparticles (0, 1, 5, 10, and 20 mg L^-1) were used as elicitors in cell suspension culture (CSC) of G. officinalis. The callus cells from hypocotyl explants were treated at their logarithmic growth phase (8^th d) and were collected at time intervals of 24, 72, 120, and 168 h. The viability and growth of cells were reduced (by 17% and 35%, respectively) at higher concentrations and longer treatments of AgNPs/Ur-PMO; however, the contents of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were increased (1.23 and 3.01 fold, respectively in comparison with the control average). The highest total phenolic (2.43 mg g^-1 dry weight) and flavonoid (2.22 mg g^-1 dry weight) contents were obtained 168 h after treatment with 10 mg L^-1 AgNPs/Ur-PMO. An increasing tendency in the antioxidant enzyme activities was also observed in all the elicitor concentrations. Treatment with AgNPs/Ur-PMO (in particular 5 mg L^-1 for 120 h) significantly enhanced the galegine content (up to 17.42 mg g^-1) about 1.80 fold compared with the control. The results suggest that AgNPs/Ur-PMO can be used as an effective elicitor for enhancing galegine production in the CSC of G. officinalis. KEY POINTS: • The green biosynthesis of AgNPs/Ur-PMO was done using G. officinalis leaf extract • Its toxicity as an elicitor increased with increasing concentration and treatment time • AgNPs/Ur-PMO significantly increased the antioxidant capacity and galegine content.

The Potential Role of Apigenin in Cancer Prevention and Treatment

Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide. In spite of advances in the treatment of cancer, currently used treatment modules including chemotherapy, hormone therapy, radiation therapy and targeted therapy causes adverse effects and kills the normal cells. Therefore, the goal of more effective and less side effects-based cancer treatment approaches is still at the primary position of present research. Medicinal plants or their bioactive ingredients act as dynamic sources of drugs due to their having less side effects and also shows the role in reduction of resistance against cancer therapy. Apigenin is an edible plant-derived flavonoid that has received significant scientific consideration for its health-promoting potential through modulation of inflammation, oxidative stress and various other biological activities. Moreover, the anti-cancer potential of apigenin is confirmed through its ability to modulate various cell signalling pathways, including tumor suppressor genes, angiogenesis, apoptosis, cell cycle, inflammation, apoptosis, PI3K/AKT, NF-κB, MAPK/ERK and STAT3 pathways. The current review mainly emphases the potential role of apigenin in different types of cancer through the modulation of various cell signaling pathways. Further studies based on clinical trials are needed to explore the role of apigenin in cancer management and explain the possible potential mechanisms of action in this vista.

Therapeutic Potential of Ajwa Dates (Phoenix dactylifera) Extract in Prevention of Benzo(a)pyrene-Induced Lung Injury through the Modulation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Cell Signalling Molecules

Chronic respiratory diseases are a leading cause of lung-related death worldwide. The vital factors causing lung pathogenesis include consistent exposure to tobacco smoke, air pollution, and occupational risks. Regarding the significant morbidity and mortality linked to lung pathogenesis, there are neither conclusive treatments nor wholly preventive strategies. In the present study, the protective mechanism of Ajwa date extract (ADE), on Benzopyrene [B(a)P]-induced lung injury in animal models was investigated using antioxidant, lipid peroxidation, anti-inflammatory activities, angiogenesis, histopathological studies, and apoptosis assays. B(a)P treatment significantly decreased the level of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase (Cat) (13.4 vs. 24.7 U/mg protein), Superoxide dismutase (SOD) (38.5 vs. 65.7 U/mg protein), Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) (42.4 vs. 57.3 U/mg protein) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (49.8 vs. 98.7 nM) as compared to the treatment group (p < 0.05). B(a)P treatment led to increased expression of pro-inflammatory markers such as TNF-α (88.5 vs. 72.6 pg/mL), IFN-γ (4.86 vs. 3.56 pg/mL), interleukin-6 (IL-6) (109.6 vs. 85.4 pg/mL) and CRP (1.84 vs. 0.94 ng/mL) as compared to the treatment group (p < 0.05). The data shows a significant increase in lipid peroxidation and angiogenesis factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) by B(a)P treatment (p < 0.05). However, ADE treatment showed an improvement of these factors. In addition, ADE treatment significantly ameliorated histopathological changes, collagen fiber deposition, and expression pattern of VEGF and Bax proteins. Furthermore, the flow cytometry data demonstrated that B(a)P intoxication enhanced the apoptosis ratio, which was significantly improved with ADE treatment. Finally, we may infer that Phyto-constituents of ADE have the potential to protect against B(a)P-induced lung pathogenesis. Therefore, Ajwa dates might be used to develop a possible potent alternative therapy for lung pathogenesis.

Bell Shape Curves of Hemolysis Induced by Silver Nanoparticles: Review and Experimental Assay

The hemolytic activity assay is a versatile tool for fast primary toxicity studies. This work presents a systematic study of the hemolytic properties of ArgovitTM silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) extensively studied for biomedical applications. The results revealed an unusual and unexpected bell-shaped hemolysis curve for human healthy and diabetic donor erythrocytes. With the decrease of pH from 7.4 and 6.8 to 5.6, the hemolysis profiles for AgNPs and AgNO3 changed dramatically. For AgNPs, the bell shape changed to a step shape with a subsequent sharp increase, and for AgNO3 it changed to a gradual increase. Explanations of these changes based on the aggregation of AgNPs due to the increase of proton concentration were suggested. Hemolysis of diabetic donor erythrocytes was slightly higher than that of healthy donor erythrocytes. The meta-analysis revealed that for only one AgNPs formulation (out of 48), a bell-shaped hemolysis profile was reported, but not discussed. This scarcity of data was explained by the dominant goal of studies consisting in achieving clinically significant hemolysis of 5-10%. Considering that hemolysis profiles may be bell-shaped, it is recommended to avoid extrapolations and to perform measurements in a wide concentration interval in hemolysis assays.

Role of Ajwa Date Fruit Pulp and Seed in the Management of Diseases through In Vitro and In Silico Analysis

Simple Summary

Most diseases result in an imbalance of antioxidant defense, inflammatory responses, and membrane permeabilization. The current therapeutic modules of disease prevention are not fully effective and have some adverse effects on physiological parameters. In this vista, medicinal plants and their active compounds have proven to be effective against disease prevention and treatment. Ajwa dates have high nutritional value and are reported to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor properties. In the current in vitro study, Ajwa fruit pulp and seed extract were found to have strong antioxidant properties, stabilize the RBC membrane, and have a good protective capacity against protein denaturation. Besides this, the seed extract prevents glucose-mediated browning of BSA as well as inhibiting the development of cross-amyloid and AGEs formations. Molecular docking results confirm the interaction between functional residues of antioxidant enzymes and components of Ajwa fruit pulp and seed contents. Therefore, the consumption of Ajwa dates can be beneficial in disease prevention and treatment. However, more detailed study is required based on pharmacological aspects to determine the mechanisms of action of Ajwa dates’ components in disease prevention.

Abstract

This study investigated the health-promoting activities of methanolic extracts of Ajwa date seed and fruit pulp extracts through in vitro studies. These studies confirmed potential antioxidant, anti-hemolytic, anti-proteolytic, and anti-bacterial activities associated with Ajwa dates. The EC₅₀ values of fruit pulp and seed extracts in methanol were reported to be 1580.35 ± 0.37 and 1272.68 ± 0.27 µg/mL, respectively, in the DPPH test. The maximum percentage of hydrogen peroxide-reducing activity was 71.3 and 65.38% for both extracts at 600 µg/mL. Fruit pulp and seed extracts inhibited heat-induced BSA denaturation by 68.11 and 60.308%, heat-induced hemolysis by 63.84% and 58.10%, and hypersalinity-induced hemolysis by 61.71% and 57.27%, and showed the maximum anti-proteinase potential of 56.8 and 51.31% at 600 μg/mL, respectively. Seed and fruit pulp inhibited heat-induced egg albumin denaturation at the same concentration by 44.31 and 50.84%, respectively. Ajwa seed showed minimum browning intensity by 63.2%, percent aggregation index by 64.2%, and amyloid structure by 63.8% at 600 μg/mL. At 100 mg/mL, Ajwa seed extract exhibited good antibacterial activity. Molecular docking analysis showed that ten active constituents of Ajwa seeds bind with the critical antioxidant enzymes, catalase (1DGH) and superoxide dismutase (5YTU). The functional residues involved in such interactions include Arg72, Ala357, and Leu144 in 1DGH, and Gly37, Pro13, and Asp11 in 5YTU. Hence, Ajwa dates can be used to develop a suitable alternative therapy in various diseases, including diabetes and possibly COVID-19-associated complications.